ENHANCED MANEUVER AIRLOADS SIMULATION FOR THE AUTOMATED STRUCTURAL OPTIMIZATION SYSTEM - ASTROS*

Multidisciplinary design (MD) tools provide capability to perform system level trade studies. ASTROS1 is such a tool and has the capability to perform airframe (structural) optimization with respect to multidisciplinary air vehicle constraints. However, limitations in ASTROS' maneuver loads simulation are restricting its use. Application and development studies with ASTROS have highlighted interdisciplinary needs for airframe design. The U.S. Air Force has contracted Lockheed Martin Tactical Aircraft Systems and Universal Analytics to develop technology for versatile and reliable maneuver loads simulation in multidisciplinary design. Under this effort, ASTROS is providing a base for developments in aerodynamic model assembly from multiple linear and nonlinear data sources, centerline-symmetric or full-span aerodynamic and structural models, general asymmetric trim of steady maneuvers, and trim optimization of redundant control effectors.