Detail Part Optimization on the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter

*† ‡ § ** The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter (JSF) faced a substantial weight challenge during the design phase of the Short Take-off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) variant. Among the many weight reduction trade studies and initiatives executed during STOVL variant design, the F-35 Program applied structural optimization tools and methods to optimize load paths and sizing of structural detail parts to realize weight savings. The program applied topology, shape, and sizing optimization through finite element tools and focused on reducing the weight of compact fittings and flat metallic web panels. Parts with sufficient design freedom benefited substantially from methodical optimization. This paper outlines the optimization process employed on F-35 and its impact, providing several examples to illustrate process details.