We anticipate that by the end of Phase II, we will have matured the concept sufficiently to embed it and test it in NASA systems. An example program of interest is the Fundamental Aeronautics Program at NASA (including subsonic fixed wing, subsonic rotary wing, supersonics, and hypersonics programs). One of the major goals of the Fundamental Aeronautics Program is the inclusion of physics-based analysis in modern MDO tools, which is the particular innovation in VaC-CADO. This tool for design of unconventional aircraft will also enable NASA to analyze new concepts that revolutionize the aerodynamic performance and meet N+3 goals of NASA.
Several DOD groups, such as the AFRL conceptual design group under the Propulsion System Directorate, have been conducting research to develop novel conceptual design tools for analysis and design of new concepts. This becomes critical while acquiring new technology and helps guide the programs within DOD. VaC-CADO with its application to novel concepts will directly address this critical need. We have also been discussing this particular challenge of physics-based MDAO tools with several OEMs including Boeing and Lockheed, who have expressed considerable interest in this technology. Of immediate interest is the Advanced Vehicle Concepts Study where Boeing is evaluating Preferred Systems Concepts for passenger and cargo transport aircraft. And there are several other programs at Boeing that can greatly benefit from development of technologies that optimize aircraft design at the system level. This tool will also benefit academic researchers as well as smaller contractors and has great potential for commercialization.
More »