The Use of Optimization Studies

Computational methods developed in structural mechanics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, shock physics, and many other fields of engineering can be an enormous aid to understanding the complex physical systems they simulate. Often, it is desired to use these simulations as virtual prototypes to obtain an optimized design for a particular system, or to develop confidence in performing predictions for systems that cannot be observed or tested directly. This effort seeks to enhance the utility of these computational simulations by enabling their use for a variety of iterative analyses, so that simulations may be used not just for single-point solutions, but also achieve broader impact in the areas of credible prediction and optimal design.

This allows analysts to address the fundamental engineering questions of foremost importance to our programs, such as

• "What is the best design?"

• "How safe is it?"

• "How much confidence do I have in my answer?" with respect to system performance objectives such as:

• Minimizing weight, cost, or defects;

• Limiting a critical temperature, stress, or vibration response;

• Maximizing performance, reliability, throughput, reconfigurability, agility, or design robustness

A systematic approach for addressing these questions will lead to higher confidence in our computational simulations, in turn leading to better designs and improved system performance. Moreover, a reduced dependence on physical testing can shorten the design cycle and reduce development costs.

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