Improving system decomposition method for application to multi-objective optimization of aircraft configuration design

In our opinion, traditional system decomposition method needs to be improved for better optimization of aircraft configuration design. We propose combining it with Pareto method so as to utilize the advantages of both methods. In the full paper, we describe our improved system decomposition method in much detail; here we give only a briefing. Traditional system decomposition method has to turn multiple objects into a single one and so only one optimal result will be obtained after optimization. Our improved system decomposition method can obtain a set of evenly spaced optimal solutions on a Pareto frontier. As an example, an integrated optimization design, taking into consideration both aerodynamic and stealth requirements simultaneously, for a wing-body was carried out. After optimization, a set of solutions on a Pareto frontier was obtained and so the design range of optimal shapes was broadened. The aerodynamic and stealth performances can be much improved through optimization with our improved system decomposition method. To give an idea of the magnitudes of improvements, we selected two optimal solutions on the Pareto frontier; optimal solutions A and B. For optimal solution A, the lift-drag ratio increased from 7.97 to 9.61, or an increase of 20.6%. For optimal solution B, the RCS (Radar Cross Section) decreased from 0.32 m² to 0.069 m², or an improvement of 78.4%.