Reliability-Based Optimization Considering Manufacturing and Operational Uncertainties

This paper presents approaches for integrating multidisciplinary optimization and probabilistic methods to perform reliability-based multidisciplinary optimization. The approaches are built into a framework that allows solution of optimization problems, wherein system parameters including dimensional tolerances, material properties, boundary conditions, loads, and model predictions are uncertain or variable. This approach directly supports quality engineering because it allows engineers to specify manufacturing tolerances required to achieve the desired product reliability, and it results in robust designs that are optimal over the range of variable conditions because it considers uncertainties during the optimization process. The basic reliability-based multidisciplinary optimization methodology has been demonstrated to design engine components, aircraft lap joints, and transport aircraft wings. Herein this methodology is reviewed and then the focus is on demonstrating a new framework that makes it possible to use these methods with commercial CAD/CAE tools and support commercial shape parameterization to enable shape optimization and consideration of manufacturing uncertainties.