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Cost-Benefit Analysis Of Error Reduction For Complex Systems, Robert A. Mcdonald
Cost-Benefit Analysis Of Error Reduction For Complex Systems, Robert A. Mcdonald
Robert A. McDonald
The cost-benefit tradeoff of analysis fidelity in complex systems analysis has been posed as an optimization problem providing quantitative guidance for investment in improving analysis. A nonlinear constrained optimizer to solve this problem has been integrated into an error tradeoff environment providing an intuitive tool for the decision maker to consider investment in fidelity at the same time as design decisions are considered. An example demonstrates the efficacy of the improved interface to enable fidelity improvement investment decisions.
Multidisciplinary Design Optimization Of An Extreme Aspect Ration Hale Uav, Bryan Morrisey, Robert A. Mcdonald
Multidisciplinary Design Optimization Of An Extreme Aspect Ration Hale Uav, Bryan Morrisey, Robert A. Mcdonald
Robert A. McDonald
Development of High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) aircraft systems is part of a vision for a low cost communications/surveillance capability. Applications of a multi payload aircraft operating for extended periods at stratospheric altitudes span military and civil genres and support battlefield operations, communications, atmospheric or agricultural monitoring, surveillance, and other disciplines that may currently require satellite-based infrastructure. The central goal of this research was the development of a multidisciplinary tool for analysis, design, and optimization of HALE UAVs, facilitating the study of a novel configuration concept. Applying design ideas stemming from a unique WWII-era project, a "pinned wing" HALE aircraft …
A User Friendly Interface For Gaussian Process Metamodeling, Collin R. Baukol, Robert A. Mcdonald, Nicholas Delmas
A User Friendly Interface For Gaussian Process Metamodeling, Collin R. Baukol, Robert A. Mcdonald, Nicholas Delmas
Robert A. McDonald
As research into metamodeling and using advanced metamodeling techniques continues, it is important to remember design engineers who need to use these advancements. Even experienced engineers may not be well versed in the material and mathematical background that is currently required to generate and fully comprehend advanced complex metamodels. A user friendly metamodeling environment is being developed to help bridge the gap that is currently growing between the research community and the design engineers. This tool allows users to easily create, modify, and assess the quality of metamodels.
Senior Design At Cal Poly: A Recipe For Success, Robert A. Mcdonald, Jordi Puig-Suari, Dave Esposto, Bruce Wright
Senior Design At Cal Poly: A Recipe For Success, Robert A. Mcdonald, Jordi Puig-Suari, Dave Esposto, Bruce Wright
Robert A. McDonald
The Aerospace Engineering Department at Cal Poly has, over the years, evolved a unique recipe for Senior Design. This recipe has been applied to the capstone Aircraft and Spacecraft design courses and will soon be extended to an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle design course. This recipe consists primarily of a year long design sequence with a great deal of participation from the region's aerospace industry. The Cal Poly recipe has proven to be both flexible and effective. The authors believe it could be adapted and applied in a similar manner at other institutions with a similar degree of success.
Underpowered Aircraft - Performance And Operational Possibilities, Andrew S. Ezzard, Michael R. Vallone, Robert A. Mcdonald
Underpowered Aircraft - Performance And Operational Possibilities, Andrew S. Ezzard, Michael R. Vallone, Robert A. Mcdonald
Robert A. McDonald
A unique configuration, known as an Underpowered Aircraft, allows for the modification of gliding flight vehicles for increased range and lower cost when compared with fully powered flight vehicles. Intentionally under-sizing the powerplant for a flight vehicle allows the designer to choose a powerplant that will not only perform the mission requirements, but will also provide the customer with the most cost effective solution, as some missions may not require fully powered flight. Specifically, the underpowered aircraft concept studied in this paper is a gliding flight aircraft that does not have enough power for climbing or level flight, but does …