Modern aerospace systems rely heavily on legacy platforms and their derivatives. Historical examples show that after a vehicle design is frozen and delivered to a customer, successive upgrades are often made to fulfill changing requirements. Current practices of adapting to emerging needs with derivative designs, retrofits, and upgrades are often reactive and ad-hoc, resulting in performance and cost penalties. Recent DoD acquisition policies have addressed this problem by establishing a general paradigm for design for lifelong evolution. However, there is a need for a unified, practical design approach that considers the lifetime evolution of an aircraft concept by incorporating future requirements and technologies. This research proposes a systematic approach with which the decision makers can evaluate the value and risk of a new aircraft development program, including potential derivative development opportunities. The proposed Evaluation of Lifelong Vehicle Evolution (EvoLVE) method is a two- or multi-stage representation of the aircraft design process that accommodates initial development phases as well as follow-on phases. One of the key elements of this method is the Stochastic Programming with Recourse (SPR) technique, which accounts for uncertainties associated with future requirements. The remedial approach of SPR in its two distinctive problem-solving steps is well suited to aircraft design problems where derivatives, retrofits, and upgrades have been used to fix designs that were once but no longer optimal. The solution approach of SPR is complemented by the Risk-Averse Strategy Selection (RASS) technique to gauge risk associated with vehicle evolution options. In the absence of a full description of the random space, a scenario-based approach captures the randomness with a few probable scenarios and reveals implications of different future events. Last, an interactive framework for decision-making support allows simultaneous navigation of the current and future design space with a greater degree of freedom. A cantilevered beam design problem was set up and solved using the SPR technique to showcase its application to an engineering design setting. The full EvoLVE method was conducted on a notional multi-role fighter based on the F/A-18 Hornet.

La conception d'un système électrique est une tâche très complexe qui relève d’expertises dans différents domaines de compétence. Dans un contexte compétitif où l’avance technologique est un facteur déterminant, l’industrie cherche à réduire les temps d'étude et à fiabiliser les solutions trouvées par une approche méthodologique rigoureuse fournissant une solution optimale systémique.Il est alors nécessaire de construire des modèles et de mettre au point des méthodes d'optimisation compatibles avec ces préoccupations. En effet, l’optimisation unitaire de sous-systèmes sans prendre en compte les interactions ne permet pas d'obtenir un système optimal. Plus le système est complexe plus le travail est difficile et le temps de développement est important car il est difficile pour le concepteur d'appréhender le système dans toute sa globalité. Il est donc nécessaire d'intégrer la conception des composants dans une démarche systémique et globale qui prenne en compte à la fois les spécificités d’un composant et ses relations avec le système qui l’emploie.Analytical Target Cascading est une méthode d'optimisation multi niveaux de systèmes complexes. Cette approche hiérarchique consiste à décomposer un système complexe en sous-systèmes, jusqu’au niveau composant dont la conception relève d’algorithmes d'optimisation classiques. La solution optimale est alors trouvée par une technique de coordination qui assure la cohérence de tous les sous-systèmes. Une première partie est consacrée à l'optimisation de composants électriques. L'optimisation multi niveaux de systèmes complexes est étudiée dans la deuxième partie où une chaîne de traction électrique est choisie comme exemple / The design of an electrical system is a very complex task which needs experts from various fields of competence. In a competitive environment, where technological advance is a key factor, industry seeks to reduce study time and to make solutions reliable by way of a rigorous methodology providing a systemic solution.Then, it is necessary to build models and to develop optimization methods which are suitable with these concerns. Indeed, the optimization of sub-systems without taking into account the interaction does not allow to achieve an optimal system. More complex the system is more the work is difficult and the development time is important because it is difficult for the designer to understand and deal with the system in its complexity. Therefore, it is necessary to integrate the design components in a systemic and holistic approach to take into account, in the same time, the characteristics of a component and its relationship with the system it belongs to.Analytical Target Cascading is a multi-level optimization method for handling complex systems. This hierarchical approach consists on the breaking-down of a complex system into sub-systems, and component where their optimal design is ensured by way of classical optimization algorithms. The optimal solution of the system must be composed of the component's solutions. Then a coordination strategy is needed to ensure consistency of all sub-systems. First, the studied and proposed optimization algorithms are tested and compared on the optimization of electrical components. The second part focuses on the multi-level optimization of complex systems. The optimization of railway traction system is taken as a test case

This research presents a systematic and iterative procedure, as well as theoretical study, on expository sermon construction. The basic approach to sermon design involves the treatment of this subject matter as a design problem, utilizing advanced methodology in engineering design. This includes the modeling technique, the flow-chart method, and the optimization theory. In addition, we use heuristics as the search engine for seeking intelligent and efficient optimum design solutions. The heuristics can best be compared to the "artificial intelligence" or the "wisdom bank," involving six sources of wisdom; these include: talents, gifts, creativity, knowledge, experience and spiritual insights. The results represented in this thesis are believed to have demonstrated original findings in the following areas. First, the subject matter is found to be of a design nature, sharing the common characteristics of a general class of the design discipline, namely, having a 3-stage iterative procedure of the ABA' model. Secondly, a mathematical as well as physical model of the sermon design problem is developed in this study, using both homiletic and hermeneutic principles. The human body is used as the physical model, making it possible for simple visualization of the sermon structure and for performance evaluation. A mathematical model is found to be the "Heuristic Combinatorial Optimization Problem" and consists of eight design variables. Although it is not yet possible to develop a computer-aided protocol to seek solutions, an alternative approach called the "Web-Chart Method" can potentially be adaptable to an interactive computer system in the future. It serves as a two-dimensional "design chart" on paper, in which iterative procedures can be performed manually. The advantage is that the designer can direct his or her heuristic search for optimum solutions with the help of a number of design tools, including the "Insight-Recording Sheet" and the "Analogical Analysis Chart." With these tools, the designer has, at his or her disposal, the ability to search for solutions in sermon design, while still maintaining a global view with all the design variables controlled for. In this research, the principles of combinatorial heuristics applicable to the field of optimum design of expository sermons have been described. They are based on heuristic combinatorial optimization methods in the engineering design field with refinements geared to the homiletic as well as hermeneutic nature of the problem. The approaches represented here would allow a designer to utilize resources that are not otherwise available and/or are not easily manageable. With these research results, one would be able to design sermons innovatively and optimally in a systematic and heuristic-guided manner. Further extension of this work would lead to a new field of research and development in the computer-aided design of expository sermons. Key words: preaching; homiletics; expository preaching; design for preaching; sermon construction; computer-aided sermon design; sermon design optimization; heuristic sermon design; heuristic sermon optimization; heuristic combinatorial optimization. / Philosophy, Practical and Systematic Theology / D. Th.(Practical Theology)

A l’heure où la distribution de l’énergie électrique reste encore en discussion pour les nouvelles générations d’avions de transports civils ou militaires, une remise en cause du niveau des tensions continues disponibles pourrait porter les bus de tension de 270Vdc à 540Vdc. De fait, les équipementiers devront proposer des produits facilement adaptables à ces deux niveaux de tension. Par ailleurs, la course au rendement nécessite de revoir les systèmes actuels en proposant des versions plus compactes, fonctionnant à des meilleurs niveaux de rendement. L’atteinte de ces objectifs peut passer par une rupture technologique qui devrait s’opérer dans le domaine de la conversion d’énergie avec l’avènement, d’une part, des composants « grand gap », d’autre part, l’exploitation de structures innovantes de convertisseurs de puissance autore configurables. Les systèmes associant plusieurs convertisseurs et plusieurs machines, appelés communément Systèmes Multi-Convertisseurs Multi-Machines (SMCMM), jouent également un rôle prépondérant grâce aux avantages qu’ils présentent tels que, la modularité, la sûreté et l’accroissement de puissance. Néanmoins, si a priori, l’innovation technologique porte sur le convertisseur statique, le rendement d’un système électromécanique alliant convertisseur et machine ne correspond pas en général au produit des rendements de chacun des composants qui le constituent. En effet, le fonctionnement global fait apparaître de nouvelles problématiques. Dans ce contexte, la ligne directrice de ces travaux de recherche porte sur une méthodologie générale et le développement d’outils qui permettent d’étudier ces systèmes dans leur globalité. L’enjeu scientifique de cette étude consiste à adapter au mieux la machine à son convertisseur, optimiser la qualité du couple (amplitude et ondulations), donc à dimensionner et optimiser une machine qui réponde non seulement à la fonction principale visée par l’application, produire un couple mécanique à une vitesse donnée, mais qui satisfasse aussi une, voire plusieurs fonctionnalités requises pour l’utilisation d’onduleurs reconfigurables en tension. Afin de constituer une palette d’outils qui permettra de développer une méthodologie générale d’analyse des SMCMM, un outil de génération et de caractérisation systématique des bobinages et des aimants permanents est développé. Ce premier outil couplé à un modèle de type champ, basé sur la résolution analytique des équations du champ magnétique, est capable de fournir les performances électromagnétiques de la machine en fonction des critères du concepteur. Ensuite, un second outil qui permet d’appliquer la théorie d’une vision de conception par l’adéquation des sources du champ dans une machine, est développé. Nous pouvons alors rechercher la possibilité de maximiser le couple en adaptant, soit les bobinages, soit les aimants permanents. Pour étendre les précédents résultats à un cas général, un problème d’optimisation est formulé. Pour cela, un problème inverse à variables mixtes, relations complexes et non linéaires, est résolu avec un algorithme de type « boîte noire ». Les travaux se focalisent ensuite sur l’intégration de la fonction coupleur magnétique, puis sur la mise en évidence des conditions de fonctionnement optimal d’une machine synchrone à aimants permanents montés en surface et à double étoile (MSAPDE), alimentée par deux convertisseurs en parallèle reconfigurables en tension à commande entrelacée. Cette démarche est une première approche concrète de l’intégration machine convertisseur. Les courants induits dans les parties conductrices de la machine en mouvement sont modélisés afin de vérifier en fonction de la fréquence, leurs effets sur la fonction de coupleur magnétique. Finalement, après des simulations numériques qui permettent d’analyser et de classifier les avantages et les inconvénients de plusieurs solutions de machines, la réalisation de deux démonstrateurs de MSAPDE à coupleur intégré est initiée. / At the moment, distribution of electrical power is still being discussed for the new generations of civil and military aircraft. Level of DC voltage available is challenging and could take voltage from 270Vdc to 540Vdc. Hence, equipment suppliers must propose products easily adaptable to these two voltage levels. Otherwise, the race for better performances requires the revision existing systems by offering more compact versions functioning at better efficiency levels. Achieving these goals may be through a technological breakthrough that should be operated in the field of energy conversion with advent of both components "high band gap", and the use of innovative structures of self-reconfigurable power converters. Systems that combine several converters and several machines, commonly called Multi-Converters Multi-Machines Systems (SMCMM), also play a prominent part thanks to their advantages such as, modularity, safety and increased power. Nevertheless, if in principle, technical innovation concerns with the static converter, the efficiency of an electromechanical system which combines machine and converter does not correspond generally to the efficiency product of each constituent component. Indeed, overall functioning reveals new problems. In this context, the guidelines for this research work focus on a general methodology and the development of tools in order to study these systems as a whole. The scientific challenge of this study consists in adapting a machine to its converter, optimizing the torque quality (amplitude and ripples), so to size and to optimize a machine that meets not only the main function covered by the application, i.e. to produce a mechanical torque at a given speed, but also satisfies one or several functionalities required for using reconfigurable voltage inverters. In order to provide a range of tools that will allow the development of a general methodology for SMCMM analysis, a tool for automatic generating and characterizing windings and permanent magnets has been developed. This first tool coupled with an analytical model of field type, based on solving equations of magnetic field, is able to provide electromagnetic performances of the machine according to the designer's criteria. A second tool which allows us to apply theory of a design vision by the field sources adequacy in a machine has been developed. Consequently, we can look for possibility to maximize torque by adapting either windings or permanent magnets. To extend previous results to a general case, an optimization problem is formulated. For this purpose, an inverse problem with mixed variables, complex and non-linear relations, is solved with a "black box" algorithm. The work focus on magnetic coupler function integration, on the identification of optimal operating conditions of a synchronous machine with surface-mounted permanent magnets (AP) and double star (MSAPDE), supplied by two reconfigurable parallel interleaved inverters. This approach is a first practical step into machineconverter integration. Eddy currents in the moving conductive parts of the machine are modeled in order to check their effects on the magnetic coupler function according to frequency. Finally, after numerical simulations which allow us to analyze and classify pros and cons of several machine solutions, the fulfillment of two MSAPDE demonstrators integrating magnetic coupler is initiated.

Esta Tese propõe uma nova ferramenta para Otimização Robusta Multiobjetivo por Análise de Intervalo Não Probabilística (Non-probabilistic Interval Analysis for Multiobjective Robust Design Optimization ou NPIA-MORDO). A ferramenta desenvolvida visa à otimização dos parâmetros concentrados de suspensão em um modelo veicular completo, submetido a uma manobra direcional percorrendo diferentes perfis de pista, a fim de garantir maior conforto e segurança ao motorista. O modelo multicorpo possui 15 graus de liberdade (15-GDL), dentre os quais onze pertencem ao veículo e assento, e quatro, ao modelo biodinâmico do motorista. A função multiobjetivo é composta por objetivos conflitantes e as suas tolerâncias, como a raiz do valor quadrático médio (root mean square ou RMS) da aceleração lateral e da aceleração vertical do assento do motorista, desenvolvidas durante a manobra de dupla troca de faixa (Double Lane Change ou DLC). O curso da suspensão e a aderência dos pneus à pista são tratados como restrições do problema de otimização. As incertezas são quantificadas no comportamento do sistema pela análise de intervalo não probabilística, por intermédio do Método dos Níveis de Corte-α (α-Cut Levels) para o nível α zero (de maior dispersão), e realizada concomitantemente ao processo de otimização multiobjetivo. Essas incertezas são aplicáveis tanto nos parâmetros do problema quanto nas variáveis de projeto. Para fins de validação do modelo, desenvolvido em ambiente MATLAB®, a trajetória do centro de gravidade da carroceria durante a manobra é comparada com o software CARSIM®, assim como as forças laterais e verticais dos pneus. Os resultados obtidos são exibidos em diversos gráficos a partir da fronteira de Pareto entre os múltiplos objetivos do modelo avaliado Os indivíduos da fronteira de Pareto satisfazem as condições do problema, e a função multiobjetivo obtida pela agregação dos múltiplos objetivos resulta em uma diferença de 1,66% entre os indivíduos com o menor e o maior valor agregado obtido. A partir das variáveis de projeto do melhor indivíduo da fronteira, gráficos são gerados para cada grau de liberdade do modelo, ilustrando o histórico dos deslocamentos, velocidades e acelerações. Para esse caso, a aceleração RMS vertical no assento do motorista é de 1,041 m/s² e a sua tolerância é de 0,631 m/s². Já a aceleração RMS lateral no assento do motorista é de 1,908 m/s² e a sua tolerância é de 0,168 m/s². Os resultados obtidos pelo NPIA-MORDO confirmam que é possível agregar as incertezas dos parâmetros e das variáveis de projeto à medida que se realiza a otimização externa, evitando a necessidade de análises posteriores de propagação de incertezas. A análise de intervalo não probabilística empregada pela ferramenta é uma alternativa viável de medida de dispersão se comparada com o desvio padrão, por não utilizar uma função de distribuição de probabilidades prévia e por aproximar-se da realidade na indústria automotiva, onde as tolerâncias são preferencialmente utilizadas. / This thesis proposes the development of a new tool for Non-probabilistic Interval Analysis for Multi-objective Robust Design Optimization (NPIA-MORDO). The developed tool aims at optimizing the lumped parameters of suspension in a full vehicle model, subjected to a double-lane change (DLC) maneuver throughout different random road profiles, to ensure comfort and safety to the driver. The multi-body model has 15 degrees of freedom (15-DOF) where 11-DOF represents the vehicle and its seat and 4-DOF represents the driver's biodynamic model. A multi-objective function is composed by conflicted objectives and their tolerances, like the root mean square (RMS) lateral and vertical acceleration in the driver’s seat, both generated during the double-lane change maneuver. The suspension working space and the road holding capacity are used as constraints for the optimization problem. On the other hand, the uncertainties in the system are quantified using a non-probabilistic interval analysis with the α-Cut Levels Method for zero α-level (the most uncertainty one), performed concurrently in the multi-objective optimization process. These uncertainties are both applied to the system parameters and design variables to ensure the robustness in results. For purposes of validation in the model, developed in MATLAB®, the path of the car’s body center of gravity during the maneuver is compared with the commercial software CARSIM®, as well as the lateral and vertical forces from the tires. The results are showed in many graphics obtained from the Pareto front between the multiple conflicting objectives of the evaluated model. The obtained solutions from the Pareto Front satisfy the conditions of the evaluated problem, and the aggregated multi-objective function results in a difference of 1.66% for the worst to the best solution. From the design variables of the best solution choose from the Pareto front, graphics are created for each degree of freedom, showing the time histories for displacements, velocities and accelerations. In this particular case, the RMS vertical acceleration in the driver’s seat is 1.041 m/s² and its tolerance is 0.631 m/s², but the RMS lateral acceleration in the driver’s seat is 1.908 m/s² and its tolerance is 0.168 m/s². The overall results obtained from NPIA-MORDO assure that is possible take into account the uncertainties from the system parameters and design variables as the external optimization loop is performed, reducing the efforts in subsequent evaluations. The non-probabilistic interval analysis performed by the proposed tool is a feasible choice to evaluate the uncertainty if compared to the standard deviation, because there is no need of previous well-known based probability distribution and because it reaches the practical needs from the automotive industry, where the tolerances are preferable.

Ce travail de thèse porte sur l’étude fondamentale de systèmes nano-électroniques,mesurés à très basse température. Nous avons réalisé des interféromètres électroniques àdeux chemins à partir d’électrons balistiques obtenus dans un gaz 2D d’électrons d’unehétéro-structure GaAs/AlGaAs. Nous montrons que la phase des électrons, et ainsileur état quantique,peut être contrôlée par des grilles électrostatiques. Ces dispositifsse révèlent être des candidats prometteurs pour la réalisation d’un qubit volant. Nousavons développé une simulation numérique évoluée d’un modèle de liaisons fortes à partirde transport quantique ballistique qui décrit toutes les découvertes expérimentales etnous apporte une connaissance approfondie sur les signatures expérimentales de cesdispositifs particuliers. Nous proposons des mesures complémentaires de ce système dequbit volants. Pour atteindre le but ultime, à savoir un qubit volant à un électron unique,nous avons assemblé la source à électron unique précédemment développée dans notreéquipe à un beam splitter électronique. Les électrons sont alors injectés depuis une boîtequantique à un train de boîte quantiques en mouvement. Ce potentiel électrostatique enmouvement est généré par des ondes acoustiques de surface créées par des transducteursinter-digités sur le substrat GaAs piézo-électrique. Nous avons étudié et optimisé chacunde ces composants fondamentaux nécessaires à la réalisation d’un beam splitter à électronunique et développé un procédé local et fiable de fabrication. Ce dispositif nous permet d’étudier les interactions électroniques pour des électrons isolés et pourra servir de basede mesure pour des expériences d’optique quantiques sur un système électronique del’état condensé. Enfin, nous avons développé un outil puissant de simulation du potentielélectrostatique à partir de la géométrie des grilles. Ceci permet d’optimiser la conceptiondes échantillons avant même leur réalisation. Nous proposons ainsi un prototype optimiséde beam splitter à électron unique. / This thesis contains the fundamental study of nano-electronic systems at cryogenictemperatures. We made use of ballistic electrons in a two-dimensional electron gasin a GaAs/AlGaAs heterostructure to form a real two-path electronic interferometerand showed how the phase of the electrons and hence their quantum state can becontrolled by means of electrostatic gates. The device represents a promising candidateof a flying qubit. We developed a sophisticated numerical tight-binding model based onballistic quantum transport, which reproduces all experimental findings and allows togain profound knowledge about the subtle experimental features of this particular device.We proposed further measurements with this flying qubit system. With the ultimate goalof building a single electron flying qubit, we combined the single electron source that hasbeen developed in our lab prior to this manuscript with an electronic beam splitter. Theelectrons are injected from static quantum dots into a train of moving quantum dots.This moving potential landscape is induced in the piezoelectric substrate of GaAs bysurface acoustic waves from interdigial transducers. We studied and optimized all keycomponents, which are necessary to build a single electron beam splitter and built up areliable local fabrication process. The device is capable of studying electron interactionson the single electron level and can serve as a measurement platform for quantum opticsexperiments in electronic solid state systems. Finally, we developed a powerful toolcapable of calculating the potential landscapes of any surface gate geometry, which canbe used as a fast feedback optimization tool for device design and proposed an optimizedprototype for the single electron beam splitter.

Esta Tese propõe uma nova ferramenta para Otimização Robusta Multiobjetivo por Análise de Intervalo Não Probabilística (Non-probabilistic Interval Analysis for Multiobjective Robust Design Optimization ou NPIA-MORDO). A ferramenta desenvolvida visa à otimização dos parâmetros concentrados de suspensão em um modelo veicular completo, submetido a uma manobra direcional percorrendo diferentes perfis de pista, a fim de garantir maior conforto e segurança ao motorista. O modelo multicorpo possui 15 graus de liberdade (15-GDL), dentre os quais onze pertencem ao veículo e assento, e quatro, ao modelo biodinâmico do motorista. A função multiobjetivo é composta por objetivos conflitantes e as suas tolerâncias, como a raiz do valor quadrático médio (root mean square ou RMS) da aceleração lateral e da aceleração vertical do assento do motorista, desenvolvidas durante a manobra de dupla troca de faixa (Double Lane Change ou DLC). O curso da suspensão e a aderência dos pneus à pista são tratados como restrições do problema de otimização. As incertezas são quantificadas no comportamento do sistema pela análise de intervalo não probabilística, por intermédio do Método dos Níveis de Corte-α (α-Cut Levels) para o nível α zero (de maior dispersão), e realizada concomitantemente ao processo de otimização multiobjetivo. Essas incertezas são aplicáveis tanto nos parâmetros do problema quanto nas variáveis de projeto. Para fins de validação do modelo, desenvolvido em ambiente MATLAB®, a trajetória do centro de gravidade da carroceria durante a manobra é comparada com o software CARSIM®, assim como as forças laterais e verticais dos pneus. Os resultados obtidos são exibidos em diversos gráficos a partir da fronteira de Pareto entre os múltiplos objetivos do modelo avaliado Os indivíduos da fronteira de Pareto satisfazem as condições do problema, e a função multiobjetivo obtida pela agregação dos múltiplos objetivos resulta em uma diferença de 1,66% entre os indivíduos com o menor e o maior valor agregado obtido. A partir das variáveis de projeto do melhor indivíduo da fronteira, gráficos são gerados para cada grau de liberdade do modelo, ilustrando o histórico dos deslocamentos, velocidades e acelerações. Para esse caso, a aceleração RMS vertical no assento do motorista é de 1,041 m/s² e a sua tolerância é de 0,631 m/s². Já a aceleração RMS lateral no assento do motorista é de 1,908 m/s² e a sua tolerância é de 0,168 m/s². Os resultados obtidos pelo NPIA-MORDO confirmam que é possível agregar as incertezas dos parâmetros e das variáveis de projeto à medida que se realiza a otimização externa, evitando a necessidade de análises posteriores de propagação de incertezas. A análise de intervalo não probabilística empregada pela ferramenta é uma alternativa viável de medida de dispersão se comparada com o desvio padrão, por não utilizar uma função de distribuição de probabilidades prévia e por aproximar-se da realidade na indústria automotiva, onde as tolerâncias são preferencialmente utilizadas. / This thesis proposes the development of a new tool for Non-probabilistic Interval Analysis for Multi-objective Robust Design Optimization (NPIA-MORDO). The developed tool aims at optimizing the lumped parameters of suspension in a full vehicle model, subjected to a double-lane change (DLC) maneuver throughout different random road profiles, to ensure comfort and safety to the driver. The multi-body model has 15 degrees of freedom (15-DOF) where 11-DOF represents the vehicle and its seat and 4-DOF represents the driver's biodynamic model. A multi-objective function is composed by conflicted objectives and their tolerances, like the root mean square (RMS) lateral and vertical acceleration in the driver’s seat, both generated during the double-lane change maneuver. The suspension working space and the road holding capacity are used as constraints for the optimization problem. On the other hand, the uncertainties in the system are quantified using a non-probabilistic interval analysis with the α-Cut Levels Method for zero α-level (the most uncertainty one), performed concurrently in the multi-objective optimization process. These uncertainties are both applied to the system parameters and design variables to ensure the robustness in results. For purposes of validation in the model, developed in MATLAB®, the path of the car’s body center of gravity during the maneuver is compared with the commercial software CARSIM®, as well as the lateral and vertical forces from the tires. The results are showed in many graphics obtained from the Pareto front between the multiple conflicting objectives of the evaluated model. The obtained solutions from the Pareto Front satisfy the conditions of the evaluated problem, and the aggregated multi-objective function results in a difference of 1.66% for the worst to the best solution. From the design variables of the best solution choose from the Pareto front, graphics are created for each degree of freedom, showing the time histories for displacements, velocities and accelerations. In this particular case, the RMS vertical acceleration in the driver’s seat is 1.041 m/s² and its tolerance is 0.631 m/s², but the RMS lateral acceleration in the driver’s seat is 1.908 m/s² and its tolerance is 0.168 m/s². The overall results obtained from NPIA-MORDO assure that is possible take into account the uncertainties from the system parameters and design variables as the external optimization loop is performed, reducing the efforts in subsequent evaluations. The non-probabilistic interval analysis performed by the proposed tool is a feasible choice to evaluate the uncertainty if compared to the standard deviation, because there is no need of previous well-known based probability distribution and because it reaches the practical needs from the automotive industry, where the tolerances are preferable.

Lors de l’exploration d’espace de conception, les données résultantes de la simulation d’un grand nombre d’alternatives de conception peuvent conduire à la surcharge d’information quand il s’agit de choisir une bonne solution de conception. Cette exploration d’espace de conception s’apparente à une méthode d’optimisation en conception multicritère mais en mode manuel pour lequel des outils appropriés à la visualisation de données multidimensionnelle sont employés. Pour le concepteur, un processus en trois phases – découverte, optimisation, sélection – est suivi selon un paradigme dit de Design by Shopping. Le fait de « parcourir » l’espace de conception permet de gagner en intuition sur les sous-espaces de solutions faisables et infaisables et sur les solutions offrant de bons compromis. Le concepteur apprend au cours de ces manipulations graphiques de données. La sélection d’une solution optimale se fait donc sur la base d’une décision dite informée. L’objectif de cette recherche est la performance des représentations graphiques pour l’exploration d’espace de conception, pour les trois phases du processus en Design by Shopping. Pour cela, cinq représentations graphiques, identifiées comme potentiellement performantes, sont testées à travers deux expérimentations. Dans la première, trente participants ont testé trois graphiques, pour la phase de sélection dans une situation multi-attribut, à travers trois scénarios de conception où une voiture doit être choisie parmi quarante selon des préférences énoncées. Pour cela, un indice de qualité est proposé pour calculer la qualité de la solution du concepteur pour un des trois scénarios définis, la solution optimale selon cet indice étant comparée à celles obtenues après manipulation des graphiques. Dans la deuxième expérimentation, quarante-deux concepteurs novices ont résolu deux problèmes de conception à l’aide de trois graphiques. Dans ce cas, la performance des graphiques est testée pour la prise de décision informée et pour les trois phases du processus dans une situation multi-objectif. Les résultats révèlent qu’un graphique est adapté à chacune des trois phases du Design by Shopping :: le graphique Scatter Plot Matrix pour la phase de découverte et pour la prise de décision informée, le graphique Simple Scatter pour la phase d’optimisation et le graphique Parallel Coordinate Plot pour la phase de sélection aussi bien dans une situation multi-attribut que multi-objectif. / In Design space exploration, the resulting data, from simulation of large amount of new design alternatives, can lead to information overload when one good design solution must be chosen. The design space exploration relates to a multi-criteria optimization method in design but in manual mode, for which appropriate tools to support multi-dimensional data visualization are employed. For the designer, a three-phase process - discovery, optimization, selection - is followed according to a paradigm called Design by Shopping. Exploring the design space helps to gain insight into both feasible and infeasible solutions subspaces, and into solutions presenting good trade-offs. Designers learn during these graphical data manipulations and the selection of an optimal solution is based on a so-called informed decision. The objective of this research is the performance of graphs for design space exploration according to the three phases of the Design by Shopping process. In consequence, five graphs, identified as potentially efficient, are tested through two experiments. In the first, thirty participants tested three graphs, in three design scenarios where one car must be chosen out of a total of forty, for the selection phase in a multi-attribute situation where preferences are enounced. A response quality index is proposed to compute the choice quality for each of the three given scenarios, the optimal solutions being compared to the ones resulting from the graphical manipulations. In the second experiment, forty-two novice designers solved two design problems with three graphs. In this case, the performance of graphs is tested for informed decision-making and for the three phases of the process in a multi-objective situation. The results reveal three efficient graphs for the design space exploration: the Scatter Plot Matrix for the discovery phase and for informed decision-making, the Simple Scatter Plot for the optimization phase and the Parallel Coordinate Plot for the selection phase in a multi-attribute as well as multi-objective situation.

Este trabalho consiste no desenvolvimento de uma metodologia de otimização multidisciplinar de projeto conceitual de aeronaves. O conceito de aeronave otimizada tem como base o estudo evolutivo de características das categorias imediatas àquela que se propõe. Como estudo de caso, foi otimizada uma aeronave de treinamento militar que faça a correta transição entre as fases de treinamento básico e avançado. Para o estabelecimento dos parâmetros conceituais esse trabalho integra técnicas de entropia estatística, desdobramento da função de qualidade (QFD), aritmética fuzzy e algoritmo genético (GA) à aplicação de otimização multidisciplinar ponderada de projeto (OMPP) como metodologia de projeto conceitual de aeronaves. Essa metodologia reduz o tempo e o custo de projeto quando comparada com as técnicas tradicionais existentes. / This work is concerned with the development of a methodology for multidisciplinary optimization of the aircraft conceptual design. The aircraft conceptual design optimization was based on the evolutionary simulation of the aircraft characteristics outlined by a QFD/Fuzzy arithmetic approach where the candidates in the Pareto front are selected within categories close to the target proposed. As a test case a military trainer aircraft was designed target to perform the proper transition from basic to advanced training. The methodology for conceptual aircraft design optimization implemented in this work consisted on the integration of techniques such statistical entropy, quality function deployment (QFD), arithmetic fuzzy and genetic algorithm (GA) to the weighted multidisciplinary design optimization (WMDO). This methodology proved to be objective and well balanced when compared with traditional design techniques.

A Otimização Multidisciplinar em Projeto (em inglês, Multidisciplinary Design Optimization - MDO) é uma ferramenta de projeto importante e versátil e seu uso está se expandindo em diversos campos da engenharia. O foco desta metodologia é unir disciplinas envolvidas no projeto para que trabalhem suas variáveis concomitantemente em um ambiente de otimização, para obter soluções melhores. É possível utilizar MDO em qualquer fase do projeto, seja a fase conceitual, preliminar ou detalhada, desde que os modelos numéricos sejam ajustados às necessidades de cada uma delas. Este trabalho descreve o desenvolvimento de um código de MDO para o projeto conceitual de asas flexíveis de aeronaves, com restrição quanto ao fenômeno denominado flutter. Como uma ferramenta para o projetista na fase conceitual, os modelos numéricos devem ser razoavelmente precisos e rápidos. O intuito deste estudo é analisar o uso de metamodelos para a previsão do flutter de asas de aeronaves no código de MDO, ao invés de um modelo convencional, o que pode alterar significativamente o custo computacional da otimização. Para este fim são avaliados três técnicas diferentes de metamodelagem, que foram escolhidas por representarem duas classes básicas de metamodelos, a classe de métodos de interpolação e a de métodos de aproximação. Para representá-las foram escolhidos o método de interpolação por funções de base radial e o método de redes neurais artificiais, respectivamente. O terceiro método, que é considerado um método híbrido dos dois anteriores, é chamado de redes neurais por funções de bases radiais e é uma tentativa de acoplar as características de ambos em um único metamodelo. Os metamodelos são preparados utilizando um código para solução aeroelástica baseado no método dos elementos finitos acoplado com um modelo aerodinâmico linear de faixas. São apresentados resultados de desempenho dos três metamodelos, de onde se pode notar que a rede neural artificial é a mais adequada para previsão de flutter. O processo de MDO é realizado com o uso de um algoritmo genético multi-objetivo baseado em não-dominância, cujos objetivos são a maximização da velocidade crítica de flutter e a minimização da massa estrutural. Dois estudos de caso são apresentados para avaliar o desempenho do código de MDO, revelando que o processo global de otimização realiza de fato a busca pela fronteira de Pareto. / The Multidisciplinary Design Optimization, MDO, is an important and versatile design tool and its use is spreading out in several fields of engineering. The focus of this methodology is to put together disciplines involved with the design to work all their variables concomitantly, at an optimization environment to obtain better solutions. It is possible to use MDO in any stage of the design process, that is in the conceptual, preliminary or detailed design, as long as the numerical models are fitted to the needs of each of these stages. This work describes the development of a MDO code for the conceptual design of flexible aircraft wings, with restrictions regarding the phenomenon called flutter. As a tool for the designer at the conceptual stage, the numerical models must be fairly accurate and fast. The aim of this study is to analyze the use of metamodels for the flutter prediction of aircraft wings in the MDO code, instead of a conventional model itself, what may affect significantly the computational cost of the optimization. For this purpose, three different metamodeling techniques have been evaluated, representing two basic metamodel classes, that are, the interpolation and the approximation class. These classes are represented by the radial basis function interpolation method and the artificial neural networks method, respectively. The third method, which is considered as a hybrid of the other two, is called radial basis function neural networks and is an attempt of coupling the features of both in single code. Metamodels are prepared using an aeroelastic code based on finite element model coupled with linear aerodynamics. Results of the three metamodels performance are presented, from where one can note that the artificial neural network is best suited for flutter prediction. The MDO process is achieved using a non-dominance based multi-objective genetic algorithm, whose objectives are the maximization of critical flutter speed and minimization of structural mass. Two case studies are presented to evaluate the performance of the MDO code, revealing that overall optimization process actually performs the search for the Pareto frontier.