Aircraft Conceptual Design and Risk Analysis Using Physics-Based Noise Prediction

An approach was developed which allows for design studies of commercial aircraft using physics-based noise analysis methods while retaining the ability to perform the rapid tradeofi and risk analysis studies needed at the conceptual design stage. A prototype integrated analysis process was created for computing the total aircraft EPNL at the Federal Aviation Regulations Part 36 certiflcation measurement locations using physics-based methods for fan rotor-stator interaction tones and jet mixing noise. The methodology was then used in combination with design of experiments to create response surface equations (RSEs) for the engine and aircraft performance metrics, geometric constraints and takeofi and landing noise levels. In addition, Monte Carlo analysis was used to assess the expected variability of the metrics under the in∞uence of uncertainty, and to determine how the variability is afiected by the choice of engine cycle. Finally, the RSEs were used to conduct a series of proof-of-concept conceptual-level design studies demonstrating the utility of the approach. The study found that a key advantage to using physics-based analysis during conceptual design lies in the ability to assess the beneflts of new technologies as a function of the design to which they are applied. The greatest di‐culty in implementing physics-based analysis proved to be the generation of design geometry at a su‐cient level of detail for high-fldelity analysis.