3.6.4 Discrete System Optimization Using Cost as an Independent Variable (CAIV) Techniques With Distributed Analysis Models

A design environment has been constructed to assist designers and analysts in performing concept studies and optimization based on distributed analysis to support cost as an independent variable (CAIV) studies. This environment uses application server‐based techniques to host distributed simulations and analysis tools. These components are then linked through a common client interface to build an integrated model. A set of unique design exploration tools provides the analyst with a decision support environment for performance, cost, and operational assessments. A design example based on this architecture is shown. This example illustrates discrete configuration selection of platform and sensor types based on a non‐gradient based optimization algorithm to defeat various threats given system cost constraints.