Master's Thesis Proposal
Chad Alexander
(Advisor: Prof. Dimitri Mavris)
will propose a master’s thesis entitled,
A Multi-fidelity Approach to Structural Mass Estimation of Hypersonic Gliders
On
Wednesday, December 11th at 8:00 a.m.
Weber SSTII, CoVE
Abstract
Hypersonic vehicles, operating at speeds exceeding Mach 5, present critical design challenges for the United States' defense and aerospace sectors. As hypersonic technology evolves, there is a pressing need for accurate, early structural mass estimation methods to predict mass properties of novel hypersonic vehicle concepts. Furthermore, research is needed to improve the transition between empirical, analytical, and computational techniques to ensure efficient and effective development processes. This thesis proposes a multi-fidelity approach to structural mass estimation for hypersonic aircraft, integrating historical mass estimating relationships and physics-based approaches to improve confidence in analysis of novel glider concepts, leveraged for national security.
A key objective of this approach is to quantify the point at which mass estimating relationships, commonly used in early design phases, should give way to preliminary physics-based, analytical approaches before transitioning to highly detailed numerical analysis. By systematically assessing the trade-offs between fidelity and computational effort, this framework aims to streamline the design process for hypersonic vehicles, ensuring that the appropriate level of detail is applied at each stage. The multi-fidelity framework is intended to support MDO environments, enhancing the accuracy of mass predictions, decision-making confidence, and overall design efficiency.
This thesis contributes to the field by providing a structured methodology for transitioning between different mass estimation techniques to allow for more informed decision-making in the early phases of hypersonic vehicle design. By offering a flexible and adaptable mass estimation process, the project supports the iterative development of hypersonic waveriders, advancing both the precision and speed of design iterations in defense and aerospace applications.
Committee
· Prof. Dimitri Mavris – School of Aerospace Engineering (advisor)
· Dr. Adam Cox– Research Engineer II, Aerospace Systems Design Lab
· Dr. Evan Harrison – Senior Research Engineer, Aerospace Systems Design Lab