The role of statistically designed experiments in conceptual aerospace vehicle design

The approach used in a propulsion system design optimization study for an advanced space transportation vehicles is described. The Taguchi method, based on statistically designed experiments, is utilized to conduct a series of parametric trade studies to optimize the vehicle weight. The role of Taguchi methods on conceptual aerospace vehicle design is discussed. The Taguchi method provided a systematic and efficient methodology for solving multiparameter propulsion/vehicle optimization problems with far less effort than would be required for full factorial design.<
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