Incorporating hybrid models into a framework for design of multi-stage material processes

Concerns the design of material processes by using optimization algorithms to vary the parameters of computationally intensive analysis models so as to improve the design of individual stages of a manufacturing process. The ongoing work presented here is aimed at creating a tool for preliminary design of products and processes that considers the entire sequence of required processes simultaneously. This is accomplished by viewing the sequence of processes and the product as system that can be optimally designed using formal mathematical techniques. The ultimate goal is to create an easy-to-use software system for integrating material, process, equipment, and cost models, and optimization algorithms into a single environment for preliminary and intermediate design of multistage material processes. Alternative materials and processes are considered and the influence of design decisions on cost is estimated at early design stages. The initial focus of the project is preliminary and intermediate design of sequences of processes used in production of turbine engine components.