Abstract:

This article proposes an approach of building a system with an open framework for aircraft conceptual design. This approach is able to make better use of current tools and improve design quality and efficiency by integrating many tools applied in the conceptual design process. Some issues on software application during the aircraft conceptual design process are analyzed. The definitions of function units and open framework used in the design process are stated. The system software framework, including the resource tier, service tier, application tier and cooperation tier, and the hardware framework built on network are designed. The logic of system integration and data transmission are laid out. The approach of using agents to integrated analysis tools is brought forward. Subsystems of customized component development, concept design and solution management are established and operated successfully. A fighter conceptual design environment based on the open framework is finally outlined to illustrate the feasibility and application prospects of the system.

Key words: aircraft , engineering,  , conceptual , design,  , open , framework,  , system , frame,  , system , integration