Global/Local Methodology for Optimum Design of AAAV Structures

The designers of the Advanced Amphibious Assault Vehicle (AAAV) face a number of technical challenges which include developing methodologies for estimating the actual structural loads, predicting critical structural responses, and estimating the vehicle's reliability. In addition, the development of a design methodology for minimizing the cost and weight of the vehicle is critical to the success of the program. We propose to develop a global/local software environment for integrating design and analysis tools. Included will be tools for modeling rough terrain and blast loads, performing nonlinear finite element analysis, and estimating the reliability of the structure. ADOPTECH's university partner has considerable experience in each of these critical technological areas and will be responsible for adapting existing design and analysis methodologies as well as developing innovative new methods for use in the software environment.