ACCELERATING PROGRAM DELIVERY THROUGH OPTIMIZATION

It is generally accepted that structural optimization has been responsible for achieving component and system weight reduction for multiple applications, but often these methods are considered only as a tool to reduce vehicle weight later in a vehicle design. This paper proposes earlier and broader application of the technology during a military vehicle program.

An optimization driven design approach will reduce development time, through fewer design iterations, while creating robust design directions not influenced by design history. The proactive use of optimization technologies throughout a development program yield benefits in terms of vehicle weight (and therefore increased payload), improve performance and protection while reducing material costs.