An Integrated Digital Engineering Framework for Parametric Design and Finite Element Analysis of Aerospace Systems

2026-26-0735

To be published on 06/01/2026

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Digital engineering practices in aerospace increasingly require closely connected and traceable analysis workflows rather than isolated finite element tasks. Traditional FEA methods remain effective, but they involve considerable manual effort during pre- processing and post-processing, making rapid iteration difficult. Finite Element Analysis of STructures (FEAST), an indigenous finite element analysis software developed by Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) ISRO, offers structural analysis capabilities through a command-based architecture, yet its manual operation limits its use in automated studies.
This work develops a flexible scripting-driven framework that links geometry creation, load-case definition, solver execution, and result interpretation within a unified digital engineering pipeline. The framework automates repetitive tasks, incorporates Design of Experiments (DoE) for systematic parameter variation, and supports sensitivity and automation studies. Its performance is demonstrated through the analysis of a conical adaptor subjected to two load cases. Across 9720 automated simulations, the workflow identified feasible thickness configuration that satisfied frequency (>125 Hz), buckling (>3.0) and bolt factor-of-safety (>1.0) constraints, while achieving an overall 5% reduction in structural mass. The framework establishes a scalable approach for integrating FEAST within a modern digital engineering environment and enables reproducible, consistent evaluation of complex aerospace structures.
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Gupta, S., T J, R., and P, D., "An Integrated Digital Engineering Framework for Parametric Design and Finite Element Analysis of Aerospace Systems," AeroCON 2026, Bangalore, India, June 4, 2026, .
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Published
To be published on Jun 1, 2026
Product Code
2026-26-0735
Content Type
Technical Paper
Language
English