Multidisciplinary Optimization and Design Engineering Laboratory (MODEL)

MDO Test Suite

About

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The MDO Test Suite is comprised of a set of “benchmarked” problems to assist MDO researchers in validating newly developed optimization, meta-model and sensitivity analysis methodologies. The goal is to provide a means of comparing relative advantages of various optimization and modeling approaches for solving different classes of problems, where the classes are dependent upon problem complexity. It also provides a global platform for researchers to unite their efforts and share them with the MDO community to expedite the advancement of knowledge and application of MDO methods.

Classification of Test Problems

Test Problems are classified by degree of coupling, nature of coupling and problem size. The following notation will be used.

    1. Hierarchic
    2. Non-hierarchic
      1. Low degree of Coupling
      2. Medium degree of Coupling
      3. High degree of Coupling
        1. Small problem size
        2. Medium problem size
        3. Large problem size

Access

 The 2008 MDO Test Suite can be accessed here

 The  1996-2007 MDO Test Suite can be accessed here. This site contains the original set of test problems, categorized by a different classification scheme based on number of variables and constraints.

Background Information

Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (MDO)

MDO is an emerging field of engineering that uses optimization methods to solve inherently coupled design problems, typically involving multiple disciplines. MDO methods enable the design of complex coupled systems in which the synergistic effects of coupling between various interacting disciplines are explored and exploited at every stage of the design process. MDO techniques are widely used in aerospace and aircraft manufacturing industries which require design of complex engineering systems. These methods are much more effective than optimizing the individual disciplinary problems sequentially.

AIAA MDO Technical Committee

The AIAA Multidisciplinary Design Optimization Technical Committee (AIAA MDO TC) works to provide an AIAA forum for those active in development, application, and teaching of a formal design methodology based on the integration of disciplinary analyses and sensitivity analyses, optimization, and artificial intelligence, applicable at all stages of the multidisciplinary design of aerospace-systems. The Test Suite is being developed with oversight and assistance of the Applications and Benchmarking Subcommittee of the MDO TC.