An Object-Oriented Framework for Distributed Computational Simulation of Aerospace Propulsion Systems

Designing and developing new aerospace propulsion systems is time-consuming and expensive. Computational simulation is a promising means for alleviating this cost, but requires a flexible software simulation system capable of integrating advanced multidisciplinary and multifidelity analysis methods, dynamically constructing arbitrary simulation models, and distributing computationally complex tasks. To address these issues, we have developed Onyx, a Javabased object-oriented application framework for aerospace propulsion system simulation. The Onyx framework defines a common component object model which provides a consistent component interface for the construction of hierarchal object models. Because Onyx is a framework, component analysis models may be changed dynamically to adapt simulation behavior as required. A customizable visual interface provides highlevel symbolic control of propulsion system construction and execution. For computationally-intensive analysis, components may be distributed across heterogeneous computing architectures and operating systems. This paper describes the design concepts and object-oriented architecture of Onyx. As a representative simulation, a set of lumped-parameter gas turbine engine components are developed and used to simulate a turbojet engine.