Concurrent Aerospace Thermoplastic Stiffened Panel Conceptual Design and Cost Estimation Using Knowledge Based Engineering

A methodology is presented to estimate aerospace stiffened panel cost within conceptual design phase based on the Knowledge-Based Engineering (KBE) technique. A modular cost estimation with product, process, cost result modules has been developed. An approach of using cost primitives for cost calculation is proposed. Required inputs of the cost estimation are provided by the product model layout with optimized structural size. A set of specific parameters including part function, materials, manufacturing methods are correspondent to one type of cost primitive. Manufacturing cost is estimated by summing up the cost of different combinations of parameterized cost primitives. Through a case study, the framework presented in this paper is verified as a modular and fast tool to assist designers performing design decision in the early stage. The cost of thermoplastic stiffened panel can benefit from its low manufacturing assembly cost.