UAM Design Space Exploration Framework with Embedded Version Control

There are no tools available to NASA that are capable of managing UAM design space exploration. The framework proposed here seeks to address that need. The framework will rely on external analysis tools, such as VSPAERO, to provide disciplinary analysis. It will also rely on external optimization frameworks, such as OpenMDAO, to perform multidisciplinary design, analysis, and optimization. The framework proposed here will feature a JSON-based vehicle architecture designed around multi-model UAM concepts. Additionally, the framework will have a version control system embedded in it to handle vehicle version management. This is made possible by the text-based nature of the JSON format.

The software developed under this effort will enable NASA to assess urban air mobility system architectures and conceptual vehicle designs in a complex design space. The software will be developed at a similar cost to buying commercially available software, but will also enable NASA to guide development towards their needs. There is significant interest in urban air mobility (UAM) concepts in both industry and academia. Commercially, this software will enable companies to evaluate many UAM concepts without having to spend significant resources on development. This will enable to them to select feasible vehicle concepts and focus their development resources.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.