Prioritized multi-objective optimization of an aircraft flight performance based on Nash games from preponderant Pareto-optimal points

A hierarchical multi-objective optimization process is applied to the performance of an Airbus-A320-type aircraft. Six design variables are used to calibrate wing geometry, mean aerodynamic chord and take-off thrust potential. Functional constraints are enforced (interval bound on static margin and upper bound on wing span). The system is subject to the classical Breguet laws of Flight Mechanics and to the numerical integration of the ascent phase. It is thus an Ordinary-Differential-Equation-constrained system and it is evaluated by the open-source software FAST-OAD. Three cost functionals are minimized: fuel mass at take-off, operational empty weight, and ascent duration. The first two, considered of preponderant importance are prioritized, and the third only secondary. The method permits, at moderate numerical cost, to identify quasi-Pareto-optimal by Nash games originating from Pareto-optimal solutions of the sole prioritized cost functions