Efficient approach to database integration for an aerospace vehicle design and certification framework

Abstract

The integration of distributed data sources is one of the main problems of engineering software. The data integration process for a heterogeneous legacy system is a key aspect of the development of a computerized system and in the integration of a design framework. In this research, our approach to data integration focuses on developing system-building techniques for efficient data integration queries. Keyword-based data searching is investigated and applied within a database for a design framework. A database table connector (DTC) wrapper program is implemented based on the use of data integration processes and keyword-based searching. The DTC provides data integration for various data resources from legacy programs and database management systems using SQL querying. The DTC enables designers and developers to rapidly and efficiently develop integration frameworks for different data resources. This paper also describes the implementation and deployment of the Certification and Aircraft Design Integration System framework, which integrates various analysis and optimization codes, computer-aided design software and database management systems. Multiple data types are used within the framework, including databases, spreadsheets, flat files, XML files and personal data management. Several aircraft design and optimization problems are successfully solved using the developed framework.