An “integration index” for determining the degree of subsystem integration in passenger and transport aircraft designs

This study addresses the scientific and technical challenge of evaluating the integrative properties of the complex technical system comprising an aircraft’s airframe and power plant during the phase of work on the preliminary design or modernization of passenger and transport aircraft. A novel “integration index” is proposed, which quantifies the degree of subsystem integration or compatibility by considering thrust, aerodynamic, and geometric characteristics, alongside design and layout solutions. The integration index may streamline early-stage parametric studies, by reducing design variants. The integration index’s dependencies on the characteristics of the aircraft engine and airframe are examined. The proposed approach can be used to conduct parametric studies at the stages of preliminary variant design of aircraft subsystems. This, in turn, will reduce the cost and time of designing new, significant upgrades of existing aircraft and their components. The methodology offers a practical tool for evaluating hybrid-electric and conventional aircraft systems, thus guiding the development of innovative and competitive aviation technologies.