Architectural optimisation of distributed control systems for aero gas turbine engines using genetic algorithms

The design of distributed control systems (DCSs) for large, civil gas turbine engines is an inherently difficult architectural challenge. To date, the majority of research into DCSs has focused on the contributing technologies and high temperature electronics rather than the architecture of the system itself. This paper proposes a method for the architectural design of distributed systems using a genetic algorithm to generate, evaluate and refine designs. The method is presented along with results proving the concept.