Dr. Kamran Behdinan
Founding Director
Dr. Kamran Behdinan
PEng., FAAAS, FASME, FCAE, FCSME, FEIC, FPWC, AFAIAA, FAAIA
Professor
NSERC Chair in "Multidisciplinary Engineering Design" (2012–2023)
Director, U of T - Institute for Multidisciplinary Design and Innovation (IMDI)
Chair, Syllabus Committee, The Canadian Engineering Qualification Board, Engineers Canada
Email: behdinan@mie.utoronto.ca
Research Areas
Design of lightweight airframe structures; characterization, modeling, and analysis of advanced materials and structures; MDO of aerospace/automotive systems; bridging FE-MD method for multi-scale modeling of solids; application of biofuel in aviation and automotive.
Our Team
Mr. Bidhendi, MRT
PhD Candidate
Email:m.talebibidhendi@mail.utoronto.ca
Research Area: Multiscale modeling, Solid-state physics, Nonlinear waves, Vibrations, Nonlinear dynamics, System identification
Mr. Cheng, Jasper
PhD Candidate
Email: jasper.cheng@mail.utoronto.ca
Research Area: Integrated circuit manufacturing, AI technologies, Photolithography
Ms. Kim, Tory (Tongwha)
PhD Candidate
Email: tongwha.kim@mail.utoronto.ca
Research Area: Advanced & Intelligent Manufacturing, Quality Control, Machine Learning & Data Analysis
Ms. Ghahramani, Pardis
PhD Candidate
Email: pardis.ghahramani@mail.utoronto.ca
Research Area: Smart Multifunctional Materials, Materials Design, Nanocomposite Sensors, Plastic Foaming Technology in Wastewater Treatment, Bioengineering.
Mr. Minor, Grant
PhD Candidate
Email: grant.minor@mail.utoronto.ca
Research Area: Plant/Facility Design Optimization
Mr. Mishra, S. Ranjan
PhD Candidate |Lab Manager
Email: sr.mishra@mail.utoronto.ca
Research Area: Multidisciplinary Design Optimization, Product Design & Development, Additive Manufacturing, Finite Element Analysis, Regulatory Affairs.
Dr. Moradi-Dastjerdi, Rasool
Post Doctoral Fellow
Email: moradi@mie.utoronto.ca
Research Area: Advanced Materials, Advanced Structures and Components, Thermo-electro-mechanical behaviours of Advanced Structures, Developing and Applying of New Computational Mechanics Methods.
Former Members
Soumya Ranjan Mishra, MASc, 2021
Thesis: Emergency Use Ventilator Evaluation and Assessment: Open-Source Hardware, Performance, Regulatory Requirements and Technology Readiness
Sayed Ehsan Mir-Haidari, PhD, 2021
Thesis: Structural Dynamic Analysis and Health Monitoring of Aeroengines: Nonlinear Modelling of Bolted Flange Connections and Transfer Path Analysis
Mohammadali Soleimanipour, MASc, 2021
Thesis: Characterization of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle’s Single and Co-axial Propellers Performance Considering Geometrical and Environmental Factors
Zhenghong Song, MEng, 2021
Project: System Improvements at the Provincial Forensic Pathology Unit and Office of the Chief Coroner (PFPU)
Peiying Wang, MEng, 2021
Project: System Improvements at the Provincial Forensic Pathology Unit and Office of the Chief Coroner (PFPU)
Dhruvil Patel, MEng, 2021
Project: Characterization and Evaluation of Meridem E-Series Advanced Heating Technology
Tuhin Ranjan, MEng, 2021
Project: Characterization and Evaluation of Meridem E-Series Advanced Heating Technology
Doug Munghen , MASc, 2021
Thesis: Incorporation of Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors in Additive Manufactured Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene for Strain Monitoring During Fatigue Loading
Dr. Vincent Iacobellis , PDF, 2021
Dr. Ali Radhi , PDF, 2021
Mir Sakib Mustashin, MASc, 2020
Thesis: Development of a Test Rig and Testing Method for Shimmy Damper Characterization
Sultan Alqash, PhD, 2020
Thesis: A Novel Approach for Landing Gear Far-field Noise Prediction Using Multiple Two-dimensional Simulations
Mohsen Rahmani, PhD, 2020
Thesis: Nonlinear Stability Analysis and Shimmy Mitigation of Aircraft Nose Landing Gears
Maxime Perreault, MASc, 2020
Thesis: Analysis and Development of a Halbach Array Motor for Application into a Novel Delivery Drone Driving Cycle for Powertrain Optimization and Maximization of Delivery Radius
Hyun Jun Shim, MEng, 2020
Project: Predicting Wall Pressure Fluctuations in Process Piping Systems Due to High Velocity Fluid Streams
Saheb Dhody, MEng, 2020
Project: Design of an Anechoic Chamber for Aeroacoustic Testing in a Wind Tunnel
Niu Yan, PhD, 2020
Thesis: Study on Nonlinear Vibrations of Shallow Shell Structures of Aeroengine Compressor Blades with Innovative Materials
Tyler Rankin, MEng, 2020
Project: A Study on Eskom’s Duvha Power Station Ash Dam
Mujtaba Ali Khan, MEng, 2020
Project: Manufacturing Clusters within Canada and the Caribbean
Seyed Abdul Mannan, MEng, 2020
Project: Development of an Innovation Process Map for Manufacturing Firms in the Caribbean
Xingchen Liu, PhD, 2020
Thesis: Structural Dynamic Analysis and Health Monitoring of Aeroengines: Nonlinear Modelling of Bolted Flange Connections and Transfer Path Analysis
Vidhisha Umesh Ashar, MEng, 2020
Project: Resilient and Adaptive Wheels with 3D Lattice Structures
Chaojian Jia, MEng, 2019
Project: Bench Marking of Software Packages in Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Models
Peter Nearing, MEng, 2019
Project: Using Data Science Techniques to Analyze Maintenance Events in Complex Systems: A Multidisciplinary Approach
Acharya Vedang, MEng, 2019
Project: An Introduction to the Development of Design Readiness Level for Engineering Applications
Ali Radhi, PhD, 2019
Thesis: Dynamic Multiscale Modeling of Crystal Structures with Applications to Polymorphic and Ultra-High Temperature Ceramics
Ruiqin Wu, PhD, 2019
Thesis: Nonlinear Dynamic Modeling and Analysis on Vibration Characteristics of an Annular Satellite Antenna
Sina Fahimi, MEng, 2019
Project: Applying Sustainability to Aero Engines
Megan Hamilton, MASc, 2019
Thesis: Novel Approaches to Evaluating and Characterizing Force Sensor Performance at Body-Device Interfaces
Nanfei Wang, PhD, 2019
Thesis: Investigation of Rub-impact in Dual-Rotor-Support- Casing Coupling System
Xiaotian Chen, MEng, 2019
Project: New Generation Toilet Design (MMP1)
Hongchuan Yang, MEng, 2019
Project: New Generation Toilet Design (MMP2)
Jaber Abedin, MEng, 2019
Project: Design of a Pressure Test Rig for Engine Bleed Valve Filters
Tieshu Fan, PhD, 2019
Thesis: Modeling and Experimentation of Squeeze Film Dampers Considering Fluid Inertia, Film Cavitation and Design Features in Aircraft Engine
Dr. Mohammed Khair Al-Solihat, PDF, 2019
Research Area: Nonlinear dynamics
Dr. Seyed Mohammad Mahdi Zamani, PDF, 2019
Research Area: Multiscale modeling
Dr. Sharvari Dhote, PDF, 2019
Research Area: Design of flexible biosensors
Abdulrahman B.O. Oyetunji, MEng, 2018
Project: The Utilization of Phenolic Composites in Vital High- Temperature Rocketry Applications
Marc-Antoine Beaudoin, MASc, 2018
Thesis: Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis of Bolted Flanges in Aero-Engine Casings
S.M.Mahdi Zamani, PhD, 2018
Thesis: Multiscale Modeling of Mechanical Behavior of Nextel 720 CMC Fibers at a Range of Temperatures
Badr Aloufi, PhD, 2018
Thesis: Modeling and Design a Smart Double-Panel System for the Control of Sound Transmission into Aircraft Cabin
Konstandin Dhimitri, MEng, 2018
Project: Friction Modeling in FEA-Landing Gear Pin Joints
Andrew Gibbs, MEng, 2018
Project: Design and Development of Rider Torque Sensing Improvements for Integrated Gear Hub Electric Bicycles
Chuzy Ikpe, MEng, 2018
Project: Design of a Combined Manual and Automatic FAÇADE Cleaning System for High-Rise Buildings
Yang Chen, MASc, 2018
Thesis: Time Response Simulation for Nose Landing Gear Shimmy Damper Design
Anna Bucholc, MEng, 2018
Project: Performance Improvement of Turbofan Engine Through Material and Vibration Analysis
Jaroslaw Lutoslawski, MEng, 2017
Project: Design and Development of a Sea-Plane Landing gear Drop Test
Ameen Al Baz, MEng, 2017
Project: UV Disinfection Automation: Application of Ultraviolet Light in Hospital Acquired Infection Control
Mehrnoosh Haeri Yazdi, MEng, 2017
Project: Design of a Lightweight E-Wheelchair
Adrian Wan, MEng, 2017
Project: Pricing Model: Optimal Allocation of Discounts Across Service
Christopher Rabbitt, MASc, 2017
Thesis: Finite Element Vibration Modeling and Experimental Validation for an Aircraft Engine Casing
Xiaohan Luo, MEng, 2017
Project: Adjustments on Bombardier Spare Pricing Model for Reduced Direct Maintenance Cost
Zhaoxuan Wang, MEng, 2017
Project: Investigation of Steady State Flow Regime and Velocity Distribution at Two Fillet Wield Locations for In-Service Wielding Pipelines and Improving the Flow Pattern Using Pipe Geometry Change
Shivani Manish Sagar, MEng, 2017
Project: Design of Robotic Arm Control System for Testing of Radar Sensors – MMP Team
Shijo George Jacob, MEng, 2017
Project: Design of Robotic Arm Control System for Testing of Radar Sensors – MMP Team
Boyu Liu, MEng, 2017
Project: Construction of a Mechanical Systems Knowledge Base; “A Multidisciplinary Master’s Project” – MMP Team
Wenshu Zhao, MEng, 2017
Project: Construction of a Mechanical Systems Knowledge Base; “A Multidisciplinary Master’s Project” – MMP Team
Songheng Han, MEng, 2017
Project: Construction of a Mechanical Systems Knowledge Base; “A Multidisciplinary Master’s Project” – MMP Team
Yao Chen, MEng, 2017
Project: Multidisciplinary Design Optimization in a Generative Design System - – MMP Team
Shengshi Xia, MEng, 2017
Project: Multidisciplinary Design Optimization in a Generative Design System - – MMP Team
Lath Anselme Gbongbe, MEng, 2017
Project: Bombardier Maintenance Engineering Governance Procedures Optimization and Automation
Sina Hamzehlouia, PhD, 2017
Thesis: Squeeze Film Dampers in High-Speed Turbomachinery: Fluid Inertia Effects, Rotor dynamics, and Thermohydrodynamics
Dr. Yimin Tan, PDF, 2017
Research Area: Addidtive manufacturing and advanced biomedical sensor design
Dr. Mohammad Mashayekhi, PDF, 2016
Research Area: Transfer Path Analysis
Behzad Fazel, MASc, 2016
Thesis: Nonlinear Analysis and Structural Optimization of Aeroengine Casings Bolted Flange Connections
Vincent Iacobellis, PhD, 2016
Thesis: Integrated Uncertainty Techniques in Aircraft Derivative Design Optimization
Zhicao Pan, MEng, 2016
Project: Design of Levitation and Propulsion System for High Speed Transportation
Aravind Venkatapathy, MEng, 2016
Project: Design Process for Additive Manufacturing
Hamidreza Charkhian, MEng, 2016
Project: Computational Aerodynamic Analysis of High Speed vehicle in and Enclosed Tube at Near Vacuum Conditions
Narges BalouchestaniAsl, MASc, 2016
Thesis: Team Level Factors Affecting Innovation in Multidisciplinary Capstone Design Course
Swastic Roy, MEng, 2016
Project: Mechanical Stress Analysis of the Nitrogen Generation System Controller
Georg Siroky, MASc, 2016
Thesis: Coupled Atomistic-Continuum Models for Strength Prediction in Fiber-Polymer-Composites
Stephen Missiuna, MEng, 2016
Project: Multidisciplinary Master’s Project- Augmented-Reality Vibro-Acoustic Helmet for the Visually Impaired
Negin Shahbazian, MASc, 2015
Thesis: A Novel Design of the Heat Exchanger of an Aircraft’s Environmental Controller
Mohammad Rahman, MASc, 2015
Thesis: Design of DC-Link Capacitor of High Power Switch Module for an Aircraft Power & Thermal Management Controller
Nima Bahrani, MASc, 2015
Thesis: Multidisciplinary Design Optimization of Turbomachinery Blade
Ali Radhi, MEng, 2015
Project: Study of Partitioned-Domain Multiscale Methods of Temp. Effect on Lattice Parameter under Static Loading
Robert Lesser, MASc, 2015
Thesis: Systematic Product Development and Design Optimization of a Morphing Wing Tip
Zhaoxiong Pan, MEng, 2015
Project: Adaptive Active Noise Control of Vehicle Engine Noise Using Tachometer Signals
Mehran Ebrahimi, MASc, 2015
Thesis: Design and Optimization of Aluminum Cross-Car Beam Assemblies Considering
Ali Al-Safi, MASc, 2015
Thesis: Novel Framework for Reduced Order Modeling of Aeroengine Components
Carlos Areeza, MASc, 2015
Thesis: Linear Stability Analysis, Dynamic Response, and Design of Shimmy Dampers for Main Landing Gears
Andre Stanneveld, MEng, 2015
Project: Laparoscopic Preoperative Decision Tool
Sheng Yu, MEng, 2015
Project: Noise Prediction of high Bypass-Ratio Turbofan Engine Intake Fan
Erik Guenther, MASc, 2015
Thesis: Multidisciplinary design Optimization of Morphing Winglet
Fras Wasim, MEng, 2015
Project: Load Path Analysis of a Rotating Systems
Amin Melyouni, MEng, 2015
Project: Chatter Stability Analysis in Turning and Milling
Dr. Masih Mahmoodi, PDF, 2015
Dr. Rakesh Dhote, PDF, 2015
Dr. Sara Scharf, PDF, 2014
Hyeong Uk Park, PhD, 2014
Thesis: Integrated Uncertainty Techniques in Aircraft Derivative Design Optimization
Timothy Leung, MASc, 2014
Thesis: Fluid Inertia Damping Effects on Dynamic Engine Response
Sitong Wang, MASc, 2014
Thesis: Applications and Numerical Study of Ceramic Composite Seals in Aircraft Engine
Renjie Xu, MEng, 2014
Project: Simulation of Thermal Expansion Behavior of Al/Al2O3 CMC under High Temperatures
Sepp Winner, MASc, 2014
Thesis: Design and Analysis of a Flexible Skin for a Morphing Wingtip
Payman Hosseinzadeh Mirkhizi, MEng, 2013
Project: Self-Pierce Rivets for Joining Advanced High Strength Steel Sheets to Aluminum Alloy Sheets
Ke Qi, MEng, 2013
Project: Atmospheric Corrosion of Photovoltaic Racking Structures
Daniel Eisenbarth, MASc, 2013
Thesis: Mass Estimation of a Seamless Morphing Wingtip
Mohsen Rahmani, MASc, 2013
Thesis: Multidisciplinary design Optimization of Automotive Aluminum Cross-Car Beam Assembly
Mohamad Ahmadi, MASc, 2013
Thesis: Experimental High Cycle Fatigue Testing and Shape Optimization of Turbine Blades
Mike Leahy, MASc, 2013
Thesis: Multidisciplinary Design Optimization of a Morphing Wingtip Concept with Multiple Morphing Stages at Cruise
Rizwan Shokat, MEng, 2013
Project: Vehicle Weight Reduction Techniques & Use of Composites as Light-Weighing Material
Pezhman Hassanpour, PDF, 2011-2012
Research Area: Engine Vibration Analysis
Steven Liu, MEng, 2012
Project: Investigations of a New Self Lock Feature of Power Window Regulator for Automotive Application
Joshua Morley, MASc, 2012
Thesis: Shape Optimization and Modular Discretization for the Development of a Morphing Wingtip
Jayaprakash Kannan, MASc, 2012
Thesis: Performance Analysis of Tube-Fin Heat Exchanger Under Vibration
Giovanni Montesano, PhD, 2012
Thesis: Fracture Damage Characterization of Braided and Woven Fiber Reinforced Polymer Matrix Composites at Elevated Temperatures
Hojjat Fathollahi, MASc, 2011, currently at General Motors
Thesis: Multi-body Dynamics Analysis of Cervical Spine for Helicopter Pilots
Randy Haydon, MASc, 2011
Thesis: Finite Element Modeling of Cartilage
Shahryar Rafiei, PhD, 2011
Thesis: Design of Double Skin Profiled Composite Shear Wall System Under In-Plane Monotonic, Cyclic, and Impact Loading
Amir Seif, MASc, 2011
Thesis: Modified Logistical Creep Strain Prediction Method: A Constitutive Creep Strain Model of A Nickel Based Supper-Alloy
Ashley Ferguson, MASc, 2011
Thesis: Numerical Simulation of a Fuel Nozzle’s Spray
Olcay Met, MASc, 2011
Thesis: Compatibility of Metallic and Non-Metallic Turbine Engine Materials with Aviation Fuels
Hojjat Fathollahi, MASc, 2011
Thesis: Multi-body Dynamics Analysis of Cervical Spine for Helicopter Pilots
Orest Kostiv, MASc, 2010
Thesis: An Investigation for Optimal Tool Kinematics in Powder Compaction Cycle to Minimize Density Gradient in Green Powder Compaction
Daniel Neufeld, PhD, 2010
Thesis: Multidisciplinary Aircraft Conceptual Design Optimization Considering Fidelity Uncertainties
Marina Slezneva, MASc, 2010
Thesis: Application of Fiber Optic Sensors for health monitoring of Composite Materials
Michael Leahy, MASc, 2010
Thesis: Multidisciplinary design optimization of helicopter rotor blade
Alireza Fereidooni, PhD, 2009
Thesis: Nonlinear Instability and Reliability Analysis of Composite Laminated Beams
Peter Krimbolis, PhD, 2009
Thesis: On a Validated Damage Prediction Methodology for the Strength of Fiber Metal Laminates in Pin Bearing
Ramin Amid, PhD, 2009
Thesis: Dynamic Analysis of Substructures with Account of Altered Restraint when Tested in Isolation
Aminul Haque, MASc, 2009
Thesis: Next Generation Powder Compaction Process
Noushin Bahramshahi, MASc, 2009
Thesis: Finite Element Analysis of Middle Cervical Spine
Lubomir Jirasek, MASc, 2009
Thesis: A Genetic Algorithm Based Partition Generation and Optimization Method for Finite Element Problems
Jonathan Vandersluis, MASc, 2009
Thesis: Nano Indentation Simulation for Large Atomic Systems: Analysis of Molecular Dynamics and Bridged Finite Element-Molecular Dynamic Methodology
Tarunkumar Patel, MASc, 2008
Thesis: Satellite Attitude Control using Environmental Forces Based on Variable Structural Control
Lesha Kolubinski, MASc, 2008
Thesis: On the Use of Fiber Optic Sensors Embedded in Fiber Reinforced Polymers
Brad Baird, MASc, 2008
Thesis: Prediction of Overload on Landing Gears for Health Monitoring Purposes
Ruben Perez, PhD, 2007
Thesis: Multidisciplinary Design Optimization of Aircraft Integrating Flight Dynamics, Stability and Control at the Conceptual Level
Karthik Narayan, MASc, 2007
Thesis: A Numerical Fitting Procedure for the Embedded Atom Method, Inter-Atomic Potential, and a Bridged Finite Element-Molecular Dynamics Method for Large Atomic Systems
Reza Karami, MASc, 2007
Thesis: Experimental and Finite Element Analysis of Articular Cartilage
Hamid Ghaemi, PhD, 2006
Thesis: Finite Element Analysis of the Human Cardiovascular System Under Sustained +Gz Acceleration
Brian Leonard, MASc, 2006
Thesis: High-Fidelity Multidisciplinary Design Optimization of Flexible Aircraft Wings
Michael Mang, MASc, 2006
Thesis: Multidisciplinary Design Optimization of Stamped and Welded Structures
Jamal Zeinalov, MASc, 2006
Thesis: Parametric Representation of Turbine Blades and Vanes Internal Cooling Geometry
Muhammad Ardalani Farsa, MASc, 2006
Thesis: Finite Element Analysis of Complete Model of Cervical Spine
Jonathan Bahen, MASc, 2006
Thesis: Numerical Modeling of the Effect of Reaming on Pressure and Temperature in Orthopedic Procedures of Long Bones
Azar Hojabr, MASc, 2006
Thesis: Experimental Characterization of the Pressure Buildup in the Intermedullary Canal during Orthopedic Reaming using a Synthetic Bone Analogue
Sherry Towfighian, MASc, 2006
Thesis: Finite Element Modeling of Low Speed Reaming in the Application of Femoral Canal Preparation for Intramedullary Nailing
Robert Szydlowski, MASc, 2006
Thesis: Calculation of Elastic Constants for Cu, Ag and Au using MD simulation and EAM Potentials
Ali Taha, MEng, 2006
Project: Cervical Spine Multi-body Mathematical Model
Peyman Honarmandi, PhD, 2006
Thesis: Reliability Based Fatigue Optimization of MEMS Actuators
Yong-Lin Kuo, PhD, 2005
Thesis: Applications of the H-, P-, and R- Refinements of the Finite Element Method on Elasto-Dynamic Problems
Giovanni Montesano, MASc, 2005
Thesis: Fluid-Structure Interaction Considerations for Solid Rocket Motor Internal Ballistics Modeling
Daniel Dobrjanski, MASc, 2005
Thesis: Experimental Parametric Study of the Factors Leading to Elevated Femoral Intermedullary Pressure and Fat Embolus Syndrome in Orthopedic Procedures
Omar Al-Amin Gaber, MASc, 2005
Thesis: Numerical Modeling of Fat Embolus Syndrome for a Knee Replacement Operation
Paul Saadetian, MASc, 2005
Thesis: A Finite Element Approach to Predicting Intermedullary Pressure during the Insertion of Prosthetic Implants
Byeongcho Lee, MASc, 2005
Thesis: Vehicle Stability through Integrated Active Steering and Differential Braking
Robert Da Silva, MASc, 2005
Thesis: Simulation of Non-return Valve Closure in a Thixomolding Process Utilizing a Magnesium Alloy
Sacheen Bekah, MASc, 2004
Thesis: Fatigue Life Prediction in a Door Hinge System Under Uni-Axial and Multi-Axial Loading Condition
Marc Alexander, MASc, 2004
Thesis: Inflight Investigation of the Effects of Rotor State Measurement and Feedback on Variable Stability Helicopters
Peter Krimbalis, MASc, 2004
Thesis: A Validated Finite Element Study of Blunt Trauma to the Human Maxilla
Masoud Alimardani, MASc, 2004
Thesis: Computational Optimum Lightweight Design of an Instrument Panel Support Structure
Alireza Fereidooni, MASc, 2004
Thesis: Fatigue Analysis of Fuel Tank Straps due to Slosh Loads
Anthony Rossi, MASc, 2004
Thesis: Crashworthiness Behavior of Thin-Walled Aluminum Extruded Tubes
Ramin Amid, MASc, 2003
Thesis: Energy Absorption of Composite Materials Under High Velocity Impact
Primoz Cresnik, MASc, 2003
Thesis: High Sustained +Gz and the Diastolic Heart: A Finite Element Analysis
Simon Chan, MASc, 2003
Thesis: Ballistic Limit Prediction Using A Numerical Model with Progressive Damage Capability
Nicholas Ali, MASc, 2002
Thesis: Optimization of Engineering Systems Using Genetic Algorithm Enhanced Computational Techniques
Leila Bahreinian, MASc, 2002
Thesis: Transient Response of Bridges Traversed by Moving Vehicles: Pitch-Bounce Model
Arvind Misra, PhD, 2002
Thesis: Acoustic, Fluid-Structure and Decoupled Seismic Analysis of Piping Systems
Kin Pong Lam, MASc, 2002
Thesis: Effects of Using Aalternative Materials and Gauge Thickness on the NVH and Crashworthiness Performance of the VN127 Instrument Panel Support Structure
Tong Qu, MASc, 2001
Thesis: Finite Element Modeling and Stability Analysis of Chatter in End-milling Machine Tools
Ruben Perez, MASc, 2001
Thesis: Soft Computing Techniques and Applications in Aircraft Design Optimization