At the IDOpt lab, we work on advancing the science and practice of engineering design. We aim to improve how complex engineering systems are conceived, analyzed, and optimized.
Aircraft are prime examples of complex engineering systems. Their design is shaped by their missions and the environments in which they operate. Aircraft design requires consideration of multiple disciplines—such as aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, and controls—and the coupled analysis of these disciplines to evaluate overall performance. As safety-critical systems, aircraft must meet rigorous regulatory certification standards and demonstrate high reliability across all components.
At the IDOpt lab, we develop methods, algorithms, and software to address such challenges.
Certification-Driven Design
Integration of Multidisciplinary Design, Analysis, and Optimization (MDAO) and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)
Multimodal Transportation Systems
Large-scale multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVToL) concepts.
Sarojini, D., Ruh, M. L., Joshy, A. J., Yan, J., Ivanov, A. K., Scotzniovsky, L., ... & Hwang, J. T. (2023). Large-Scale Multidisciplinary Design Optimization of an eVTOL Aircraft using Comprehensive Analysis. In AIAA SCITECH 2023 Forum (p. 0146). [DOI]
I'm always on the lookout for talented students and researchers to join my group. Whether you're interested in research assistantships, teaching assistantships, undergraduate research, or postdoctoral opportunities, there's a place for you here. Please fill out this form to express your interest and share more about your background.
Darshan attends the CAAMS center annual Industry Review Board (IRB) meeting in Ann Arbor MI.
Darshan presents our work on Performance and Regulatory Assessment Trim Formulations for Conceptual Aircraft Design at the AIAA Aviation 2025 conference in Las Vegas NV.