Subspace Optimization of Multidisciplinary Systems Using Coupled Post-Optimality Sensitivity Analysis

A new subspace optimization method for performing aero-structural design is introduced. The method relies on a semi-analytic adjoint approach to the sensitivity analysis that includes post-optimality sensitivity information from the structural optimization subproblem. The resulting coupled post-optimality sensitivity (CPOS) approach is used to guide a gradient-based optimization algorithm. The new approach simplifies the system-level problem, thereby reducing the number of calls to the aerodynamics solver. The aero-structural optimization of an aircraft wing is carried out, and it is shown that the proposed method results in a problem equivalent to the conventional approach. The new method is also shown to reduce both the computational time required by the aerodynamic discipline, and the total time required by higher-fidelity optimizations. 2