Multilevel framework for optimization of lightweight structures

Optimization of aerospace and lightweight structures, such as aircraft wings, is typically best carried out via a multilevel process. This becomes necessary owing to the complexity of the structure and potentially very large numbers of design variables. While more conventional analysis and design procedures are often based on the computationally expensive finite element method, specialist software, such as the ‘exact’ strip program VICONOPT, provides faster and more efficient alternatives for structural components such as wing panels. With ever-increasing computational power, different software solutions can be integrated by means of robust and easy-to-use interfaces, allowing the user to benefit from more versatile optimization environments. The computer program Viconopt MLO establishes a multilevel framework for optimization by interfacing the panel analysis and design software VICONOPT and the finite element software MSC/NASTRAN. In this paper the underlying principles of the optimization procedure in Viconopt MLO are described, and the software's capability is demonstrated through the optimization of a composite aircraft wing