Aerodynamic shape parameterisation and optimisation of novel configurations

The Multi-Disciplinary Design Optimisation (MDO) process can be supported by partial automation of analysis and optimisation steps. Design and Engineering Engines (DEE) are useful concepts to structure this type of automation. Within the DEE, a product can be parameterically defined using Knowledge Based Engineering (KBE). This parameteric product model needs to be initiated before global multidisciplinary optimisation can be performed. This paper presents the first phase in the development of an aerodynamic initiator tool. This tool combines all aspects of the aerodynamic design process, thereby allowing the designer to efficiently determine a feasible aircraft shape that can be used as an initial state for the MDO. This research is performed as part of the CleanEra project at the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering at Delft University of Technology. The Class-Shape-Transformation (CST) method is used to create a parameteric description of a blended-wing-body (BWB) aircraft. The method is then expanded to allow for more local control of the aircraft shape. The mathematical description of the BWB is then translated to an input for the panel method program VSAERO, which outputs a number of relevant flow characteristics. These are then fed into an optimisation algorithm which generates a new aircraft shape and the process is repeated. The CST method has proven to be very useful as a parameterisation tool. VSAERO is considered sufficient for the flow analysis for now, but should later be replaced by a Euler or Navier-Stokes code. Work on the optimiser will start later this year