Two aerodynamic shape optimization geometry control methods, B-spline surface control and free-form deformation, are applied to three optimization problems and compared on the bases of optimal shape performance and problem setup ease of use. For both methods, the geometry is parameterized using B-spline surfaces with mesh movement accomplished using an efficient integrated technique. Gradients for the optimization algorithm are computed using the adjoint method. The first problem is a wing twist optimization under inviscid, subsonic flow, achieving an elliptical load distribution. The second is a lift-constrained drag minimization of a wing under transonic flow based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations. The third involves lift-to-drag-ratio maximization, based on the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations, beginning from a classically shaped blended wing–body aircraft and converging to a lifting-fuselage configuration. B-spline surface control is often found to result in slightly better performance; however, in general, both methods perform equally well. Free-form deformation provides a more general approach to problem setup, decoupling geometry control from parameterization. Overall, the results suggest that B-spline surface control is better suited for simple geometries, such as wings, whereas free-form deformation is better suited for complex geometries, such as unconventional aircraft, and for implementation with multistart algorithms and adaptive geometry control approaches.


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    Title :

    Comparison of B-Spline Surface and Free-Form Deformation Geometry Control for Aerodynamic Optimization



    Published in:

    Publication date :

    2017




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English



    Classification :

    BKL:    55.50 Luftfahrzeugtechnik / 55.60 Raumfahrttechnik / 55.60 / 50.93 / 55.50 / 50.93 Weltraumforschung
    Local classification TIB:    770/7040




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