A case for multi-level optimisation in aeronautical design

Autor: G. M. Robinson, Andy J. Keane
Rok vydání: 1999
Předmět:
Zdroj: The Aeronautical Journal. 103:481-485
ISSN: 2059-6464
0001-9240
DOI: 10.1017/s0001924000064435
Popis: This paper discusses how the inevitable limitations of computing power available to designers has restricted adoption of optimisation as an essential design tool. It is argued that this situation will continue until optimisation algorithms are developed which utilise the range of available analysis methods in a manner more like human designers. The concept of multi-level algorithms is introduced and a case made for their adoption as the way forward. The issues to be addressed in the development of multi-level algorithms are highlighted.The paper goes on to discuss a system developed at Southampton University to act as a test bed for multi-level algorithms deployed on a realistic design task. The Southampton University multi-level wing design environment integrates drag estimation algorithms ranging from an empirical code to an Euler CFD code, covering a 150,000 fold difference in computational cost. A simple multi-level optimisation of a civil transport aircraft wing is presented.
Databáze: OpenAIRE