Aerodynamic Design Optimization of a Morphing Leading Edge and Trailing Edge Airfoil–Application on the UAS-S45

Abstract

This work presents an aerodynamic optimization method for a Droop Nose Leading Edge (DNLE) and Morphing Trailing Edge (MTE) of a UAS-S45 root airfoil by using Bezier-PARSEC parameterization. The method is performed using a hybrid optimization technique based on a Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm combined with a Pattern Search algorithm. This is needed to provide an efficient exploitation of the potential configurations obtained by the PSO algorithm. The drag minimization and the endurance maximization were investigated for these configurations individually as two single-objective optimization functions. The aerodynamic calculations in the optimization framework were performed using the XFOIL solver with flow transition estimation criteria, and these results were next validated with a Computational Fluid Dynamics solver using the Transition Shear Stress Transport (SST) turbulence model. The optimization was conducted at different flight conditions. Both the DNLE and MTE optimized airfoils showed a significant improvement in the overall aerodynamic performance, and MTE airfoils increased the efficiency of CL3/2/CD by 10.25%, indicating better endurance performance. Therefore, both DNLE and MTE configurations show promising results in enhancing the aerodynamic efficiency of the UAS-S45 airfoil.

Structural Sizing and Topology Optimization Based on Weight Minimization of a Variable Tapered Span-Morphing Wing for Aerodynamic Performance Improvements

“…As described in the previous sections, aerodynamic analysis and optimization were conducted on the VSMTW for the UAS-S4 under different flight conditions [50]. Thus, their results were then integrated into the optimization problem.…”

Computational analysis and design of an aerofoil with morphing tail for improved aerodynamic performance in transonic regime

“…For UAVs applications in particular, the potential of morphing technology has been thoroughly studied. In Bashir et al [36], the potential of a morphing root aerofoil for a UAV was studied numerically. Following a thorough optimisation at different flight conditions, an improved aerodynamic performance was found when using a morphing trailing edge or a droop nose leading edge.…”

Editorial for the Special Issue “Aircraft Modeling and Simulation”

“…In the first group, focused on the aerodynamics or computational fluid dynamics (CFD) areas or research, two articles were published on the following: the first covered aerodynamics analyses applications on the droop nose leading edge (DNLE) with the morphing trailing edge (MTE) combination for the UAS-S45 morphing wing [1]; the second was focused on the following four different configurations: a flat plate, an airfoil nearwake, a backward-facing step, and a turbine cascade, also called the eleventh standard configuration [2]. These aerodynamic studies were performed using various CFD in-house and commercial software, and their results were validated with experimental data provided in the literature.…”