Integrated multidisciplinary topology optimization approach to adaptive wing design

This paper presents a novel optimization approach to the design of mechanisms in morphing aircraft structures. The layout of the mechanism and the location and number of actuators and pivots are determined by an extended formulation of a material-based topology optimization. The design problem is modeled within a coupled fluidstructure analysis framework to directly assess aerodynamic performance criteria while optimizing the overall mechanized system. The proposed methodology is illustrated through the design optimization of a quasi-three-dimensional section of an adaptive wing, where the approach is compared to a conventional two-step approach of first optimizing the aerodynamic shape for one or multiple flight conditions, and then finding the mechanism that leads to this shape. The comparison shows that the interactions between flow, structural deformation, mechanism, and actuator must be considered to find the optimal solution. The optimization approach presented allows direct consideration of these interactions at the expense of an increased computational burden.