Aerodynamic/control integrated optimization method for unpowered high-speed vehicle configuration design

Abstract

The unpowered high-speed vehicle experiences a significant coupling between the disciplines of aerodynamics and control due to its characteristics of high flight speed and extensive maneuverability within large airspace. The conventional aircraft conceptual design process follows a sequential design approach, and there is an artificial separation between the disciplines of aerodynamics and control, neglecting the coupling effects arising from their interaction. As a result, this design process often requires extensive iterations over long periods when applied to high-speed vehicles, and may not be able to effectively achieve the desired design objectives. To enhance the overall performance and design efficiency of high-speed vehicles, this study integrates the concept of Active Control Technology (ACT) from modern aircraft into the philosophy of aerodynamic/control integrated optimization. Two integrated optimization strategies, with differences in coupling granularity, have been developed. Subsequently, these strategies are put into action on a biconical vehicle that operates at Mach 5. The results reveal that the comprehensive performance of the synthesis optimal model derived from the aerodynamic/control integrated optimization strategy is improved by 31.76% and 28.29% respectively compared to the base model under high-speed conditions, demonstrating the feasibility and effectiveness of the method and optimization strategies employed. Moreover, in comparison to the single-stage strategy, the multi-stage strategy takes into deeper consideration the impact of control capacity. As a result, the control performance of the synthesis optimal model derived from the multi-stage strategy improves by 13.99%, whereas the single-stage strategy only achieves a 5.79% improvement. This method enables a fruitful interaction between aerodynamic configuration design and control system design, leading to enhanced overall performance and design efficiency. Furthermore, it improves the controllability of high-speed vehicles, mitigating the risk of mission failure resulting from an ineffective control system.