Computer-augmented preliminary design of aircraft wing structures

Abstract

A computer system to aid in the preliminary design of aircraft wing structures for minimum weight is described. The system was developed to utilize effectively the best attributes of both computers and the human mind in the iterative process of analyzing highly redundant trial structures and using these results to select new trial structures with the objective of minimizing weight. The computer is used for the routine data processing, and the designer performs those tasks which require judgement and intuition. Cathode ray tube graphical displays are provided for checking input data and for evaluating results. From given basic information on the wing structure, loads, and material properties, a finite element model is developed, analyzed, modified to eliminate violations of design criteria, and optimized to obtain the structural configuration of least weight. The optimization proceeds automatically, but the designer may monitor progress with the aid of tabular and graphical displays and modify the direction in which the optimization is proceeding. The impetus for this work was provided by a need for such a system in teaching structural design to aeronautical engineering students. The modular system was developed for the Control Data Corporation 6400/6500 computer installation at Purdue University using the Purdue Interactive Remote Access Terminal Environment (PIRATE).