Genetic optimization of target pressure distributions for inverse design methods

Abstract

A genetic algorithm has been applied to optimize target pressure distributions for inverse design methods. Pressure distributions around airfoils are parameterized by B-spline polygons, and the airfoil drag is minimized under constraints on lift, airfoil thickness, and other design principles. Once target pressure distributions are obtained, corresponding airfoil/wing geometries can be computed by an inverse design code coupled with a Navier-Stokes solver. Successful design results were obtained for transonic cases with and without a shock wave.