Low-fidelity 2D isogeometric aeroelastic analysis and optimization method with application to a morphing airfoil

Abstract

Low-fidelity isogeometric aeroelastic analysis has not received much attention since the introduction of the isogeometric analysis (IGA) concept, while the combination of IGA and the boundary element method in the form of the potential flow theory shows great potential. This paper presents a two-dimensional low-fidelity aeroelastic analysis and optimization framework consisting of a closely coupled isogeometric potential flow model and isogeometric curved Timoshenko beam model combined with a boundary layer model. Application of the framework to the optimization of the landing performance for an active morphing airfoil demonstrates the potential of the isogeometric aeroelastic framework.