Multi-objective and multi-disciplinary design using evolutionary methods applied to aerospace design problems

Abstract

The design of real complex objects or systems is characterised by a multi-disciplinary approach. This article presents the methodology of multi-objective and multi-disciplinary design of aerodynamic objects, using optimisation. The in-house software ParaDes using Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines is a key element for the parametric modelling of aerodynamic objects. A multi-objective Genetic Algorithm is used for optimisation. Selected examples of a successful design solution are: (i) the design of a forward swept wing with natural laminar flow; (ii) the design of wings for low-speed turbo-prop small aircraft and small business jet aircraft; (iii) the design of a helicopter fuselage with and without rotor influence. In each case, the definition of the design problem, the objectives and constraints and the basic properties of the evaluation tools are discussed.