Multi-objective optimization for the multiphase design of active polymorphing wings

Abstract

Advanced studies have been undertaken using multidisciplinary design optimization on the retrofitting of an outboard morphing-wing system to an existing conventionally designed commercial passenger jet. Initial studies focusing on the single objective of specific air range improvement for a number of flight phases revealed increases of approximately 4–5% over the baseline aircraft with wing fences across each case. This validated the advantage of reoptimizing the geometric schedules for off-design conditions in comparison with fixed winglets, for which negative effects were observed. Because of the high number of design sensitivities of the outboard wing geometry, it has now become necessary to conduct refined studies to analyze the effects of the wing system on additional operational performance metrics, such as takeoff, initial climb, approach climb, and landing performance parameters, to ascertain a truly holistic representation of the benefits of morphing-wing technology. In addition, further effort has been expended to couple the effects of each phase within a multi-objective framework. Thus, refined studies have been performed, incorporating a number of multi-objective optimization methods into a high-end, low-fidelity aerostructural-control analysis together with a full engine model and integrated operational performance algorithm. Furthermore, updated aeroelastic functionality and improved aerostructural wing sizing allows for investigation of C-wing configurations. Results reveal the potential for significant field-length reductions and climb-performance enhancements while maintaining improvements in cruise performance throughout the entire flight envelope and
across multiple stage lengths.

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