Integrated Process Chain for Aerostructural Wing Optimization and Application to an NLF Forward Swept Composite Wing

Abstract

This contribution introduces an integrated process chain for aerostructural wing optimization based on high fidelity simulationmethods. The architecture of this process chain enables two of the most promising future technologies in commercial aircraft design in the context of multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO). These technologies are natural laminar flow (NLF) and aeroelastic tailoring using carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP). With this new approach the application of MDO to an NLF forward swept composite wing will be possible. The main feature of the process chain is the hierarchical decomposition of the optimization problem into two levels. On the highest level the wing planform including twist and airfoil thickness distributions as well as the orthotropy direction of the composite structure will be optimized. The lower optimization level includes the wing box sizing for essential load cases considering the static aeroelastic deformations. Additionally, the airfoil shapes are transferred from a given NLF wing design. The natural laminar flow is considered by prescribing laminar-turbulent transition locations. Results of wing design studies and a wing optimization using the process chain are presented for a forward swept wing aircraft configuration. The wing optimization with 12 design parameters shows a fuel burn reduction in the order of 9% for the design mission.