Automated Optimization of the MULDICON Inlet with Minimum Losses and Reduced Sight onto the Compressor Front Face

Abstract

The main target of the DLR project Mephisto is to achieve a holistic design capability for a UCAV configuration in military use. In order to ensure survivability of the aircraft a reduction of the visibility of the fan area for preventing radar and infrared detection is necessary. In addition, the flow losses should be kept as low as possible and a homogeneous inflow to the engine should be achieved. Therefore, an S-shaped engine intake duct is designed via automated optimization. Within this optimization process 27 free geometrical parameters are varied to design the intake duct, considering aerodynamic flow field characteristics. The optimized S-duct geometries show a significant visibility reduction onto the engine compressor unit, with tolerable total pressure losses and acceptable flow inhomogeneities.