Optimization of a Rotor with Morphing Blades using Particle Swarm Algorithm

Abstract

A particle swarm optimization is used to investigate the optimal morphing parameters for a chord morphing rotor concept, which is developed by the German Aerospace Center (DLR) under the framework of the European project SABRE. Since the morphing parameters can be dependent on the application of the helicopter, three different missions are chosen to be observed. The particle swarm optimization is implemented and set up to solve single and multi-objective problems, defined in three scenarios. Scenario 1 covers only power, whereas scenario 2 adds tip elastic torsion and scenario 3 also includes vibratory hub loads. A two leveled particle swarm algorithm is described, to cover full missions as opposed to single velocities. The effect of missions on the optimal morphing parameters is analyzed and optimal chord morphing parameters are presented per scenario, mission and velocity. The particle swarm optimization is shown to find rotor geometries, that use less power than the baseline rotor, while keeping structural and vibrational strains within limits.