Evaluation of Different Optimization Strategies for the Design of a High-Lift Flap Device

Abstract

The paper gives an overview of the optimization strategies studied within the MEGADESIGN project and their applications for solving the multi-point flap design defined within the European project Eurolift II. After a brief introduction of the test case definition, the solution procedure used at the DLR is depicted. More particularly, flap parameterization, mesh generation and flow solver are described. Three types of optimization strategy - evolutionary algorithm, deterministic gradient free approach and gradient based optimizer - are first tested on a coarse mesh to provide an insight into the design space and an assessment of their capability of finding the optimal solution. Finally, the most promising optimization strategies are used for the flap design on finer meshes. The optimized flaps are then analyzed to assess the meaningfulness of the design with respect to off design performance.