Multidisciplinary Design Opimization (MDO)

A Cartesian, multigrid, Euler solver is investigated for development as a module suitable for the multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) environment. The ultimate objective is not to improve the Euler solver (it is already a mature code) but rather to augment or replace the linear panel method flow solvers used in the Automated Structural Optimization System (ASTROS) for the purpose of airframe design optimization. The Euler solver, MGAERO, uses Cartesioan, not body-fitted grids, and components are independently defined for geometric versatility. It has demonstrated the ability to predict leading-edge vortices and shock capturing; consequently, challenging design problems, such as complete wing/body/nacelle shape tailoring, can be addressed. To investigate the requirements needed for integration of Euler solver, a study will be made of an aeroeleastic analysis at Mach 1.25 of the Multidisciplinary Wing described in the ASTRES Applications manual. The study will describe the modifications of the Euler solver and enhancements to ASTROS needed to perform suchan analysis, as well as a comparison to the results obtained from the present flow solver.