Aeroelastic Optimization Benchmark Investigations Using ESP, FUN3D,TACS, and FUNtoFEM

The development of next generation aircraft concepts requires toolsets that can inject higher-fidelity, multidisciplinary physics earlier into the design process. These tools need to both be developed and verified, hence the introduction of the Aeroelastic Optimization Benchmark working group. This paper examines the aeroelastic optimization of a transonic benchmark wing, as part of the Aeroelastic Optimization Benchmark, using a software toolset of Engineering Sketch Pad, FUN3D, TACS, and FUNtoFEM. In this work, we run the standard benchmark analysis cases for aerodynamic, structural, and coupled aeroelastic analysis and run optimization case 1 for structural sizing. Standard benchmark results compare well with previous year’s participants and provide confidence in modeling choices. The optimization results in an 11% reduction in structural mass of the wingbox from a notional fixed pressure load to the fully coupled RANS aeroelastic optimization case. Challenges with computational cost are identified and points of mitigation are discussed.