Daniel Muradas Odriozola, Sylvie Marquier, Joseph Morlier, Christian Gogu
DOI Number: N/A
Conference number: IFASD-2024-025
As part of ongoing efforts for cleaner and more efficient aviation, this research introduces a novel Multidisciplinary Optimisation (MDO) strategy for the weight optimisation of High Aspect Ratio (HAR) wings involving active load alleviation. The study focuses on implementing a Load Alleviation Function (LAF) to reduce wingbox structural loads during
manoeuvres or gust encounters by redistributing lift inboard using movable control surfaces [1]. Building upon previous work [2], this MDO process aims to redefine control surface sizing and positioning for an optimised load alleviation while preserving the primary goal of ensuring effective aircraft manoeuvrability. An HAR wing concept is an enabler for enhancing the aircraft overall efficiency, however, it is typically heavier than its lower aspect ratio counterpart. Additionally, it leads to greater flexibility in the wing, directly influencing the efficiency of the control surface and potentially leading to issues such as the control surface reversal phenomena. The challenge thus lies in defining a control surface concept to allow a weight reduction through load alleviation thanks to an optimal position and size of control surfaces, while simultaneously satisfying certification criteria for aircraft manoeuvrability across a diverse set of flight scenarios and ensuring a flutter-free design. To achieve this, an MDO approach is being considered in this work, intended to cover relevant Loads conditions and Handling Quality (HQ) criteria considered for certification such as roll capabilities. The implemented MDO approach considers the following disciplines, static aeroelastic analysis, structural optimisation, flutter constraints, aircraft manoeuvre trimming, handling qualities efficiency assessment, and its associated validation between classic wing concept versus high aspect ratio.