Aerodynamic Design Optimization of a Morphing Leading Edge and Trailing Edge Airfoil–Application on the UAS-S45

Abstract

This work presents an aerodynamic optimization method for a Droop Nose Leading Edge (DNLE) and Morphing Trailing Edge (MTE) of a UAS-S45 root airfoil by using Bezier-PARSEC parameterization. The method is performed using a hybrid optimization technique based on a Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm combined with a Pattern Search algorithm. This is needed to provide an efficient exploitation of the potential configurations obtained by the PSO algorithm. The drag minimization and the endurance maximization were investigated for these configurations individually as two single-objective optimization functions. The aerodynamic calculations in the optimization framework were performed using the XFOIL solver with flow transition estimation criteria, and these results were next validated with a Computational Fluid Dynamics solver using the Transition $\left(\gamma -R{e}_{\theta }\right)$ Shear Stress Transport (SST) turbulence model. The optimization was conducted at different flight conditions. Both the DNLE and MTE optimized airfoils showed a significant improvement in the overall aerodynamic performance, and MTE airfoils increased the efficiency of C_L^3/2/C_D by 10.25%, indicating better endurance performance. Therefore, both DNLE and MTE configurations show promising results in enhancing the aerodynamic efficiency of the UAS-S45 airfoil.