A CAD-Free and a CAD-Based Geometry Control System for Aerodynamic Shape Optimization,” AIAA Paper 2005–0451

Abstract

The performance of an aerodynamic shape optimization routine is greatly dependent on its geometry control system. This system must accurately parameterize the initial geometry and generate a flexible set of design variables for the optimization cycle. It must also generate new instances of the geometry based on the changes to the design variables dictated by the optimization routine. In response to changes in the geometry, it is also desirable to generate a new surface grid with the same topology as the original grid. This new surface grid can be used to perturb the associated volume grid. This paper presents two geometry control systems, a CAD-free system, and a CATIA V5 CAD-based system. The two systems provide practical tools for aerodynamic optimization. They also provide a basis for comparing CAD-free and CAD-based systems and understanding additional issues that need to be addressed in order to develop reliable optimization systems