Eventos Anais de eventos
COBEM 2021
26th International Congress of Mechanical Engineering
A Study On Airfoil Optimization With Genetic Algorithms
Submission Author:
Giovana Weffort Fernandes , SP
Co-Authors:
Giovana Weffort Fernandes, Manuel Barcelos Júnior
Presenter: Giovana Weffort Fernandes
doi://10.26678/ABCM.COBEM2021.COB2021-0586
Abstract
The work in hand deals with the optimization of aeronautical use airfoils through genetic algorithms. Optimization techniques are essential in a wide range of applications. In the field of aeronautics, specifically, an aircraft's performance may improve by optimizing various aspects, including the design of the airfoils. The objective is to find the most efficient airfoils possible for specific flight conditions, defining a Reynolds number and an angle of attack. These efficiencies are measured with the lift to drag ratio, or L/D. Two types of geometric parametrization were used: the NACA 4-digit configuration and the CST (Class and Shape function Transformation) method, which allows for more design freedom. The algorithm runs on MATLAB in conjunction to XFOIL, which is used to provide the aerodynamic data for the airfoils. After performing tests regarding the reliability and functionality of the algorithm, we ran it under a set of case studies using both geometric parametrizations. The CST parametrization proved to provide better solutions than the NACA airfoils due to its more extensive design capabilities. The results demonstrate the promising capabilities of a genetic algorithm with CST implemented, allowing for further improvements of the optimization process according to the design necessity.
Keywords
airfoil, genetic algorithm, XFOIL, cst, naca
