Aerodynamic design optimization using Euler equations and variational methods. (Q5955393)

An optimization methodology, which is completely based on variational methods, is developed to solve a design problem in fluid-dynamical distributed parameter systems. The partial differential equations are solved iteratively to get the functional derivative coefficients. These derivative coefficients combined with the flow field variables are used to find the boundary shape which extremizes the functional performance index. To demonstrate the method, the shape of a nozzle is optimized for maximum thrust. In the purely supersonic flow case, the gain in thrust is remarkably high. Even in the supersonic-inlet-subsonic outlet and the purely subsonic cases, the improvement of the thrust is found to be substantial.