Optimal Morphing-Wing Design Using Parallel Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II

The focus of this paper is an optimal design of morphing aircraft wings employing a wing structure composed of an internal layout of cables and struts. Cables are used to provide actuation and stiffness, and struts provide stiffness without actuation. Topology optimization is used to place cables and struts in a bay or a section of the wing. Nonlinear finite element analysis is used to capture the large deformations of the structure, and the optimization is achieved using the Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II. The optimization procedure is illustrated using a morphing wing example. The effect of the upper limit on actuation forces is studied, and solutions are found with good agreement between the desired and obtained deflections under actuation and aerodynamic loads. The implemented parallelized optimization algorithm is successful in solving a computationally intense, multi-objective, multiconstraint problem with a large number of discrete and continuous design variables in a reasonable amount of time.