A Framework of Aircraft Wing Design Optimization at Various Atmospheric Conditions

Abstract

This study introduces a gradient-based optimization framework for aircraft wing design tailored to varying atmospheric conditions. The optimization process incorporates key aerodynamic and structural considerations, including lift, drag, air density, and bending stress constraints, within a Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (MDO) framework. The design variables—wingspan and chord length—are optimized to minimize operational power while maintaining structural integrity. A BFGS gradient-based optimizer with a backtracking line search algorithm was selected after evaluating multiple optimization techniques, demonstrating superior efficiency and accuracy. Numerical results reveal that constrained designs favor reduced wingspan and increased chord length, preserving aerodynamic and structural performance compared to unconstrained solutions. Additionally, the study highlights the inverse relationship between wing area and pressure levels as a critical factor for optimal wing design.  Given the dependency of air density and dynamic pressure on altitude, the framework offers flexibility to adapt designs for diverse environmental conditions. This approach provides an efficient and validated solution for energy-efficient, structurally robust wing designs, with broad applicability in aerospace engineering.