Scaled Aeroelastic Wind Tunnel Model Design with Topology Optimization

The goal of this work is to use numerical aeroelastic topology optimization to design flutter models to be tested in the Transonic Dynamics Tunnel, as part of an envisioned validation experiment for transonic flutter. The topological design develops the structural details of a variable-thickness aluminum plate located at the camber line of a scaled transport aircraft model, in order to satisfy the various conflicting design requirements, including a prescribed flutter boundary, flutter frequency, and static stress levels. Four designs are demonstrated here, where it is shown that the simultaneous design of a cylindrical tip store can help ease the conflict between low stiffness (to allow a wing to flutter in the tunnel envelope) and high strength (to ensure safe structural response). The tip store complicates the geometrical features of the wing, however, and is generally undesirable from the vantage point of a validation experiment.