Integrated aerodynamic/structural design of a sailplane wingUsing lifting-line theory and beam analysis, the geometry (planiform and twist) and composite material structural sizes (skin thickness, spar cap, and web thickness) were designed for a sailplane wing, subject to both structural and aerodynamic constraints. For all elements, the integrated design (simultaneously designing the aerodynamics and the structure) was superior in terms of performance and weight to the sequential design (where the aerodynamic geometry is designed to maximize the performance, following which a structural/aeroelastic design minimizes the weight). Integrated designs produced less rigid, higher aspect ratio wings with favorable aerodynamic/structural interactions.
Document ID
19870030608
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Grossman, B. (Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State Univ. Blacksburg, VA, United States)
Gurdal, Z. (Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State Univ. Blacksburg, VA, United States)
Haftka, R. T. (Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Blacksburg, United States)
Strauch, G. J. (Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State Univ. Blacksburg, VA, United States)
Eppard, W. M. (Virginia Polytechnic Inst. and State Univ. Blacksburg, VA, United States)