An aeroelastic optimisation framework for manufacturable variable stiffness composite wings including critical gust loads

Abstract This work presents a new aeroelastic optimisation framework for the preliminary design of variable stiffness composite wing structures. The is constructed by sequentially and iteratively solving two sub-problems: tailoring lay-up retrieval, using gradient-based algorithms with full-analytical sensitivities provided. During tailoring, mass minimised optimising lamination parameters thickness laminates together jig twist distribution. load cases cover not only static loads, but also critical gust loads that are identified across entire flight envelop at every iteration optimisation. Further, cruise shape constraint included in addition to other aerostructural constraints, so optimal aircraft performance can be ensured. manufacturable stacking sequence retrieved according consideration minimal steering radius constraint. Moreover, fix possible violations caused correction strategy incorporated tighten violated constraints repeating tailoring. Finally, several case studies on NASA common research model carried out investigated. results indicate have large influence tow-steered structures, which therefore demonstrate usefulness benefits proposed framework.