CFD-Based Shape Optimisation with Grid-Enabled Design Search Toolkits

This paper presents an application of applying Grid computing technologies in the field of engineering design optimisation using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Three essential elements in CFD-based shape optimisation problems (CAD, mesh generation, and solution) are integrated and automated within the Matlab scripting environment augmented with Grid-enabled computation and database toolkits in the form of Matlab functions. The toolkits allow easy access to remote computational resources and data archive capabilities. A design search and optimisation package is exposed to Matlab users in various ways and applied to an engine nacelle shape optimisation problem. A response surface model is constructed and searches conducted on it reveal the effect of negative scarf angle on the aerodynamic performance of the nacelle.