It is possible to define a novel design method, which aims overcoming both traditional, the traditional Multidisciplinary Design Optimization, and to solve a fundamental issue relating to the actual formalization of the Constructal optimization method. It aims only to enhance and integrate the constructal design method and aims to produce designs, which could be, optimized both at system level and subsystem definition. This novel method is based on the second principle of thermodynamics and the constructal law. It aims to produce a design process based on two steps. The first step aims producing a theoretical design of a system to reach energetic and operative optimization. The second aims to optimize the subcomponents of the system according the bottom up approach defined by constructal design optimization. A third step relating to the readiness against technology analysis is necessary to develop an effective industrial design. This method has named Constructal Design for Efficiency.
In this paper the authors, starting from the experience produced by the MAAT EU FP7, about the design of a cruiser-feeder and energy self sufficient airship for transport has produced the optimization of a medium altitude airship for transport, focused on the optimization of flying vehicle architecture to minimize by design the energy consumption during flight. The produced results allow defining a novel airship concept, which optimizes the airship shape to reach three fundamental energetic goals: energy consumption minimization; photovoltaic energy production maximization; definition of the conditions for energetically self-sufficient flight. The defined architecture can maximize the operative possibilities realizing an airship, which can ensure a point-to-point ground, based logistic models without any airport infrastructure with potential breakthrough impacts because of a better integration with any other terrestrial, maritime and aerial transport mode. Notwithstanding the use of hydrogen, it ensures an increased perception of safety by potential customers. It presents a safer ballooning architecture, without internal air ballonets, a cabin not directly attached to the bottom part of the balloon, which can be detached and piloted safely on the ground in case of serious accident during flight.