Using a genetic algorithm for structural topology design of helicopter rotor blades

2001 ◽  
Author(s):  
David Fanjoy ◽  
William Crossley
Keyword(s):  
Genetic Algorithm ◽  
Rotor Blades ◽  
Topology Design ◽  
Helicopter Rotor ◽  
Structural Topology ◽  
Helicopter Rotor Blades ◽  
Structural Topology Design

Genetic Algorithm-Based Structural Topology Design With Compliance and Topology Simplification Considerations

1996 ◽  
Vol 118 (1) ◽  
pp. 89-98 ◽  
Author(s):  
C. D. Chapman ◽  
M. J. Jakiela
Keyword(s):  
Genetic Algorithm ◽  
Topology Optimization ◽  
Optimization Technique ◽  
Topology Design ◽  
Structural Topology Optimization ◽  
Structural Topology ◽  
Design Representation ◽  
Homogenization Methods ◽  
Future Work ◽  
Structural Topology Design

The genetic algorithm (GA), an optimization technique based on the theory of natural selection, is applied to structural topology design problems. After reviewing the genetic algorithm and previous research in structural topology optimization, we detail the chromosome-to-design representation which enables the genetic algorithm to perform structural topology optimization. Extending our prior investigations, this article first compares our genetic-algorithm-based technique with homogenization methods in the minimization of a structure’s compliance subject to a maximum volume constraint. We then use our technique to generate topologies combining high structural performance with a variety of material connectivity characteristics which arise directly from our discretized design representation. After discussing our findings, we describe potential future work.

Genetic Algorithm-Based Structural Topology Design With Compliance and Manufacturability Considerations

1994 ◽  
Author(s):  
Colin D. Chapman ◽  
Mark J. Jakiela
Keyword(s):  
Genetic Algorithm ◽  
Optimization Technique ◽  
Weight Ratio ◽  
Topology Design ◽  
Structural Topology ◽  
Programming Technique ◽  
Design Representation ◽  
Homogenization Methods ◽  
Future Work ◽  
Structural Topology Design

Abstract The genetic algorithm, a search and optimization technique based on the theory of natural selection, is applied to structural topology design problems with compliance and manufacturability considerations. After describing the genetic algorithm and reviewing previous research in structural topology design, we detail the chromosome-to-design representation which enables the genetic algorithm to perform structural topology optimization. Extending our prior investigations, this article details the use of our genetic algorithm-based technique to minimize a structure’s compliance, subject to a maximum volume constraint. The resulting structure is then directly compared with a solution obtained using a mathematical programming technique and material homogenization methods. We also demonstrate how our technique can generate structures which combine high stiffness-to-weight ratio with high manufacturability. After a brief discussion of our findings, we describe potential future work in genetic algorithm-based structural topology design.

scholarly journals Genetic Algorithms as an Approach to Configuration and Topology Design

1994 ◽  
Vol 116 (4) ◽  
pp. 1005-1012 ◽  
Author(s):  
C. D. Chapman ◽  
K. Saitou ◽  
M. J. Jakiela
Keyword(s):  
Genetic Algorithm ◽  
Topology Optimization ◽  
Optimization Technique ◽  
Topology Design ◽  
Structural Topology Optimization ◽  
Structural Topology ◽  
Design Representation ◽  
Future Work ◽  
Structural Topology Design ◽  
Algorithm Search

The genetic algorithm, a search and optimization technique based on the theory of natural selection, is applied to problems of structural topology design. An overview of the genetic algorithm will first describe the genetics-based representations and operators used in a typical genetic algorithm search. Then, a review of previous research in structural optimization is provided. A discretized design representation, and methods for mapping genetic algorithm “chromosomes” into this representation, is then detailed. Several examples of genetic algorithm-based structural topology optimization are provided: we address the optimization of cantilevered plate topologies, and we investigate methods for optimizing finely-discretized design domains. The genetic algorithm’s ability to find families of highly-fit designs is also examined. Finally, a description of potential future work in genetic algorithm-based structural topology optimization is offered.

scholarly journals A Comprehensive Optimization Design Method of Aerodynamic, Acoustic, and Stealth of Helicopter Rotor Blades Based on Genetic Algorithm

2019 ◽  
Vol 2019 ◽  
pp. 1-12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mingxu Yi ◽  
Yalin Pan ◽  
Jun Huang ◽  
Lifeng Wang ◽  
Dawei Liu
Keyword(s):  
Genetic Algorithm ◽  
Optimization Design ◽  
Design Method ◽  
Integrated Design ◽  
Optimization Method ◽  
Rotor Blades ◽  
Helicopter Rotor ◽  
Optimization Approach ◽  
Design Variables ◽  
Helicopter Rotor Blades

In this paper, a comprehensive optimization approach is presented to analyze the aerodynamic, acoustic, and stealth characteristics of helicopter rotor blades in hover flight based on the genetic algorithm (GA). The aerodynamic characteristics are simulated by the blade element momentum theory. And the acoustics are computed by the Farassat theory. The stealth performances are calculated through the combination of physical optics (PO) and equivalent currents (MEC). Furthermore, an advanced geometry representation algorithm which applies the class function/shape function transformation (CST) is introduced to generate the airfoil coordinates. This method is utilized to discuss the airfoil shape in terms of server design variables. The aerodynamic, acoustic, and stealth integrated design aims to achieve the minimum radar cross section (RCS) under the constraint of aerodynamic and acoustic requirement through the adjustment of airfoil shape design variables. Two types of rotor are used to illustrate the optimization method. The results obtained in this work show that the proposed technique is effective and acceptable.

Circulation Control Span-Wise Blowing Location Optimization for a Helicopter Rotor Blade

2010 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alan M. Didion ◽  
Jonathan Kweder ◽  
Mary Ann Clarke ◽  
James E. Smith
Keyword(s):  
Stress Reduction ◽  
Rotor Blades ◽  
Helicopter Rotor ◽  
Base Line ◽  
Control Technology ◽  
Circulation Control ◽  
High Lift ◽  
Location Optimization ◽  
Helicopter Rotor Blades ◽  
Length Reduction

Circulation control technology has proven itself useful in the area of short take-off and landing (STOL) fixed wing aircraft by decreasing landing and takeoff distances, increasing maneuverability and lift at lower speeds. The application of circulation control technology to vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) rotorcraft could also prove quite beneficial. Successful adaptation to helicopter rotor blades is currently believed to yield benefits such as increased lift, increased payload capacity, increased maneuverability, reduction in rotor diameter and a reduction in noise. Above all, the addition of circulation control to rotorcraft as controlled by an on-board computer could provide the helicopter with pitch control as well as compensate for asymmetrical lift profiles from forward flight without need for a swashplate. There are an infinite number of blowing slot configurations, each with separate benefits and drawbacks. This study has identified three specific types of these configurations. The high lift configuration would be beneficial in instances where such power is needed for crew and cargo, little stress reduction is offered over the base line configuration. The stress reduction configuration on the other hand, however, offers little extra lift but much in the way of increased rotor lifespan and shorter rotor length. Finally, the middle balanced configuration offers a middle ground between the two extremes. With this configuration, the helicopter benefits in all categories of lift, stress reduction and blade length reduction.

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