A novel implementation of computational aerodynamic shape optimisation using Modified Cuckoo Search

This paper outlines a new computational aerodynamic design optimisation algorithm using a novel method of parameterising a computational mesh using ‘control nodes’. The shape boundary movement as well as the mesh movement is coupled to the movement of user–defined control nodes via a Delaunay Graph Mapping technique. A Modified Cuckoo Search algorithm is employed for optimisation within the prescribed design space defined by the allowed range of control node displacement. A finite volume compressible Navier–Stokes solver is used for aerodynamic modelling to predict aerodynamic design ‘fitness’. The resulting coupled algorithm is applied to a range of test cases in two dimensions including aerofoil lift–drag ratio optimisation intake duct optimisation under subsonic, transonic and supersonic flow conditions. The discrete (mesh–based) optimisation approach presented is demonstrated to be effective in terms of its generalised applicability and intuitiveness.