Enabling of Large Scale Aerodynamic Shape Optimization Through POD-Based Reduced-Order Modeling and Free Form Deformation

Abstract

We present an approach for shape optimization of large-scale aerodynamic problems, combining free-form deformation and POD based reduced-order modeling. An extension of the classical Free-Form Deformation techniques is derived in order to handle efficiently constraints regarding fixed and deformable portions of the geometry and to impose the smoothness at the interface between the two different regions. The second aspect concerns the development of a hybrid model, combining a POD-based reduced order model and a industrial CFD solver using a domain-decomposition approach. A method on how determining automatically a suitable domain decomposition is discussed. The effectiveness and drawback of the above techniques are highlighted on a large-scale aerodynamic shape optimization and control problem, i.e. the mainsail thrust optimization of a sailing boat.