Optimization process for configuration of flexible joined-wing

An optimized configuration design utilizing both structural and aerodynamic analyses of a flexible joined-wing configuration is presented in this paper. The joined-wing aircraft concept fulfills a proposed long-endurance surveillance mission and incorporates a load-bearing antenna structure embedded in the wing skin. Aerodynamic, structural, and optimization analyses are completed a number of times. A range of joined-wing configurations were trimmed for critical flight conditions and then structurally optimized for trimmed flight and gust loads to achieve a minimum weight for each configuration. A response surface statistical analysis was then applied to determine optimal joined-wing aircraft configurations. The response surface showed trends in the design of lightweight joined-wing aircraft. The revised version of this paper was presented at the 10th MAO Multidisciplinary Analysis and Optimization Conference, August 30–September 1, 2004.