Aerodynamic and Acoustic Design Optimization of a Multiple Propeller Combination for Distributed Electrical Propulsion

Abstract

This manuscript illustrates an optimization procedure carried out on a large-scale wind tunnel model conceived to investigate the aerodynamic and acoustic performance of a Distributed Electric Propulsion (DEP) system installed on the wings of a regional aircraft in high lift conditions. The aim of the optimization process is to obtain the best possible improvements in terms of noise and aerodynamic performance by modifying the propellers' layout of the Wing + DEP wind tunnel model. A multi-objective, multi-point design approach is adopted based on evolutionary computing. The research work is carried out in the framework of the VENUS EU-funded project GA-886019.

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