Future aircraft concepts and design methods. (6th January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: McDonald, Robert A.; German, Brian J.; Takahashi, T.; Bil, C.; Anemaat, W.; Chaput, A.; Vos, R.; Harrison, N.
• Is Part Of: Aeronautical journal. Volume 126:Number 1295(2022)
• Page Start: 92
• Page End: 124
• Publication Date: 2022-01-06
• Subjects: Aircraft configurations -- Design methods -- Electric propulsion -- Sustainability -- Emission reduction; Aeronautics -- Periodicals; 629.1305
• DOI: 10.1017/aer.2021.110
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0001-9240

Abstract

Abstract: With an annual growth in travel demand of about 5% globally, managing the environmental impact is a challenge. In 2019, the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) issued emission reduction targets, including well-to-wake greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduced at least 50% from 2005 levels by 2050. This discusses several technologies from an aircraft design perspective that can contribute to achieving these targets. One thing is certain: aircraft will look different in the future. The Transonic Truss-Braced Wing and Flying V configurations are promising significant efficiency improvements over conventional configurations. Electric propulsion, in various architectures, is becoming a feasible option for general aviation and commuter aircraft. It will be a growing field of aviation with zero-emissions flight and opportunities for special missions. Lastly, this paper discusses methods and design processes that include all relevant disciplines to ensure that the aircraft is optimised as a complete system. While empirical methods are essential for initial design, Multidisciplinary Design Optimisation (MDO) incorporates models and simulations integrated in an optimisation environment to capture critical trade-offs. Concurrent design places domain experts in one site to facilitate collaboration, interaction, and joint decision-making, and to ensure all disciplines are equally considered. It is supported by a Collaborative Design Facility (CDF), an information technology facility with connected hardware and software tools for design analysis.