A Density based Volume of Solid Geometry Parameterisation Method For Aerodynamic Topology Optimisation

View Video Presentation: https://doi.org/10.2514/6.2023-3310.vid A topologically flexible parameterisation method is presented based on a volume-matching diffusive partial differential model. The design variables are the required volumes specified on a control grid. The differential system controls a material distribution on a sub-grid to create a shape such that those target volumes in control cells are matched, with a surface of approximately minimum area. This permits geometric and topological changes within a single scheme, alongside variable fidelity optimisation through anisotropic refinement of the control grid. This parameterisation is applied to a set of aerodynamic topology optimisation cases involving the design of a corner duct. The duct geometry was optimised such as to minimise the static pressure difference required to drive a specified mass flux. This resulted in the construction of turning vanes and modifications to the walls of the duct, achieving across all cases at least a 95% reduction is pressure difference compared to the baseline duct.