Intuitive Class/Shape Function Parameterization for Airfoils

An airfoil parameterization method is proposed, which combines the flexibility and accuracy of Kulfan’s class/shape function transformation method and the intuitiveness of Sobieczky’s parameterization method for airfoil sections. The proposed intuitive class/shape function transformation method has been evaluated by comparing it with the class/shape function transformation and parameterization method for airfoil sections regarding their accuracy in inversely fitting a wide range of airfoils. The results show that the intuitive class/shape function transformation method is able to successfully transform the class/shape function transformation method into a fully intuitive parametric method (in which all of the design variables are aerodynamically related geometrical parameters) without loss of the accuracy and flexibility of the class/shape function transformation method for the airfoils tested.