Genetic Algorithm with Surrogate Wake Inflow Models for Helicopter Rotor Optimal Design

"An optimal procedure for the design of helicopter main rotors that generate low vibratory hub. loads in advancing flight is presented. Blade shape and structural properties are the design. parameters to be identified within a binary genetic optimization algorithm, under aeroelastic. stability constraint. The optimization process applies an aeroelastic tool for helicopter rotors. that is based on a nonlinear, beam-like model, suited for the analysis of arbitrary curved-elastic-. axis blades, with the introduction of surrogate wake inflow models for the analysis of sectional. aerodynamic loads. Numerical results are presented to demonstrate the capability of the pro-. posed approach to identify low vibratory hub loads rotor blades, as well as, to assess the effects. of different surrogate wake models on the optimal search process and the robustness of solution. at off-design operating conditions. Further, the aeroacoustic assessment of the optimal rotor. is performed to examine the impact of low-vibration blade design on the acoustic annoyance generated.. "