A model-based shape conceptual design framework of blend-wing-body underwater gliders with curved wings

ABSTRACT

The lift-drag ratio (L/D) and volume of the shape have a significant influence on the gliding range and carrying capacity of Blend-Wing-Body Underwater Gliders (BWBUGs). In this research, a model-based shape design framework for BWBUGs with curved wings is proposed in the conceptual design stage. This framework presents a parameterisation method of BWBUGs with curved wings, and multi-software collaboration technology is adopted to automatically evaluate the shape performance (hydrodynamic analysis and volume). A data-driven optimisation technique is integrated into this design framework to enhance the performance of the shape for BWBUGs. Finally, a series of solutions are generated using the suggested framework, demonstrating its viability and effectiveness for BWBUG shape design optimisation during the conceptual design stage.

KEYWORDS:

• Blended-wing-body underwater glider
• model-based shape design
• conceptual design
• curved wing
• data-driven optimisation
• hydrodynamic analysis

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Data availability statement

The authors confirm that the data supporting the findings of this study are available within the article.

Additional information

Funding

This project is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [grant number 52205268, 52175251, 51875466] and the National Basic Scientific Research Program under Grant of JCKY2021206B005. Besides, the research work is also supported by the Innovation Foundation for Doctor Dissertation of Northwestern Polytechnical University.