Aerodynamic optimization of double S-duct caret intake by self-adapting non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm

Abstract

The caret intake could not only provide compressed airflow to the aircraft engine stably but also should have applicable radar stealth performance. Radar stealth means that the echo intensity of the intake should be low when detected by radar, which could be measured by radar cross section (RCS). The airflow distribution of the double S-duct caret intake was numerically optimized to improve aerodynamic performance, with radar stealth performance as constraints. Self-adaptive genetic algorithm and Kriging model were used to improve the optimization efficiency. There could be multiple boundary-layer separations in the S-duct caret intake, resulting in obvious total pressure distortion at the outlet and secondary flow. To suppress these adverse airflow phenomena, the optimization of the double S-duct intake was defined as a problem with two targets and multiple constraints. By defining the probabilities of selection and variation as functions of the iteration number and the fitness, the self-adapting non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm can be applicable for such a problem. Using the Kriging model, which was proven to have satisfactory accuracy in predicting performance parameters, an optimized intake with both excellent aerodynamic and stealth performance was obtained, with a 30% reduction in DC60 value and a 47% reduction in SC60 value compared to the intake before optimization.