Automated Vortex Lattice Method Based Design Optimization of a Hydrogen Powered Aircraft

Abstract

This paper describes the methods used for implementation of an automated vortex lattice method based design optimization of a futuristic carbon free liquid hydrogen (LH2) powered commercial aircraft. Employing drag and weight estimation techniques, propulsion performance estimates, and a Breguet Range equation solver in conjunction with vortex lattice method based aerodynamic performance characteristic estimations, numerous aircraft configurations can be analyzed and optimized using multidisciplinary design optimization methods. The analytical/computational methods used were first tested for the design and optimization of a Boeing 737-800 based aircraft and they produced almost identical results to that for an actual Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The same methods were then applied to the design of zero emission, liquid hydrogen powered alternative aircrafts with LH2 tanks placed inside or outside the fuselage to the existing modern commercial aircrafts.