Analysis of the Oblique Flying Wing Concept’s Aerodynamic Potential by Means of Parameterization and Optimization

A parameterized description of a widely arbitrary Oblique Flying Wing geometry has been developed. In extension to previous studies with more or less symmetric geometries, asymmetric planform (chord distribution and sweep), dihedral bending and profile distribution were allowed. The aerodynamic properties of these geometries have been calculated with a higher order panel method. A parallel genetic algorithm has been developed and applied to determine geometries with optimized lift to drag ratios under realistic constraints concerning the total aircraft size and the available cabin space.