Aerodynamic and structural studies of joined-wing aircraft

TLDR

A rapid aerodynamic analysis that computes minimum trimmed drag combined with a simple structural optimization is used to compare joined‑wing designs on trimmed drag, structural weight, and trimmed drag at fixed weight. The study identifies design parameter ranges that yield optimal cruise performance and predicts structural weight savings and net drag reductions for selected joined‑wing configurations relative to conventional cantilever wings.

Abstract

A method for rapidly evaluating the structural and aerodynamic characteristics of joined-wing aircraft was developed and used to study the fundamental advantages attributed to this concept. The technique involves a rapid turnaround aerodynamic analysis method for computing minimum trimmed drag combined with a simple structural optimization. A variety of joined-wing designs are compared on the basis of trimmed drag, structural weight, and, finally, trimmed drag with fixed structural weight. The range of joined-wing design parameters resulting in best cruise performance is identified. Structural weight savings and net drag reductions are predicted for certain joined-wing configurations compared with conventional cantilever-wing configurations.