An assessment of airfoil design by numerical optimization

A practical procedure for optimum design of aerodynamic shapes is demonstrated. The proposed procedure uses an optimization program based on the method of feasible directions coupled with an analysis program that uses a relaxation solution of the inviscid, transonic, small-disturbance equations. Results are presented for low-drag, nonlifting transonic airfoils. Extension of the method to lifting airfoils, other speed regimes, and to three dimensions if feasible.