Step-Size Independent Approach for Multidisciplinary Sensitivity Analysis

A multidisciplinary sensitivity analysis technique based on a complex Taylor series expansion method is implemented. This technique is shown to be independent of step-size selection as it pertains to cancellation errors.The primary focus of this research is to validate a new aero– structural analysis and sensitivity analysis procedure. This validation consists of comparing computed and experimental data obta ined for an aeroelastic research wing. Because the aero– structural analysis procedure has the complex variable modi cations alrea dy included into the software, sensitivity derivatives are automatically computed. Other than for design purposes, sensitivity derivatives can be used for predicting the solution at nearby conditions. The use of sensitivity derivatives for predicting the aero– structural characteristics of this con guration is demonstrated and compared with experimental measurements