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An Introduction to the Adjoint Approach to Design

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Abstract

Optimal design methods involving the solution of an adjoint system of equations are an active area of research in computational fluid dynamics, particularly for aeronautical applications. This paper presents an introduction to the subject, emphasising the simplicity of the ideas when viewed in the context of linear algebra. Detailed discussions also include the extension to p.d.e.'s, the construction of the adjoint p.d.e. and its boundary conditions, and the physical significance of the adjoint solution. The paper concludes with examples of the use of adjoint methods for optimising the design of business jets.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Computing Laboratory, Oxford University, Wolfson Building, Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QD, U.K.

    Michael B. Giles

  2. Applied Mathematics, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, U.S.A.

    Niles A. Pierce

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  1. Michael B. Giles
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  2. Niles A. Pierce
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Giles, M.B., Pierce, N.A. An Introduction to the Adjoint Approach to Design. Flow, Turbulence and Combustion 65, 393–415 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1011430410075

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