Design of the strength frame of the aerodynamic rudder using the topological optimization method

An algorithm for designing a structural and technological solution of the aerodynamic rudder of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is proposed. The purpose of the work is to form the strength frame of the rudder with subsequent refinement taking into account technological limitations. The algorithm is based on the application of the topological optimization method for case of maximizing the static rigidity of the rudder structure with a volume restriction. For optimization, a rudder structure finite element model is created, boundary conditions and load are determined for two calculated cases. As a result of topological optimization, a constructive strength scheme of the rudder is obtained. To verify the study, calculations of the stress–strain state and natural vibration frequencies of the rudder structure are completed. Calculations of the stress–strain state, modal analysis and topological optimization are performed in the environment of the ANSYS Workbench 19.2 software package. Based on the optimization results, a rudder structure is designed that meets technological constraints and strength requirements.