Free-Size Optimization of a Stiffened Panel Using Equivalent Radiated Power

View Video Presentation: https://doi.org/10.2514/6.2022-3936.vid Acoustic performance is not typically considered during the structural design of an aircraft fuselage, however the noise transmitted by the fuselage during flight can contribute to passenger discomfort. Structural-acoustic optimization approaches have been presented in research, but there is limited implementation in commercial design optimization software. This work investigates equivalent radiated power optimization in Altair OptiStruct as a means of indirectly minimizing radiated sound power over a broadband frequency range. Radiated sound power theory is reviewed and a methodology is presented for free-size optimization for equivalent radiated power. The proposed approach is applied to the design of chemical-milled pockets of a stiffened panel, ultimately achieving a small reduction in sound power compared to five other pocket designs. Further exploration is needed to conclude if equivalent radiated power optimization can achieve a meaningful reduction in sound power.