Aerodynamic Shape Optimization Using CFD Parametric Model with Brake Cooling Application

Revolutionary advances in computing power and software technology have fostered a new trend of integrating design and CFD analysis. This study explores the application of this new methodology to the area of aerodynamic shape optimization. The integrated process of UG, ICEMCFD, and FLUENT was developed using iSIGHT as an integration and optimization tool. Using this new methodology, a brake rotor air cooling passage shape DOE study and optimization was performed. About 35% cooling performance improvement was achieved through optimization using CFD. The advantage of CFD based design exploration is demonstrated by using this process. It shows the great potential of computer based automatic design optimization in vehicle Aero/Thermal development.