In this paper we review the development of aerodynamic simulation and shape optimization techniques which had their inception in Princeton during the early eighties, when Seymour M. Bogdonoff was chairman of the department. We focus in particular on the development of simulation algorithms for unstructured meshes, represented by the Airplane Code, and on adjoint based optimization techniques. It seems a particularly opportune moment to review the Airplane Code, because we originally announced it exactly twenty years ago at the AIAA Aerospace Sciences meeting in Reno in January 1986.

The Airplane Code and adjoint-based optimization techniques developed in Princeton during the early eighties have significantly advanced aerodynamic simulation and shape optimization in high-speed flow.

Aerodynamic Simulation and Shape Optimization in High Speed Flow

Key Takeaway: The Airplane Code and adjoint-based optimization techniques developed in Princeton during the early eighties have significantly advanced aerodynamic simulation and shape optimization in high-speed flow.