Design Optimization of Subcavitating Hydrofoils for America's Cup Class Yachts

The optimization process aims to minimize cumulative drag across 67 varying flight conditions. Each condition involves adjustments to the angle of attack and flap angle. The shape remains constant, as it is fixed in the design. For each condition, we establish a target lift contribution and impose constraints on cavitation, thickness for structural integrity, and weight of the foam. Additionally, we include a volume constraint and various geometric constraints, resulting in a total of 237 constraints and 52 design variables.

American Magic provided us with critical data points, consisting of three upwind and three downwind points, which correspond to different wind speeds. Each point is associated with a specific Reynolds number and target lift coefficient. The parameter σ represents the cavitation coefficient (CP), which must be constrained based on speed.