Optimization of Structural Parameters for UAV Spray Nozzles Using Response Surface and Genetic Algorithms

Abstract

A fan-shaped nozzle for unmanned aerial vehicle spraying was designed to investigate the influence of three key parameters—nozzle outlet diameter, relative cutting depth, and groove angle—on outlet velocity and pressure drop. Using a central composite design (CCD) with 20 sample points, numerical simulation methods were employed to solve for outlet velocity and pressure drop. A response surface model linking outlet diameter, relative cutting depth, and groove angle to outlet velocity and pressure drop was constructed using Kriging. A multi-objective genetic algorithm was applied to optimize structural parameters, targeting maximum outlet velocity and minimum pressure drop. The optimal structural parameters were determined as: outlet diameter 3.0 mm, relative cutting depth 1.2 mm, and groove angle 120.0°. Compared to the original prototype, this configuration achieved a 15.7% increase in outlet velocity and a 7.8% reduction in pressure drop.