A multi-objective optimization framework is developed to examine the capabilities of surface-mounted piezocomposites for camber morphing of multi-element airfoils for various sizes of aircraft. A parameterized piezocomposite-actuated airfoil concept, along with associated modeling and analysis methods, is presented for determining the static aeroelastic response of a morphing multi-element airfoil. The optimization algorithm is also presented for determining airfoil parameters for meeting an arbitrary mission objective. The optimization capability is demonstrated using a multi-element airfoil to produce high-lift control surface geometries. A model-scale prototype is designed based on the optimization and fabricated for experimental testing to validate the design framework and provide confidence for full-scale analysis. Full-scale morphing capability is examined using commercially available piezocomposite actuators for a small passenger jet, clearly quantifying the limitations of induced-strain actuation at large aerodynamic loading and Reynolds numbers. Additional design optimizations are conducted and presented with a so-called “vision” actuator that is not available today; however, it may become available in the future. It is shown that strain-induced actuation for large aircraft may become reality in the future with reasonable developments in smart materials.


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    Title :

    Induced-Strain Actuators for Morphing of Multi-Element Airfoils


    Contributors:
    Wright, Cody (author) / Bilgen, Onur (author)

    Published in:

    Journal of Aircraft ; 62 , 2 ; 409-423


    Publication date :

    2025-03-01




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English




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