Low Reynolds Number Behavior of a Solid-State Piezocomposite Variable-Camber Wing

Abstract

The low speed, low Reynolds number wind-tunnel analysis of a previously proposed solid-state piezocomposite variable-camber wing is presented. The wing employs a continuous inextensible surface, continuous boundary conditions and surface bonded independent piezoelectric actuators. The partially-active surface is designed to have sufficient bending stiffness in the chordwise and spanwise directions to sustain its shape under aerodynamic loading. The paper focusses on characterization through statistically defensible wind tunnel experiments based on Design of Experiments methodology. Significant aerodynamic response is quantified in terms of change in lift coefficient. The empirical results from a regression model demonstrate significant aerodynamic authority of the solid state variable-camber wing when operated in Reynolds numbers above 200,000 and in low turbulence conditions.

Deformation of the Upper and Lower Surfaces of an Airfoil by Macro Fiber Composite Actuators

“…The mechanical design previously presented by Debiasi et al 23,24 is applied in this study to both the upper and the lower surfaces on an airfoil. To some extent this work parallels those of Bilgen et al [18][19][20][21] However, it is based on a different mechanical design of the morphing wing whose structure is more similar to that of conventional wings, a desirable characteristics for practical implementation in aircraft. …”

“…19 More recently, Bilgen et al developed a novel design for a variable-camber airfoil employing a continuous inextensible surface with bonded MFC actuators which can achieve significant change in aerodynamic response. 20,21 Moses et al studied MFC actuators as a mean for reducing buffeting loads on a twin-tail fighter aircraft flying at high angles of attack. 22 Wind-tunnel tests with open and closed-loop buffet alleviation have shown buffeting reductions of over 80%.…”

Design and Experimental Studies of Flexible Trailing Edge for Variable Camber Morphing Wing

“…The new design, however, was found to have a slightly lower lift to drag ration, the next step was to perform an experimental study and compare the results to the analytical model developed. Another research conducted by utilizing bimorph and unimorph was the continuous inextensible surface, variable camber wing [16]. A staticaeroelastic optimization is performed to determine the internal passive structure, which acts as the spar supporting the partially active skin.…”

A bioinspired piezocomposite propulsor: An electromechanical model

“…Bilgen et al (2010b) presented the analysis of thin MFC actuated structures. The cymbal-shape MFC actuators have successful applications in direct drive airfoils, such as variable-camber airfoils in low Reynolds number flows (Bilgen et al, 2010a, 2013a) and high dynamic pressure flows (Bilgen et al, 2008, 2010c, 2010d), solid state airfoils (Bilgen et al, 2012a; Bilgen and Friswell, 2013), and cymbal-like structures in small aircraft (Bilgen et al, 2013b; Bilgen and Friswell, 2012, 2014). These applications suggest that MFC cymbal-shape actuators are capable of flow control in underwater propulsion.…”