Variable Camber Morphing Wings
Abstract
This project is inserted within the scope of the technology of morphing aircrafts. Specifically, the research team investigated, in a multidisciplinary framework, the design methodology of variable camber morphing wings based on the use of active materials, namely piezoelectric materials and shape memory alloys. The research work has been carried out in partnership with Prof. Daniel J. Inman, from the Department of Aerospace Engineering of the University of Michigan. After preliminary assessment of various innovative candidate morphing strategies, the research evolved to the concept of active meta-structures based on shape memory alloys and permanent magnets, which is currently in development in the context of a Ph.D. thesis jointly advised by Profs. Domingos A. Rade and Daniel J. Inman. The main accomplishments made are the following:1.development of a methodology for the multidisciplinary design of variable camber morphing wings based on finite element simulations, encompassing the thermo-mechanical behavior of shape memory alloys and aerodynamic transient analysis. This methodology enables to evaluate the evolution of the aerodynamic forces and moment during the morphing transition.2. conceptual design and tests of variable camber aerodynamic profiles combining shape memory alloy wires and permanent magnets to achieve multi-stable configuration for morphing purposes
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 02, 2016
- Accession Number
- AD1009258
Entities
People
- Domingos A. Rade
- Francisco J. De Souza
Organizations
- Federal University of Uberlândia