An Investigation of the Aeroelastic Tailoring for Smart Structure Concepts

Abstract

This report describes a research effort demonstrating the concept of variable stiffness tailored aeroelasticity for smart structures. In particular, a wing structure is designed, or tailored aeroelastically, as a force multiplier for control actuation. This variable stiffness concept may be used as a way to employ light-weight and low-power output smart materials in lifting surface structures. A simple, unswept, rectangular wing model is used to explore the feasibility of utilizing the variable stiffness tailored structure as a force multiplier in conjunction with an outboard, trailing edge control surface. This approach involves the design of a simple wing model with adjustable stiffness to lower the control surface dynamic pressure and use the control surface as a 'tab' to twist the wing.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 1996
Accession Number
ADA399629

Entities

People

  • Cindy L. Giese
  • Gregory W. Reich
  • Kenneth E. Griffin
  • Mark A. Hopkins

Organizations

  • Air Force Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Biomedical
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aeronautics
  • Air Force
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Aircrafts
  • Control Surfaces
  • Dynamic Pressure
  • Frequency
  • Leaf Springs
  • Manufacturing
  • Materials
  • Modal Analysis
  • Outboard
  • Stiffness
  • Trailing Edges
  • Wind Tunnel Models
  • Wind Tunnels

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Integrated Circuit Design and Technology.
  • Nanocomposite Materials Science