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Flow control with active dimples

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 February 2016

S. Dearing ,
S. Lambert  and
J. Morrison
S. Dearing
Affiliation:
Dept of Aeronautics, Imperial College, London, UK
S. Lambert
Affiliation:
Dept of Aeronautics, Imperial College, London, UK
J. Morrison
Affiliation:
Dept of Aeronautics, Imperial College, London, UK
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Abstract

The long-term goal is to design and manufacture optimal ‘on-demand’ vortex generators, ‘dimples’ that can produce vortices of prescribed strength and duration for the real-time control of aerodynamic flows that are either undergoing transition or are fully turbulent, attached or separating. Electro-active polymers (EAP) are ideal for a dimple control surface, offering high strain rate, fast response, and high electromechanical efficiency. EAP can also be used as the basis of a resistanc – or capacitance – change pressure sensor, development of which has just begun. In terms of manufacture, inkjet printing of EAP also offers a paradigm shift such that a monolithic control surface is a very real possibility. Important features for integration into a control system are robustness and a predictable, repeatable motion. With these objectives in mind, the suitability of EAP-based actuators is assessed both mechanically and aerodynamically. The ultimate goal is to integrate these devices, along with shear-stress and pressure sensors and distributed control, also under development, into a flexible ‘smart skin’ which could be incorporated into an airframe structure. The response of a laminar boundary layer to forcing is investiagted using mechanical dimples.

Information

Type
Research Article
Information
The Aeronautical Journal , Volume 111 , Issue 1125 , November 2007 , pp. 705 - 714
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 2007 

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