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Development of Test-Bed for Investigation and Validation of Morphing Wings
University of Kentucky This project proposes to develop a proof-of-concept system of adaptive wing technology. Current aerodynamic technologies, while technically active flow control devices, attempt to control the flow around a wing by grossly changing the shape of the airfoil using mechanical devices such as flaps, slats, and ailerons. While resulting in higher lift, these devices also result in higher drag (hence, lower lift-to-drag ratio) and have large weight penalties. The project proposes to develop a test-bed wing using adaptive (“smart”) materials to “morph” the wing into a new shape optimized for the given flight conditions. The wing will be constructed using piezoelectric actuators that change the shape of the wing’s upper surface, thus varying the camber and the wing’s aerodynamic characteristics. Both experiments and numerical simulations will be conducted to validate the concept over the 12 month period of the grant.
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