New actuation methods for miniature trailing-edge effectors for rotorcraft

Michael R. Thiel, George A. Lesieutre

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

4 Scopus citations

Abstract

This paper addresses the development of actuators for a Miniature Trailing-Edge Effector (MiTE). MiTEs are high-lift devices that can improve the performance of rotorcraft when properly deployed. The optimal deployment schedule for MiTEs to enhance rotorcraft performance is an on/off type deployment as opposed to a single-frequency harmonic deployment. In this work, the desired on/off deployment is approximated by a five-term Fourier series. Two distinct design approaches are explored: one exploiting multiple drive system resonances, and the other minimizing drive voltage. Both designs have the goal of producing mechanically simple, low power actuation. The design of an actuator that has system resonance frequencies at one, three, and five times the fundamental frequency of deployment shows promise but needs further development. An actuator designed to minimize drive voltage was built and tested. Initial results show that the desired deflections in a representative full-scale application can be obtained within the operating limits of available piezoelectric materials.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication50th AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics and Materials Conference
StatePublished - Dec 1 2009
Event50th AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics and Materials Conference - Palm Springs, CA, United States
Duration: May 4 2009May 7 2009

Publication series

NameCollection of Technical Papers - AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics and Materials Conference
ISSN (Print)0273-4508

Other

Other50th AIAA/ASME/ASCE/AHS/ASC Structures, Structural Dynamics and Materials Conference
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityPalm Springs, CA
Period5/4/095/7/09

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Architecture
  • General Materials Science
  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Mechanics of Materials
  • Mechanical Engineering

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