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2017
Conference Paper
Titel
Control system design for a morphing wing trailing edge
Abstract
Shape control of adaptive wings has the potential to improve wing aerodynamic performance in off-design conditions. A possible way to attain this objective is to implement specific technologies for trailing edge morphing, aimed at changing the airfoil camber. In the framework of SARISTU project (EU-FP7), an innovative structural system incorporating a gapless deformable trailing edge was developed. A related key technology is the capability to emulate and maintain pre-selected target wing shapes within an established margin, enabling optimal aerodynamic performance under current operational pressure loads. In this paper, the actuation and control logics aimed at preserving prescribed geometries of an adaptive trailing edge under variable conditions are numerically and experimentally detailed. The actuation concept relies on a quick-return mechanism, driven by load-bearing actuators acting on morphing ribs, directly and individually. The adopted unshafted distributed electromechanical system arrangement uses servo-rotary actuators, each rated for the torque of a single adaptive rib of the morphing structure. The adopted layout ensures compactness and weight limitations, essential to produce a clean aerodynamic system. A Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG)-based distributed sensor system generates the information for appropriate open- and closed-loop control actions and, at the same time, monitors possible failures in the actuation mechanism.