Applications of polymorphic composites within aerodynamic structures

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Bistable composite plates that rely on thermally induced residual stresses are well characterised. Their advantage is that they do not require load to retain one of two possible shapes-load is only required for actuation. They are being actively developed as morphing actuators and also as integrated flaps and as morphing skin within aircraft wing structures. For current purposes we focus on their structural and aerodynamic applications. When integrated into a structure the bistability characteristics change as added stiffness is introduced to the bistable system. However, it is possible to tailor the bistable nature of these shapes such that aerodynamic applications become a distinct possibility. Also, by varying a composite lay-up in a piecewise fashion such that there are distinct individual regions in the planform of a plate (where the lay-up changes) opens up the possibility of creating genuinely polymorphic (multistable) composites in which the number of possible stable states is potentially limitless. This paper shows morphing concepts for aircraft.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationStructural Health Monitoring 2007
Subtitle of host publicationQuantification, Validation, and Implementation - Proceedings of the 6th International Workshop on Structural Health Monitoring, IWSHM 2007
EditorsFu-Kuo Chang
PublisherDEStech Publications
Pages1357-1363
Number of pages7
ISBN (Electronic)9781932078718
Publication statusPublished - 2007
Externally publishedYes
Event6th International Workshop on Structural Health Monitoring: Quantification, Validation, and Implementation, IWSHM 2007 - Stanford, United States
Duration: 11 Sep 200713 Sep 2007

Publication series

NameStructural Health Monitoring 2007: Quantification, Validation, and Implementation - Proceedings of the 6th International Workshop on Structural Health Monitoring, IWSHM 2007
Volume2

Conference

Conference6th International Workshop on Structural Health Monitoring: Quantification, Validation, and Implementation, IWSHM 2007
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityStanford
Period11/09/0713/09/07

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