Multistable tape-spring assemblies for morphing aerofoil applications

S. Daynes, K. D. Potter, P. M. Weaver

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

Abstract

Changing the aerodynamic forces acting on an aerofoil is most commonly done by camber change using an actuated pin-jointed control surface at the trailing edge. There can be significant mass penalties with such devices and achieving a smooth camber variation is difficult. This work presents a design for an aerofoil section which has at least two stable camber geometries. The aerofoil's multistability derives from the use of a novel tape-spring assembly. A tape-spring is effectively a cylindrical shell. They possess the unusual mechanical property of being able to be folded elastically and lock when straightened. The design case considered is based on a typical helicopter main rotor blade. The multistable device is used to improve the performance of the rotor blade during the transition between hover and forward flight. Force-displacement characteristics of the flap are found experimentally and compared with finite element and analytical models. Both modelling techniques are in good agreement with the manufactured demonstrator.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication19th International Conference on Adaptive Structures and Technologies 2008, ICAST 2008
PublisherSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa)
Pages125-133
Number of pages9
ISBN (Electronic)9781617389870
Publication statusPublished - 2008
Externally publishedYes
Event19th International Conference on Adaptive Structures and Technologies 2008, ICAST 2008 - Ascona, Switzerland
Duration: 6 Oct 20089 Oct 2008

Publication series

Name19th International Conference on Adaptive Structures and Technologies 2008, ICAST 2008

Conference

Conference19th International Conference on Adaptive Structures and Technologies 2008, ICAST 2008
Country/TerritorySwitzerland
CityAscona
Period6/10/089/10/08

Keywords

  • Morphing aircraft
  • Multistable structures
  • Nonlinear deformations
  • Residual stress

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