MEMS Flow Control Actuators With Plasma Cleaning and Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow control actuators, such as DBD and piezo actuators, are limited in their ability to influence fluid flows near aerodynamic profiles and lack versatility for surface cleaning and aerodynamic parameter measurement.
Innovation Solution
A combination of MEMS technology-based piezo and DBD actuators, integrated with bionic surface structures, enables enhanced flow control, surface cleaning, and measurement of aerodynamic parameters, including contamination and icing detection, through the use of piezo transformers and bionic structures for reduced resistance and energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional DBD or piezo actuators are used for flow control, then flow control capability is achieved, but versatility for surface cleaning and aerodynamic parameter measurement is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines DBD actuators, piezo actuators, and sensors into a single integrated assembly that can perform flow control, surface cleaning, and aerodynamic parameter measurement simultaneously, resolving the contradiction by merging multiple functions into one device
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated assembly is designed to perform multiple functions including flow control through plasma actuation, surface cleaning through plasma chemistry, and measurement of aerodynamic parameters through embedded sensors, achieving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity
2Volume of moving object
If MEMS technology is used to miniaturize actuators, then integration density is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly is segmented into distinct functional modules (DBD actuators, piezo actuators, sensors) that can be manufactured separately using appropriate precision levels and then integrated, managing manufacturing precision requirements through modular construction
Solution Approach 2:
Standardized mounting structures and interface layers act as intermediaries between the MEMS components and the aerodynamic profile surface, absorbing manufacturing tolerances and reducing the impact of precision variations on overall system performance
3Object-affected harmful factors
If bionic structures are added to the assembly surface, then flow resistance is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Bionic structures such as riblet patterns are applied only to specific regions of the assembly surface where flow control is most beneficial, reducing overall flow resistance without adding complexity to the entire device structure
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The integrated MEMS actuators provide a wide range of applications, including efficient flow control, surface cleaning, and accurate measurement of aerodynamic parameters, enhancing the performance and efficiency of aerodynamic profiles by reducing contamination and ice accumulation while maintaining energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
When an electric voltage is applied, a mechanical motion is created (piezo actuator, so-called inverse piezo effect)
Implementation Method 2
During the operation of the DBD actuator at the exposed electrode a plasma is created from the ambient air, i.e. ionized air, which consists of ions and electrons
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly for arrangement to the surface of an aerodynamic profile comprises an array of actuators, which are designed as piezo actuators and plasma actuators.