Polymer Foam Adaptive Actuator for Wing Shape Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aerodynamic systems for adjusting wing and control surface configurations, such as those in aircraft and projectiles, face limitations in mechanical systems that disrupt airflow, have mechanical limits, and are not suitable for storage and launch constraints, leading to reduced reliability and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
A deployable surface system utilizing a polymer foam adaptive actuator that can adjust its shape, size, and orientation in response to signals, allowing for efficient extension and retraction of wings to optimize aerodynamic properties for different flight speeds and conditions, while being compact for storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical systems are used to adjust control surfaces, then surface configuration can be changed, but airflow is disrupted and aerodynamic efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical actuation systems with a dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA) system. The DEA uses electrostatic forces to deform the control surface, eliminating mechanical linkages, joints, and moving parts that disrupt airflow. The electrostatic actuation occurs through electrical fields applied to the elastomer membrane, allowing smooth surface deformation without mechanical interference in the aerodynamic flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The control surface is constructed using a flexible dielectric elastomer membrane that can be electrically actuated to change shape. This thin film structure allows the surface to deform smoothly and conformally, maintaining aerodynamic continuity and avoiding the discontinuities caused by rigid mechanical joints and actuators.
2Area of moving object
If mechanical extension systems are used, then surface area can be increased, but mechanical limits are reached and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical extension mechanisms with an electrically actuated dielectric elastomer system. The DEA can be electrically inflated or expanded to increase surface area without requiring mechanical linkages, gears, or telescoping structures. This electrical actuation method eliminates the mechanical complexity associated with traditional extension systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The control surface area is adjusted by changing the electrical parameters (voltage, charge density) applied to the dielectric elastomer. By varying the electrical field strength, the elastomer membrane expands or contracts, dynamically changing the effective surface area. This parameter-based control replaces mechanical dimension changes with electrical field-controlled deformation.
3Volume of moving object
If deployable canards are used, then storage constraints are satisfied, but mechanical actuation reduces reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical actuation systems with electrostatic dielectric elastomer actuators, eliminating mechanical linkages, joints, and moving parts that reduce reliability. The DEA system has no mechanical failure points, as it uses electrical fields to directly deform the elastomer membrane, significantly improving system reliability while maintaining deployable functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The control surface uses a flexible dielectric elastomer membrane that can be stowed compactly and deployed smoothly. The thin film structure allows the surface to be folded or reconfigured for storage within volume constraints, then electrically actuated to deploy into the desired aerodynamic configuration without mechanical joints that could fail.
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 system enhances aerodynamic efficiency by dynamically adjusting wing configurations for optimal lift and drag characteristics during flight and facilitates compact storage, improving reliability and reducing mechanical complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a polymer foam adaptive actuator that can adjust its shape, size, and orientation in response to signals
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for systems having deployable elements according to various aspects of the present invention comprise a system including a deployable surface and an adaptive actuator including a polymer foam. In one embodiment, the system comprises a vehicle including a deployable wing comprising an exterior surface. The exterior surface may be adjusted by adjusting the shape, size, position, and/or orientation of the adaptive actuator.