Impact of Actuation Concepts on Morphing Aircraft Structures

Abstract

*†‡§¶ Design optimization studies are presented that characterize specifications and design implication for integrated actuation systems of morphing aircraft structures. In a morphing aircraft design concept accommodated by articulating wing folds, the actuated system stiffness, load capacity, and integral volumetric requirements drive flutter, strength, and aerodynamic performance. Design studies concerning aircraft flight speed, maneuver load factor, and actuator response provide sensitivities in structural weight, aeroelastic performance, and actuator flight load distributions. Overall design requirements are developed for new actuation systems. The studies provide insight to the aircraft design process and flight criteria specification for morphing aircraft structures.