F-35 Lift Augmentation with Synthetic Jets

Synthetic Jet (SJ) actuators have recently been pursued as solutions in active flow control applications, aeroshaping of airfoils, and even thermal management of microelectronics. Of particular interest is the use of piezoelectric SJ actuators as flight air flow control devices where their compact size, reduced weight and all-electric actuation make them desirable for use on high performance military aircraft. In the proposed program, piezoelectric synthetic jets will be systematically developed, and under the prescribed environmental conditions, be tested for both military and commercial aircraft applications. Fully functional piezoelectric synthetic jet prototypes will be assembled and tested in a laboratory environment in accordance with military and commercial specifications. The variability of SJ peak performance will be measured with respect to operational conditions, and material and device characteristics. Conformal coatings or encapsulation devices will also be developed to protect the synthetic jets from corrosive saltwater environments, operational temperature extremes, and damage due to abrasive dust. Overall performance of prototype piezoelectric SJ actuators will be reported along with plans for Phase II development and commercialization. BENEFIT: Development of reliable piezoelectric synthetic jets will increase the performance of aircraft high lift systems, reducing aircraft wing size, weight, and cost for both military and commercial applications. Overall complexity and weight reductions, combined with improved resistance to corrosion and dust fouling for example, will improve lifetime performance expectations and reduce manufacturing and maintenance costs over the hydraulic and electromagnetic systems currently being used. Furthermore, the proposor and their project partners will develop synthetic jets for other applications including, microelectronic thermal management systems.