Distributed Conformal Actuation for Simultaneously Controlling Flow Separation and Transition

The objective of the proposed research is the demonstration of an optimized, planar-constrained Ionic Polymer-Metal Composite (IPMC) under the influence of a low, O(10V), voltage signal as a conformal surface capable of actuation of a laminar/transitional boundary layer for the goals of transition and/or separation control. The material will be modeled using standard techniques for analyzing a stiff compressed film on a soft substrate, with the particular strain characteristics of the actuated IPMC. We will investigate the feasibility of switching the surface boundary condition from rough to smooth on demand (with low power input) to enhance linear instability and/or transient growth mechanisms or use transient growth modes to alter the base flow sufficiently to suppress linear mechanisms (in potential Phase II work). The proposal has been assembled by a team capable of developing IPMC in the new configuration and demonstrating the characteristics that make it a feasible material for conformal actuation in Phase I research, and identifying and testing suitable fluid mechanisms and commercialization in future phases.