Distributed Conformal Actuation for Simultaneously Controlling Flow Separation and Transition

The objective of this proposal is to demonstrate the feasibility of producing a Conformal Actuator Array Active Skin (CAAAS) that can be implanted on the surface of the airfoil to deliver a system that can actively control transition and separation. It will be realized through operation of actuators with unique driving methods as well as recent advances and innovations in piezoelectric actuator technology, i.e. large displacement and blocking force. The actuator thickness will be below 2 mm so it can be distributed on the surface of the airfoil in the form of 2 dimensional arrays. The array will be covered by compliant outer membrane (active skin) to provide conformal actuation. The actuator will be excited by various driving frequencies, displacement, and waveforms to obtain required airflow controllability. Especially, waveform manipulation will induce effects analogous to conventional suctioning and blowing without making holes (conformal actuation). In addition, the array will generate traveling wave both in the transverse and streamwise directions to reduce shear stress and control airflow effectively. The combinatory effects of controlling each actuator and the array will be analyzed and optimized thus producing desired airflow.