Active Control Inceptors Using Smart Material Motion Control

The prospect of using smart material technology for active inceptor motion systems is of high interest because of the potential cost, simplicity and performance advantages over current brushless DC motor/gearbox systems. The most suitable smart material concept for accurate motion control is piezoelectric actuation, because of its precise controllability, force and bandwidth capability. Phase I research has determined that ultrasonic motors using piezoelectrics in conjunction with magnetorheological (MR) dampers offer the best approach for a new generation of active inceptors. Ultrasonic motors provide large displacement by exploiting the very high piezoelectric bandwidth. A series of very small steps taking place at high frequency provides a large, smooth output motion with high force (or torque) and bandwidth. Current ultrasonic motors have relatively low force/torque capability, so it is essential to develop higher force/torque units, with direct drive of the stick eliminating the need for gearing as a key objective. MR dampers are also of interest for high force functions such as detents and hard stops. Research into the control of MR dampers is proposed in Phase II, which will demonstrate a fully functional dual axis inceptor prototype, with a smart material motion system in two axes, including consideration of flightworthy qualification.