Variable Geometry High-Lift Airfoil for Rotorcraft

In this proposal, DTI will leverage its expertise in electromechanics and aerodyamics to explore the concept of a continuously deformable Leading Edge ElectroMagnetic Airfoil(LEEMA).The airfoil, embedded in the rotor blade, will be deformed by coils andmagnets embedded in flexible and fixed structures of the airfoil. Key elements of the research will include determining optimum size, weight, power, structural configuration, and reliability of this innovative airfoil system. In the Phase I option, DTIwill evaluate candidate actual mainline helicopter airfoil shapes exhibiting high peak lift coefficients for advancing and receding blade shape that can be mimicked by a single deformable leading edge airfoil.In addition to the rotorcraft performanceimprovements described above, a leading edge variable airfoil improves aerodynamic efficiency and has significant potential economic and human factors benefits including:_o Reduced fuel consumption_o Higher cruise speed_o Reduced vibration resulting inimproved component lifetime and reduction in maintenance_o Improved passenger and crew comfortLong term, successful development of this technology has significant application throughout military and civilian rotorcraft aviation because it addresses one ofthe key technical barriers to rotorcraft technology - the inherent limitations in rotor aerodynamic performance.