MEMS actuators for boundary layer control of micro-rotor blades

Nikhil A. Koratkar; Theodorian Borca-Tasciuc

doi:10.1117/12.474660

15 July 2002 MEMS actuators for boundary layer control of micro-rotor blades

Nikhil A. Koratkar, Theodorian Borca-Tasciuc

Proceedings Volume 4701, Smart Structures and Materials 2002: Smart Structures and Integrated Systems; (2002) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.474660
Event: SPIE's 9th Annual International Symposium on Smart Structures and Materials, 2002, San Diego, California, United States

Abstract

This paper presents on-going research directed towards the development of MEMS actuators for improved aerodynamic efficiency of micro-rotorcraft. A 6 inches diameter micro-rotor system was developed and tested in hover. Results indicated that profile power losses associated with low Reynolds number viscous flows and flow separation and stall at high angles of attack limit the rotor performance at micro-scale. It is envisaged that tripping the flow from laminar to turbulent at the leading edge of the rotor blade can prevent formation of the laminar separation bubble and improve lifting efficiency of the micro-rotor. This study will present the design of a prototype MEMS actuator (piezoelectric thin film). It is envisaged that multiple arrays of such MEMS devices can be assembled on the surface of the airfoil section to create a smart skin. The smart skin when actuated provides controllable surface roughness that can be used to enable premature boundary layer transition.

Citation Download Citation

Nikhil A. Koratkar and Theodorian Borca-Tasciuc "MEMS actuators for boundary layer control of micro-rotor blades", Proc. SPIE 4701, Smart Structures and Materials 2002: Smart Structures and Integrated Systems, (15 July 2002); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.474660

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