Aerogami: Composite Origami Structures as Active Aerodynamic Control

This study explores the use of origami composite structures as active aerodynamic control surfaces. Towards this goal, two origami concepts were designed leveraging a combination of analytical and finite element modeling, and computational fluid dynamics simulations. Wind tunnel tests were performed...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inarXiv.org
Main Authors Cozmei, Mircea, Hasseler, Tristan, Kinyon, Everett, Wallace, Ryan, Deleo, Antonio Alessandro, Salviato, Marco
Format Paper
LanguageEnglish
Published Ithaca Cornell University Library, arXiv.org 13.12.2019
Subjects
Active control
Aerodynamic loads
Aerodynamics
Aerospace industry
Composite structures
Computational fluid dynamics
Computer simulation
Control surfaces
Control theory
Finite element method
Folding
Fuel consumption
Stiffness
Wind tunnel testing
Wind tunnels
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Summary:This study explores the use of origami composite structures as active aerodynamic control surfaces. Towards this goal, two origami concepts were designed leveraging a combination of analytical and finite element modeling, and computational fluid dynamics simulations. Wind tunnel tests were performed at different dynamic pressures in conjunction with two different active control laws to test the capability of obtaining desired drag values. The experiments revealed excellent structural rigidity and folding characteristics under aerodynamic loading. Future work will focus on developing advanced origami designs that allow for more deterministic folding as well as improved weight, stiffness, and fatigue characteristics in the use of materials. Upon completion of these improvements, it is anticipated that full-scale testing on a vehicle could be meaningfully conducted.
ISSN:2331-8422