Conformable M3 Microsystems for Aerodynamic Control

Abstract : The recently emerging microelectromechanical technology has created a new frontier for the control of aerodynamic, structural and propulsion systems. The micromachining process provides two unique features for transducer technology: large in quantity and minute in size. A large number of sensors and actuators are essential for distributed system control while miniature transducers are necessary to satisfy high spatial resolution requirements. In this project, we suggest a microsystem concept which will make quantum advances to the still emerging microelectromechanical technology. The purpose is to develop a new conformable Mhat3 technology for use in active flow control on a delta wing. The Mhat3 technology will integrate microelectronics, microsensors, and microactuators on a planar silicon chip. The conformable Mhat3 technology has made another advancement to finish the integrated transducers and electronics on a flexible skin, hence called the smart skin here. To our knowledge, there is no existing technology and no ongoing research to provide conformable Mhat3 systems. In addition, potential applications of the smart skin in defense, aerospace and medical fields are obviously whenever 3-D surfaces are encountered. The smart skin is wrapped around the 3-D leading edge of a delta wing and control all the six components of the aerodynamic forces and moments of a delta wing such that radical changes of aircraft design concept will take place.