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Feasibility Investigation of Attitude Control with Shape Memory Alloy Actuator on a Tethered Wing

Author

Listed:
  • Yufei Zhu

    (Future Mobility Research Department, Toyota Research Institute North America, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA)

  • Ryohei Tsuruta

    (Frontier Research Center, Toyota Motor Corporation, Toyota 471-8571, Aichi, Japan)

  • Rikin Gupta

    (Future Mobility Research Department, Toyota Research Institute North America, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA)

  • Taewoo Nam

    (Future Mobility Research Department, Toyota Research Institute North America, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA)

Abstract

This study is aimed at assessing the feasibility of employing an innovative, smart-material-based control effector for an inflatable wing. A shape memory alloy (SMA) actuator is primarily investigated as a control effector in this work for its advantages of a simple actuation mechanism and a high force-to-weight ratio. This paper presents the design, control strategy and simulation results of the SMA actuator used as a stability augmentation system for a small-scale prototype kite. Stable flight of the kite is achieved during open wind tunnel tests using the SMA actuator. Based on experimental and simulation analyses, it is evident that the current SMA actuator is better for low-frequency actuations rather than stability augmentation purposes, as its performance is sensitive to practical conditions. The study also discusses potential improvements and applications of the SMA actuator.

Suggested Citation

  • Yufei Zhu & Ryohei Tsuruta & Rikin Gupta & Taewoo Nam, 2023. "Feasibility Investigation of Attitude Control with Shape Memory Alloy Actuator on a Tethered Wing," Energies, MDPI, vol. 16(15), pages 1-24, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:16:y:2023:i:15:p:5691-:d:1206107
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    Cited by:

    1. Artur S. Bartosik, 2024. "Advances in Numerical Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow," Energies, MDPI, vol. 17(9), pages 1-5, April.

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