Multi-Mode Shape Control of Active Compliant Aerospace Structures Using Anisotropic Piezocomposite Materials in Antisymmetric Bimorph Configuration

The mission performance of future advanced aerospace structures can be synthetically improved via active shape control utilizing piezoelectric materials. Multiple work modes are required. Bending/twisting mode control receives special attention for many classic aerospace structures, such as active reflector systems, active blades, and compliant morphing wings. Piezoelectric fiber composite (Piezocomposite) material features in-plane anisotropic actuation, which is very suitable for multiple work modes. In this study, two identical macro-fiber composite (MFC) actuators of the F1 type were bonded to the base plate structure in an “antisymmetric angle-ply bimorph configuration” in order to achieve independent bending/twisting shape control. In terms of the finite element model and homogenization strategy, the locations of bimorph MFCs were determined by considering the effect of trade-off control capabilities on the bending and twisting shapes. The modal characteristics were investigated via both experimental and theoretical approaches. The experimental tests implied that the shape control accuracy was heavily reduced due to various uncertainties and nonlinearities, including hysteresis and the creep effect of the actuators, model errors, and external disturbances. A multi-mode feedback control law was designed and the experimental tests indicated that synthetic (independent and coupled) bending/twisting deformations were achieved with improved shape accuracy. This study provides a feasible multi-mode shape control approach with high surface accuracy, especially by employing piezocomposite materials.