Modeling and testing of a seamless wing trailing edge control actuation system

This paper presents an investigation into the modeling and analysis of an innovative actuation system for a wing with a seamless flexible trailing edge control surface. Research was started with the study of aerodynamic behavior and advantage of the wing in smooth variable chamber shape under control. Based on the concept and design, an experimental wing section integrated with the actuation mechanism was built and tested. The main effort was then made to the modeling of the internal actuation system for the purpose of obtaining the physical properties and accurate modeling of the whole wing structural system. To validate and update the numerical model of the system, vibration test of the actuation system including the mechanism and actuator was carried out. Some key parameters such as the stiffness of the actuation system were identified from vibration test data. The investigation demonstrated a practical approach to quantify some key parameters and update the numerical model of an actuation system.