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Design, Modeling, and Experimental Testing of a Variable Stiffness Structure for Shape Morphing

Mikol, Collin Everett

Abstract Details

2018, Master of Science, Ohio State University, Mechanical Engineering.
Shape morphing structures that are both actively controlled and greatly variable in stiffness offer unique solutions in aerospace applications. Current aerospace industry trends show increased interest in shape-adaptive structures capable of carrying high loads for improved aerodynamic performance and fuel efficiency. One limiting factor in present applications is the ability to actively morph structures and control stiffness using the same type of actuation system. My research focuses on developing an actively controlled, variable stiffness structure that uses a pneumatic system for both morphing and locking the structure shape. Design prototypes that use various pneumatic actuation technologies and beam designs will be iteratively tested for feasibility and reliability. Layer jamming, which utilizes varied friction between thin sheets based on pressure, will be used to control the variable stiffness. The shape morphing and layer jamming will be analyzed in a setup using a force tester to show the ability of the structure to actively morph and control its stiffness using a pneumatic control scheme. This novel research would positively impact both the aerospace and robotics fields by creating lightweight morphing structures that are flexible and easily deformed, but also stiff with high load-carrying capability.
Haijun Su, Dr (Advisor)
Junmin Wang, Dr (Committee Member)
75 p.

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Mikol, C. E. (2018). Design, Modeling, and Experimental Testing of a Variable Stiffness Structure for Shape Morphing [Master's thesis, Ohio State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1523454926569658

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Mikol, Collin. Design, Modeling, and Experimental Testing of a Variable Stiffness Structure for Shape Morphing. 2018. Ohio State University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1523454926569658.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Mikol, Collin. "Design, Modeling, and Experimental Testing of a Variable Stiffness Structure for Shape Morphing." Master's thesis, Ohio State University, 2018. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1523454926569658

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)