Conceptual Design of a Low - Cost Linear Actuator for Variable Span Wing Application

Abstract

Aerospace actuators can be found throughout modern commercial and experimental aircraft, as well as in military and space exploration. The aerospace industry is not only growing, but also rapidly changing and the demand for aerospace actuators is permanently increasing. Linear actuator is able to push, pull, and hold objects in a way that our bodies cannot. Additionally, electrically powered technology provides more sophisticated control options. Linear actuator drive many different functions that are essential to safe and efficient aircraft operation. Manufacturers and hobbyists alike are always on the hunt for new ways to automate functions while keeping development costs low. Providing cost-effective linear solutions for aerospace application is one of the biggest challenge. This research will provide a cost-effective actuator conceptual design for variable span morphing wing UAV. The cost-effective design will be presented along with the application-based selection of linear actuators for morphing wing UAV.