Robust, flexible and lightweight dielectric barrier discharge actuators using nanofoams/aerogels

US9137883B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignees

• National Institute of Aerospace Associates · US
• The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration · US

Inventors

• Godfrey Sauti · Hampton, US
• Tian-Bing Xu · Chesapeake, US
• Emilie J. Siochi · Newport News, US
• Stephen P. Wilkinson · Poquoson, US
• Mary Ann B. Meador · Strongsville, US
• Haiquan Guo · Avon, US

Key dates

• Filing date: May 27, 2014
• Grant date: Sep 15, 2015
• Expiry date: May 27, 2034

Classification

• Technology area (CPC H): Electricity
• CPC primary: H05H1/2418
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

Robust, flexible, lightweight, low profile enhanced performance dielectric barrier discharge actuators (plasma actuators) based on aerogels/nanofoams with controlled pore size and size distribution as well as pore shape. The plasma actuators offer high body force as well as high force to weight ratios (thrust density). The flexibility and mechanical robustness of the actuators allows them to be shaped to conform to the surface to which they are applied. Carbon nanotube (CNT) based electrodes serve to further decrease the weight and profile of the actuators while maintaining flexibility while insulating nano-inclusions in the matrix enable tailoring of the mechanical properties. Such actuators are required for flow control in aeronautics and moving machinery such as wind turbines, noise abatement in landing gear and rotary wing aircraft and other applications.