Aerogami: Composite Origami Structures as Active Aerodynamic Control

TL;DR

This paper investigates origami composite structures as active aerodynamic control surfaces, combining modeling, simulations, and wind tunnel tests to evaluate their structural and aerodynamic performance.

Contribution

It introduces new origami-based control surface concepts and demonstrates their potential through integrated modeling and experimental validation.

Findings

Origami structures show excellent rigidity under aerodynamic loads.

Wind tunnel tests confirm effective control of drag using active origami surfaces.

Designs exhibit promising potential for full-scale vehicle applications.

Abstract

This study explores the use of origami composite structures as active aerodynamic control surfaces. Towards this goal, two origami concepts were designed leveraging a combination of analytical and finite element modeling, and computational fluid dynamics simulations. Wind tunnel tests were performed at different dynamic pressures in conjunction with two different active control laws to test the capability of obtaining desired drag values. The experiments revealed excellent structural rigidity and folding characteristics under aerodynamic loading. Future work will focus on developing advanced origami designs that allow for more deterministic folding as well as improved weight, stiffness, and fatigue characteristics in the use of materials. Upon completion of these improvements, it is anticipated that full-scale testing on a vehicle could be meaningfully conducted.