Resonance-based low-frequency synthetic jet actuator modeling, design, and testing

Synthetic Jet Actuators have been the topic of extensive study in the aerospace industry because of their ability to actively control flow over aerodynamic surfaces without discrete control surfaces such as a flap. One challenge has been to develop a low frequency, lightweight actuator that can provide large displacements. This study will discuss the modeling, design, manufacture, and testing of a bimorph piezo-composite actuator that will provide such displacements at low frequencies. The design employs two opposing benders that provide a piston-type motion. The initial goals of this study were to achieve 30 m/s out of the slot while maintaining the mechanical resonant frequency of the system at about 100 Hz.