Integration of piezo-based active shape control into composite engine fan blades for future electrified aircraft

Abstract The blades of modern aero-engines are conceived for a specific design point. Due to the resulting fixed geometry of the blade, maximum engine efficiency can be achieved only for design point conditions. In order to improve the efficiency during off-design operation, applying blades with active shape control can be beneficial. Therefore, morphing fan blades, which adapt their geometry to the prevailing conditions by using piezoelectric low-profile actuators, are researched. Prior to the construction of a morphing fan blade demonstrator, a sequential multidisciplinary analysis is required to assess the feasibility of piezoelectric actuation in fan blades of future aircraft. First, the aerodynamic geometry of the fan blade is designed with respect to maximising the deformability. Subsequently, the structure of the morphing blade is developed, including a drapability analysis of the actuators and a numerical simulation of the achievable morphing deformation. Finally, the developed morphing structure is employed to examine a sufficient electrical power supply system for the morphing technology in a future electrified aircraft.