Adaptive structure design of a supersonic missile actuation system

Abstract

Smart Materials’ ability to alter shape by applying an external impetus excitation has significant potential within the aerospace industry. The ability to operate as an actuator has been the focus of numerous published studies. Missile actuation systems have benefited from this technology where Adaptive Structures actuated missile control fins. This research aims to determine how an Adaptive Structure, using Smart Materials as the Force Generation Mechanism, can alter the flight path of a supersonic missile with performance comparable to the generic Force Generation Mechanism system. This study adapted the Systems Engineering approach from IEEE 1220 to develop a Force Generation Mechanism for a Beyond Visual Range (BVR) class of missile that operates in the supersonic regime. The Force Generation Mechanism is acknowledged in the literature to benefit the most from Smart Material technology. The requirements for the design were compiled based on a holistic view. The conceptual missile design and actuator system design were conducted to determine the inputs for the Force Generation Mechanism system design. Functional Architecture, Physical Architecture, and Force Generation Mechanism concepts were developed based on the requirement baseline. A design decision tool comprising two scoring stages was then constructed to assess the performance of the different force generation concepts that would incorporate Smart Material technology. A concept utilising piezoelectric linear actuators was found to meet the requirements defined in this study, indicating that existing Smart Material technology can satisfy the requirements of a generic Force Generation Mechanism for a supersonic missile system.