Characterization of typical aeroelastic sections under combined structural concentrated nonlinearities

Abstract

Structural nonlinearities are usually present in aeroelastic systems. The analysis of this system commonly comprises a study involving only one type of nonlinearity, influencing a particular motion of the airfoil. However, practical applications of aeroelastic systems can be affected by different types of structural nonlinearities. It becomes essential to study the stability of the aeroelastic system under these conditions to assess more real operational flight procedures. In this context, this article presents an investigation of a typical aeroelastic section response with trailing edge control surface subjected to combinations of concentrated structural nonlinearities. Different nonlinear scenarios involving cubic hardening stiffness in pitching and free play, free play with preload, and slip dry friction in the trailing edge control surface motion are analyzed. The mathematical model is based on linear unsteady aerodynamics coupled to a three-dof typical aeroelastic section. Hopf bifurcations diagrams are obtained from direct time integration of the equation of motion. The post-flutter limit cycle oscillations are investigated, revealing supercritical and subcritical bifurcations. A complete parametric study of the nonlinear parameters is carried out, thereby allowing a sensitivity analysis of each nonlinear scenario. The results show that aeroelastic tailoring considering the mild post-flutter behavior can be achieved through an appropriate choice of combined nonlinear effects. Moreover, combined nonlinearities can mitigate the undesired subcritical aeroelastic responses caused by free play.