Synthesis and Analysis of a Novel Parameterized Morphing, Honeycomb Cellular Cell Propulsion Actuation System of an AUV

This paper presents a parametric novel design of a distributed propulsion actuation system, oriented for applications in morphing for Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUV) structures. A novel design of a morphing parameterized motion actuation mechanism is proposed, in order to compose the internal structural layout. The governing principals regarding the cellular honeycomb core, which our propulsion actuation system is composed, are interdependent by the cell parameters of the layout. The analysis model developed, responds to the following criteria. First, it must allow a wide displacement ratio with regards to its rigid body. Second, a variation in planform area, taking into account the minimum strain on structural members, is mandatory in order to have numerical stability, crucial factor of the finite element analysis. For display purposes, the parametric morphing actuation mechanism model is featured. In compliant, the morphing structure design contributes in adaptable, lightweight and high load carrying capability of an Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs). Finally, FEM analysis with an appropriate number of elements is created, in order to accurately capture the localized material fatigue constraints, as well as to study the behavior of the parametric mechanism under stress due to high pressure.