A compliant cellular structure driven by pneumatic pressure was designed in this work. The cell shape was determined via topology optimization and the optimum shape was found to consist of two arches which open and elongate to provide bending or extension. Converting these shapes into a thin walled structure and after a parametric study, the best cell parameter values (depth and length of the top arch and vertical-lower arch connection point) were determined based on deflection, stiffness and stress considerations. A bimorph-type morphing trailing edge for a NACA 0012 aerofoil was mapped from this thin-walled compliant cellular structure. Finite element analysis showed feasibility of the concept and testing of a preliminary prototype specimen further demonstrated the working principle. The specimen was fabricated from glass fiber reinforced plastic and at 14 kPa pressure a maximum downward tip deflection of 13.9° was observed.
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