Smart Actuation and Flow Control Technologies for Next-Generation Aircraft Propulsion Systems

Dear Colleagues,

Smart actuation and flow control technologies for next-generation aircraft propulsion systems leverage both active and passive actuators to create engines and airframes that continuously optimize their aerodynamic and thermodynamic environments. Passive actuators, such as compliant morphing structures, bistable surfaces, and flow-responsive micro-flaps, automatically adapt to pressure fluctuations, controlling wing turbulence and near-wall flow dynamics, and mitigating drag losses without requiring continuous power. These are complemented by high-bandwidth active actuators, including piezoelectric and plasma actuators, active shape-memory alloy elements, and electro-hydrostatic micro-servos, that deliver targeted flow injections to control separation, delay stalling, and stabilize compressor stages. The integration of distributed sensing, adaptive algorithms, and digital twins allows these actuators to coordinate across the wing–engine system, potentially leading to quieter operation, reduced fuel burn, lower emissions, greater resilience to gusts and crosswinds, and an improved performance during off-design maneuvers. This Special Issue collection will cover the key findings, advancements, and challenges of these smart actuation systems and how they enable a new class of propulsion airframe architectures that are lighter, more efficient, and capable of meeting the environmental and operational demands of future aviation.

Prof. Dr. Subrata Roy
Guest Editor

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