Large-amplitude aeroelastic instabilities explored using a Cyber-Physical system (Kenneth Breuer, Brown University

The instability of an elastically-supported plate is explored experimentally using a Cyber-Physical system and synchronized PIV measurements of the associated velocity field.  A Cyber Physical system is one in which the structural dynamics (stiffness, damping and inertia) are controlled electronically rather than by physical elements. This allows for efficient and rapid exploration of a very broad parameter space.  We examine the dynamics of a simple flat plate supported by a torsional spring/damper, and reveal a complex phase portrait, including low amplitude Limit Cycle Oscillations (LCO) as well as large amplitude oscillations driven by the growth, evolution and separation of leading edge vortices (LEVs).  The effects of structural parameters and fluid parameter (Reynolds number) are detailed.