aeroelastiska

Aeroelastiska, or aeroelasticity in English, is the study of how aerodynamic forces interact with the elastic and inertial properties of a structure. It examines how airflow can deform a structure and how these deformations, in turn, alter the airflow and resulting forces. The field integrates aerodynamics, solid mechanics, and control theory to predict and manage these coupled effects.

Key phenomena include flutter, a dynamic instability where aerodynamic forces couple with bending and torsion to produce growing vibrations; divergence, a static instability where wing bending increases lift to the point of structural failure; gust response and buffeting, where turbulent or separated flow excites the structure; and control reversal, where deflections produce adverse aerodynamics.

Analytical and numerical methods model the coupled system. Linear aeroelastic theories (for example, unsteady lift theories of the Theodorsen type) provide insight into flutter margins and natural modes. Modern analysis often uses finite element models for structure combined with computational fluid dynamics, enabling coupled simulations that span subsonic to transonic regimes. Reduced-order models and wind tunnel tests support design and validation.

Applications include aircraft wings and tails, rotor blades in helicopters, and wind turbine blades, where increased flexibility raises flutter risk but can reduce weight. Design strategies aim to increase flutter margins and reduce peak loads, using stiffening, mass balancing, aerodynamic shaping, tuned mass dampers, aeroelastic tailoring, and active control systems.

Historically, aeroelasticity emerged in the early 20th century as speeds increased and new coupled phenomena were observed. Today it remains essential in safety-critical design, testing, and certification of flexible aerospace structures.