Boundary-layer manipulation using shape-programmable materials

Recent advances in materials science open new possibilities for developing programmable surfaces to aid enhanced near-wall flow control capabilities. We propose a novel approach to manipulating boundary layers via a shape morphing programmable system that exploits liquid metal microfluidic networks embedded in an elastomer surface. The system can achieve a unique set of properties with electromagnetic forms of actuation induced by the distributed Lorentz force. The structure can quickly morph into a diverse group of continuous complex 3D geometry from a 2D planar configuration at highly controllable changes in amplitude and frequency. The interaction between programmable systems and various flow types is experimentally quantified using high-speed digital image correlation and particle image velocimetry. Different low-order decompositions tools are used to extract energetic coherent responses in the form of single and multi-scale perturbations. This multidisciplinary work aims to provide engineering and fundamental foundations for applications in future vehicles.