Review of actuators for high speed active flow control

Actuators are one of the key points for the development of active flow control technology. Efficient methods of high speed flow control can provide enhanced propulsive efficiency and at the same time enable safe and maneuverable high speed flight. The development of high speed flight technology promotes the emergence of novel and robust actuators. This review introduces the state of the art in the development of actuators that can be used in high speed active flow control. The classification and different operation criteria of the actuators are discussed. The specifications, mechanisms and applications of various popular actuator types including fluidic, mechanical, and plasma actuators are described. Based on the realistic need of high speed flow control and the existing results of actuators, a new actuator design method is proposed. At last, the merits and drawbacks of the actuators are summarized and some suggestions on the development of active flow control technology are put forward.