Morphable Aircraft Body Using Shape Memory Alloy Wires
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional mechanisms for moving aircraft components require heavy and bulky components like pumps and motors, which add significant weight to aircraft, making them inefficient for weight reduction efforts.
Innovation Solution
The use of shape memory material members, such as shape memory alloy wires, constrained on a surface by stitching, which contract to cause the aircraft body to bend into an activated configuration without relying on heavy mechanical structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional mechanical mechanisms (actuators, gears, pumps) are used to move aircraft components, then the components can be moved and adjusted, but the weight of the aircraft increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical actuation systems (actuators, gears, pumps) with shape memory material members that use phase transition and thermal effects to produce mechanical motion. The shape memory material members are embedded in the aircraft structure and can change the shape or configuration of components through thermal activation, eliminating the need for separate mechanical actuation systems and significantly reducing weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in temperature and phase state of the shape memory material members to control the configuration of aircraft components. By heating or cooling the shape memory material members, they transition between different phases (martensite and austenite), which causes them to change shape and thereby adjust the aircraft structure without mechanical actuators.
2Weight of moving object
If shape memory material members are used to morph aircraft structures, then weight is reduced, but the mechanism for controlling shape change becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the shape memory material members directly into the aircraft structure itself, merging the structural components with the actuation functionality. The shape memory material members are embedded within or attached to the aircraft components, combining the structural support function with the shape-changing actuation function in a single integrated system, thereby reducing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory material members are self-actuating through thermal effects. When exposed to thermal energy (from environmental temperature changes or applied heat), they automatically undergo phase transition and shape change without requiring external mechanical actuators or complex control mechanisms. This self-service capability simplifies the overall control system.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows for morphing of aircraft structures without the need for bulky mechanical components, reducing weight and enhancing efficiency in achieving and maintaining flight configurations.
Implementation Method 1
The shape memory material member can include a first region and a second region. The shape memory material member can include a central region located between the first region and the second region. The first region and in the second region of the shape memory material member can be constrained on the surface. The central region of the shape memory material member can be unconstrained on the surface. When activated, the shape memory material member can cause the body to bend in the central region.
Implementation Method 2
The system can include one or more power sources operatively connected to the shape memory material member. The system can include one or more processors operatively connected to control a supply of electrical energy from the one or more power sources to the shape memory material member.
Data Source
AI summary
A body can be configured to be selectively morphable. The body can be at least partially hollow. The body can include a surface. A shape memory material member, such as a shape memory alloy wire, can extend along the surface. The shape memory material member can include a first region, a second region, and a central region located between the first region and the second region. The first and second regions of the shape memory material member can be constrained on the surface, such as by stitches. The central region of the shape memory material member can be unconstrained on the surface. When activated, the shape memory material member can contact, causing the body to bend in the central region due being constrained in the first and second regions. Thus, the body can be morphed into an activated configuration.