Shape Memory Alloy Fin Deployment for Projectile Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing projectile devices face challenges in increasing range due to the weight and drag caused by costly, complex aerodynamic components, which are difficult to install and integrate effectively.
Innovation Solution
The use of shape memory materials (SMMs) to deploy control surfaces and fins, which change shape in response to stimuli, reducing drag by filling gaps and transforming rear surfaces for improved aerodynamics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional aerodynamic components (motors and servos) are used to control surfaces, then the projectile range can be increased, but the weight increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical control systems (motors and servos) with a shape memory material-based deployment mechanism. The SMM components change shape in response to stimuli to deploy control surfaces and fins, eliminating the need for heavy motors and servos while maintaining the ability to adjust aerodynamic surfaces for range enhancement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the phase transition properties of shape memory materials, which change their physical state and shape in response to temperature or other stimuli. This parameter change enables the deployment and reconfiguration of aerodynamic surfaces without requiring continuous mechanical actuation, thereby reducing weight while preserving range enhancement capability
2Reliability
If conventional aerodynamic components (motors and servos) are used to control surfaces, then the projectile range can be increased, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical control systems with a simpler shape memory material-based system. The SMM components inherently provide the deployment mechanism through their shape-changing properties, eliminating the need for motors, servos, and associated control mechanisms, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining range enhancement
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory material components are configured to deploy automatically in response to stimuli without requiring external mechanical actuation. The SMM material self-regulates the deployment of control surfaces and fins based on environmental conditions, eliminating the need for complex control systems and reducing overall device complexity
3Reliability
If conventional aerodynamic components are used, then control capability is improved, but unwanted drag is created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamically deployable control surfaces and fins made from shape memory materials that can adjust their configuration based on flight conditions. The surfaces can be stowed during phases where they would create excessive drag and deployed only when control capability is needed, optimizing the balance between control and drag throughout the projectile's trajectory
Solution Approach 2:
The shape memory material components are configured to provide control capability only at specific locations and times during flight. The deployment is localized to areas where aerodynamic control is needed, and the surfaces can be adjusted to provide optimal control while minimizing drag in different flight phases
4Reliability
If conventional aerodynamic components are used, then range enhancement is achieved, but installation difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory material components are configured to nest within or attach to existing projectile structures. The deployable control surfaces and fins can be integrated into the projectile body in a compact form, utilizing existing spaces and attachment points, thereby simplifying installation while maintaining range enhancement capability
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 enhances the range of projectile devices by reducing base drag through turbulence enhancement and seamless surface creation, offering a lightweight, quick-to-prototype, and shock-reduced mechanism compared to conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
at least one first shape memory material 'SMM' component and at least one second SMM component each fabricated from an SMM and configured to change shape in response to receiving a stimulus
Implementation Method 2
wherein the at least one first SMM component is configured to deploy from a device body into at least one control surface or at least one fin and change a shape of the device
Implementation Method 3
The use of shape memory materials (SMMs) to deploy control surfaces and fins, which change shape in response to stimuli, reducing drag by filling gaps and transforming rear surfaces for improved aerodynamics
Data Source
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Figure 3A~3B
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AI summary
A device (100) is provided. The device includes at least one SMM component (115, 120, 130) fabricated from a shape memory material (SMM). The SMM component is configured to change shape in response to receiving a stimulus. The SMM component is also configured to deploy from a device body (105) of the device allowing the device to change shape in an advantageous way. A method (1000) implemented by a device (100) is also provided. The method includes changing (1010) a shape of an SMM component (115, 120, 130) of the device in response to receiving a stimulus. The SMM component is fabricated from an SMM. The method also includes deploying (1015) the SMM component from a device body (105) of the device allowing the device to change shape in an advantageous way.