Shape memory alloy TiNi actuators for twist control of smart wing designs

On high performance military aircraft, small changes in both wing twist and wing camber have the potential to provide substantial payoffs in terms of additional lift and enhanced maneuverability. To achieve the required wing shape, actuators made of smart materials are currently being studied under an ARPA/WL contract for a subscale model of a fighter aircraft. The use of the shape memory alloy TiNi for wing twist actuation was investigated using shape memory effect (SME) torque tube actuator configurations. The actuator configurations were sized to fit inside a 16% scale model of an aircraft wing and the torque's supplied to the wing were similarly calculated from full-scale requirements. The actuator systems were tested in a conventional laboratory setting. Design and calibration of the actuators for wing twist are discussed.