Smart wing shape memory alloy actuator design and performance

Shape Memory Effect TiNi torque tubes were fabricated, tested and installed to supply 2500 in.lbs and 500 in.lbs of torque for inboard and outboard sections, respectively, of the DARPA smart wing wind tunnel model. Structural connections to the tubes were designed so that the entire assembly would fit within the interior of the wing, whose maximum dimensions of depth ranged from 1.125' to 0.375', depending on the position along the wing span. The torque tubes themselves were made by the gun drilling a TiNi ingot and ElectroSpark Discharge Machining to the required dimensions, which were calculated from a simple model described in a previous paper. The torque tubes were placed into the wing and twist deflections were measured. Deflections on the wing were measured at 1.3 degree(s), which provided a significant increase (approximately 8%) in the wing rolling moment.