Overview of Boeing’s Shape Memory Alloy Based Morphing Aerostructures

Abstract

The Boeing Company has a goal of creating aircraft that are capable of continuous optimization for all flight conditions. Toward this goal we have developed morphing-capable, adaptive structures based on Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) technology that enable component and system level optimization at multiple flight conditions. The SAMPSON Smart Inlet program showed that fully integrated SMA wire bundles could provide a fighter aircraft with a Variable Engine Inlet capability. The Reconfigurable Rotor Blade program demonstrated the ability of highly robust, controlled 55-Nitinol tube actuators to twist a rotor blade in a spin stand test to optimize aerodynamic characteristics. The Variable Geometry Chevrons program, which was the first use of 60-Nitinol for a major aerospace application, included a flight test and static engine test of GE90–115B engine fitted with controlled morphing chevrons that reduced noise and increased engine efficiency. The Deployable Rotor Tab employed tube actuators to deploy and retract small fences which are capable of significantly reducing blade vortex interaction generated noise on a rotorcraft. Most recently, the Variable Geometry Fan Nozzle program has built on the VGC technology to demonstrate improved jet engine performance. The Boeing Company continues to mature SMA technology in order to develop innovative applications and support their commercialization.