NASA is carrying out a series of grueling flight-testing on FleXSys FlexFoil Variable Geometry Control Surface- shape changing control sur...
NASA is carrying out a series of grueling flight-testing on FleXSys FlexFoil Variable Geometry Control Surface- shape changing control surfaces, as a part of its Adaptive Compliant Trailing Edge(ACTE) program that began last October and achieved first flight test on last November.
NASA and the U.S. Air Force Research Lab is jointly conducting the ACTE program to prove the airworthiness of FlexSys’ FlexFoil technology for optimizing fuel efficiency as well as reducing air loads and airframe noise.
Researchers have replaced a Gulfstream business jet’s conventional aluminum flaps with advanced, shape-changing assemblies that form seamless bendable and twistable surfaces. Flight testing will determine whether flexible trailing-edge wing flaps are a viable approach to improve aerodynamic efficiency and reduce noise generated during takeoffs and landings.
To date the tests have subjected these new control surfaces to speeds in excess of 0.75 Mach at 20k to 40k ft. altitude, hard banking maneuvers up to 1.7G (continuous load), and high dynamic pressures up to 384 psf.
So far the test pilots describe the new wing as “very smooth” with zero concerns about its performance or material.
NASA and the U.S. Air Force Research Lab is jointly conducting the ACTE program to prove the airworthiness of FlexSys’ FlexFoil technology for optimizing fuel efficiency as well as reducing air loads and airframe noise.
Researchers have replaced a Gulfstream business jet’s conventional aluminum flaps with advanced, shape-changing assemblies that form seamless bendable and twistable surfaces. Flight testing will determine whether flexible trailing-edge wing flaps are a viable approach to improve aerodynamic efficiency and reduce noise generated during takeoffs and landings.
To date the tests have subjected these new control surfaces to speeds in excess of 0.75 Mach at 20k to 40k ft. altitude, hard banking maneuvers up to 1.7G (continuous load), and high dynamic pressures up to 384 psf.
So far the test pilots describe the new wing as “very smooth” with zero concerns about its performance or material.
These and previous tests have proven that the 22-foot long seamless FlexFoil variable geometry surfaces on both wings of a modified Gulfstream GIII are as strong or stronger than any conventional design while still maintaining their unique flexibility.
The FlexFoil™ surface is capable of changing wing camber from -9 to +40° on demand as well as being able to twist span-wise along the trailing edge up to 30° per second.
Using aerospace grade materials, the shape-changing surface is able to withstand temperature changes from-65°F to 180°F, harsh chemicals, and fatigue cycles beyond the standard commercial aircraft lifetime. Even so its internal mechanism has no joints to wear out.
The FlexFoil™ surface is capable of changing wing camber from -9 to +40° on demand as well as being able to twist span-wise along the trailing edge up to 30° per second.
Using aerospace grade materials, the shape-changing surface is able to withstand temperature changes from-65°F to 180°F, harsh chemicals, and fatigue cycles beyond the standard commercial aircraft lifetime. Even so its internal mechanism has no joints to wear out.
