Smart flight control

Brett Larson; James P. Bartlett; Steve O'Hearn; Clinton Adams

doi:10.1117/12.424394

6 April 2001 Smart flight control

Brett Larson, James P. Bartlett, Steve O'Hearn, Clinton Adams

Proceedings Volume 4234, Smart Materials; (2001) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.424394
Event: Smart Materials and MEMS, 2000, Melbourne, Australia

Abstract

Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) wire technology was used as primary flight control actuators on a 99-inch wingspan remote controlled aircraft. Modifications were made to a Dynaflite Butterfly and its Futaba remote control system. Comparisons were recorded between the original Futaba electric motor servo system and the SMA actuator system in terms of input power requirement, response time, actuation geometry, output power, and proportional control characteristics. The advantages and limitations of this application of SMA technology were exposed. This project shed light on further possibilities for use of SMA technology that could eliminate much of the weight, complexity, and cost associated with current use of remote actuation and linkage systems. It is the author's hope that the information presented herein will help facilitate further development of SMA in highly critical miniature applications.

Citation Download Citation

Brett Larson, James P. Bartlett, Steve O'Hearn, and Clinton Adams "Smart flight control", Proc. SPIE 4234, Smart Materials, (6 April 2001); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.424394

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