Aerodynamic Efficiency Enhancements for Air Vehicles, Phase II

The need for aerodynamics-based efficiency enhancements for air vehicles is presented. The results of the Phase I investigation of concepts for morphing aircraft are discussed. Morphing enables the aircraft to optimize its configuration for various flight regimes. This translates to benefits in range, endurance, manueuvering and speed characteristics of the air vehicle. Using simulations, live testing, and benchtop hardware development, the feasibility of the concepts was established in Phase I. In Phase II, key additions to the design, such as trailing edge flaps, and an intelligent, sense-and-adapt method to achieve continuous aerodynamic optimization flight testing will be integrated. Wind tunnel testing and flight testing will be performed to refine and finalize the designs.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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