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Subsonic Test for Ingesting Non-Uniform Gradient Airflow and Boundary Layer Experiment (STINGABLE)
Completed
TRL 4 (started at 4, targeting 5)
Description
Boundary Layer Ingestion Technologies have the potential to reduce the aircraft fuel burn by as much as 8.5% compared to aircraft flown today. The new propulsor design; meaning the inlet and the fan; is embedded in the aircraft body at the back of the fuselage and ingests the slower boundary layer air flow; using it to generate the thrust needed to propel the aircraft through its mission. This innovation will address the gap of knowledge for taking the BLI concept across the Valley of Death
Benefits
ARMD has been tasked with developing a portfolio of technologies that would reduce aircraft emissions to net-zero by 2050. By advancing BLI to a of 6 with flight testing; the technology would be readily adoptable into the next configuration of aircraft in support of that net-zero by 2050 goal.
Details
| Technology area | Propulsion Systems |
| Program | Center Innovation Fund: AFRC CIF (AFRC CIF) |
| Lead organization | Armstrong Flight Research Center, Edwards, CA |
| Start date | 2024-10-01 |
| End date | 2025-09-30 |
Project contacts
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How to get involved
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.