Aeroservoelastic Multifidelity Design of Biomimetic Aircraft (AMuBA)

NASA has been investigating morphing aircraft for multi-mission capabilities and performance improvements in existing fixed-wing aircraft. In addition, the design of aeroelastic aircraft that can control the structural flexibility to their advantage, is an open area of research and development. In spite of the plethora of work on morphing aircraft and long slender wings, the goal of fielding such systems still seems elusive. In particular, the integration of these technologies for breakthroughs in performance, has not been demonstrated. To address this need, our team is developing morphing concepts using inflatable muscles that will allow seamless aerodynamic transitions. A formal design of such aircraft, integrating aeroservoelastic considerations and high-fidelity structural optimization, will be accomplished. We will also develop the associated aeroservoelastic controllers that can maintain stability over the entire flight envelope, without substantially sacrificing performance

The AAVP has a goal of developing novel aircraft concepts, and would benefit from this technology – in particular the high aerodynamic efficiency platform. In fact, the MUTT, ACTE and Elastically Shaped Aircraft projects at NASA can directly use the findings and technology from this effort. Moreover, several design efforts and those focused on incorporation of high fidelity structural information early in the design process, will be able to use the AMuBA tool to their advantage

The Air Force has been investing in programs, such as N-MAS, and AAW. The technology is directly applicable to the Morphing Structures Program at DARPA, and will allow advancement of DOD’s in-house technology. Also, with the increasing use of UASs by the DoD, several control system design technologies will be immensely useful

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.

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