Morphing High Temperature Shape Memory Alloy Actuators for Hypersonic Projectiles
Navy STTR FY2005


Sol No.: Navy STTR FY2005
Topic No.: N05-T014
Topic Title: Morphing High Temperature Shape Memory Alloy Actuators for Hypersonic Projectiles
Proposal No.: N054-013-0232
Firm: Mide Technology Corporation
200 Boston Avenue Suite 1000
Medford, Massachusetts 02155-3502
Contact: C. van
Phone: (781) 306-0609
Web Site: www.mide.com
Abstract: Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) materials present unique benefits to the control and stabilization of hypersonic projectiles. Mid� and the University of Colorado at Boulder is proposing to exploit these benefits of SMA materials for the control of hypersonic projectile by developing and analyzing concepts that will achieve desired flight control characteristics within the aero-thermal environment. The University of Colorado at Boulder brings substantial experience in the fields of aeroelasticity and the shape optimization of aero-surfaces undergoing fluid-structure interaction phenomena. The Boulder team will help to develop, analyze and optimize the aero-surface actuator concepts. Mid�'s strength is its experience with morphing fins and structures obtained through programs with the U.S. Army and DARPA.Phase I will addresses important questions regarding the feasibility of the innovation. Phase I will develop requirements, establish material characteristics of high-temperature shape memory alloys and prepare performance studies of a number of concepts. A successful Phase I would reduce the technical risk and allow Phase II to develop (detail design and fabrication) and demonstrate a prototype or prototypes of flight control actuators for the flight control and stabilization of hypersonic projectiles.
Benefits: The proposed innovation will overcome limitations of current sensor approaches in health monitoring systems. There are no existing sensors that can be used in situ, or on rotating components. The proposed development effort will establish a self-powered sensor that will transmit stress or temperature information by radio frequency eliminating power and cabling. A 700 degree Celsius sensor is considered feasible and if funded and successful the effort will yield a totally new category of sensors.

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