Fast Response Shape Memory Alloy Control Surfaces for Hypersonic Munitions Navy STTR FY2005 Sol No.: Navy STTR FY2005 Topic No.: N05-T014 Topic Title: Fast Response Shape Memory Alloy Control Surfaces for Hypersonic Munitions Proposal No.: N054-014-0032 Firm: Technology in Blacksburg, Inc. 2901 Prosperity Rd Blacksburg, Virginia 24060 Contact: Matthew Langford Phone: (540) 961-4401 Web Site: www.techsburg.com Abstract: The Techsburg Inc./Virginia Tech Center for Intelligent Material Systems and Structures (CIMSS) team proposes a novel approach to supersonic/hypersonic munition flight control systems. In the proposed Phase I effort, we will analytically and numerically investigate using high-temperature shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators to drive fin flow effectors to control high-speed munitions. A coupled thermal/kinematic/mechanical code will be developed to model SMA actuator force, deflection, and time response. An optimized flow effector design will be determined using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and the loading from the CFD simulations will be used as an input to the analytical model. A closed-loop control code incorporating the actuator attributes from the model will be developed. Finally, a proof-of-concept fin prototype incorporating SMA-actuated flow effectors will be designed, fabricated, and tested to experimentally validate and tune the model. The design will incorporate several novel features, such as using forced convection air to simultaneously improve actuator time response and augment flow effector performance. Benefits: Potential benefits of the proposed SMA-actuated flight control system for supersonic/hypersonic munitions over conventional hydraulic, pneumatic, and servomotor actuators include reduced weight, mechanical complexity, and size. In addition to providing munition flight control systems for all branches of the U.S. military and its allies, opportunities exist to apply the fast-response, high-temperature SMA-actuated flight control system as a replacement for hydraulic variable stator vane and thrust vectoring systems in turbofan aircraft engines. Other commercial applications include automotive components such as SMA-actuated brakes, power steering, and valves. Return