Research Article Analysis of SMA Actuated Plain Flap Wing

In the past few decades, developments in smart materials have shown the promise of providing better actuation systems to improve aerodynamic performance of the wing. When properly trained, shape memory alloy (SMA) wires act as linear actuators by contracting when heated. In this paper, these SMA wire actuators are used to deflect the plain flap and control the flap angle of aircraft wing. The aerodynamic characteristics of SMA actuated plain flap aerofoil structures are investigated. The results of experimental studies on the lift force acting on the aerofoil structure at specific air velocity and angle of attack are investigated and presented. It is found that the SMA wire is an effective actuator in smart wings