Nitinol-Driven Morphing Airfoil for UAV’s and Small-Scale Aircraft

Advancements in adaptive aerodynamics have led to the exploration of morphing airfoils, which can dynamically alter their shape to optimize aerodynamic performance under varying flight conditions in aircraft. Unlike conventional fixed-wing designs, morphing airfoils offer improved efficiency, maneuverability, and adaptability by changing their geometry in response to environment. This research investigates the use of nitinol, a shape memory alloy (SMA), as an actuator for real-time morphing between two airfoil profiles—NACA 2142 and NACA 2406 designed for applications in UAVs and small-scale aircraft using a single airfoil of NACA 2412. Nitinol possesses unique shape memory and super-elastic properties, enabling it to return to a predefined shape when subjected to thermal activation. Using nitinol as an actuator, it is possible to actuate the airfoil to change from one airfoil shape to another. These characteristics make it an attractive candidate for lightweight, compact actuation systems in aerospace applications. The goal of this study is to determine whether nitinol can serve as an effective means of inducing controlled airfoil morphing without relying on traditional mechanical actuation methods, which can introduce additional weight, drag, and complexity to the system. To evaluate the feasibility of nitinol-based actuation, a prototype airfoil was designed and fabricated using 3D printing, with embedded nitinol wires to facilitate controlled shape transformation. The material chosen for the airfoil is ABS because of its stiffness properties and because of its ease of manufacturability. A custom test stand was developed to secure the airfoil and provide a stable platform for testing the actuation process. The test stand was designed to accommodate electrical inputs needed to activate the nitinol elements while allowing precise monitoring of shape deformation. A high-resolution camera was employed to capture the morphing process in real-time. The camera system was used to monitor and record the changes in airfoil geometry as the nitinol actuators were activated. Image processing techniques were implemented to analyze deformation patterns and assess the repeatability of shape changes over multiple actuation cycles. By integrating nitinol-driven morphing airfoils into UAV and small-scale aircraft designs, this research aims to contribute to the development of adaptive aerodynamics. The ability to modify airfoil geometry in real time has the potential to improve aerodynamic efficiency, enhance flight stability, and expand operational capabilities across various flight regimes. Future work will focus on refining actuation control mechanisms, optimizing energy efficiency, and further assessing the structural durability of the nitinol elements. This study lays the groundwork for integrating smart materials into next-generation aircraft, offering promising advancements in aerial adaptability and performance.