Morphing aircraft systems developed by Purdue researchers aim to enhance performance of hypersonic vehicles

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — What if components in aircraft could morph in response to their external conditions, much like a bird changes the shape of its wings? And what if those components could function like an octopus arm, operating independently of a central control system? Inspired by these natural phenomena, a Purdue University research team is developing morphing systems for hypersonic vehicles that respond to their environment.

Andres Arrieta, associate professor of mechanical engineering, and Rodney Trice, professor of materials engineering, are designing aircraft systems with multistable structures — components that can take on multiple shapes in response to external forces. These structures function through a combination of mechanical and material interventions that not only make morphing hypersonic systems possible but may also reduce weight and complexity.

Read more on Purdue’s Office of Research website.

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Media contact: Evamarie Socha, ecsocha@purdue.edu

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