We are proud to announce that the ARGUS project has been awarded funding by RVO as part of the National Growth Fund programme “Luchtvaart in Transitite” (LiT) under its “Ondersteunend Onderzoek” module. ARGUS, which stands for ‘Adaptive and Responsive Morphing Surfaces for Green Aviation Using Shape Memory Alloys’, aims to revolutionize the aviation industry.
This project will develop adaptive aircraft winglets with morphing surfaces, adopting advanced functional materials and an AI-driven control system. This initiative addresses the critical need for enhanced aerodynamic efficiency and reduced environmental impact, supporting LiT’s mission for climate-neutral aviation by 2050.
By utilising the unique properties of Shape Memory Alloys, which allow for reversible shape changes in response to temperature variations, a hybrid control system will be developed for the modulation of the aircraft’s external winglet surfaces in real time. This system will feature a passive control, capitalizing on ambient temperature changes associated with varying flight altitudes to automatically adjust the shape of the surfaces. Additionally, an active control mechanism will be added, using minimal external heat to facilitate precise adjustments during manoeuvres. This advanced control system is designed to significantly enhance the aerodynamic performance of aircraft by improving lift-to-drag ratios and reducing aerodynamic drag, which in turn extends the operational range and efficiency.