The adaptive winglet shown on this site is controlled by shape memory wires, that keep the winglet in its optimal shape appropriate to the incoming flow. Rigid winglets can improve the aircraft performance between 5 and 11 percent in comparison to planar wings. The effect of the winglet is due to an advantageous distribution of the downstream field produced behind the wing by the free vortices trailing the wing. This leads to a smaller induced resistance.

By use of an adaptive winglet this resistance will be automatically adjusted to the current flight situation. The optimal shape requires a wide range of the actuator strain. The minimum strain occurs in the austenitic phase and the maximum strain in the martensitic phase. All deformations within this range are accessible by the actuators upon electric heating and cooling by the surrounding air.

In comparison to hydraulic, pneumatic or electric actuator systems the shape memory systems are distinguished by small weight, small space requirement, simple construction and low price.

Movie of Adaptive Winglet: