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Shape Shifting Wings

Shape Shifting Wings

MIT and NASA engineers work together to make an unusual aircraft prototype. Engineers are testing a new aircraft wing to increase the efficiency of aircraft manufacturing, flight operations and maintenance. The wing consists of hundreds of small pieces called “voxels” and can be deformed to provide optimal parameters during flight.

The wing consists of polyetherimite, a type of thermoplastic reinforced with glass fiber. This makes aerodynamic control and performance improvement easier. The use of existing technology in larger aircraft seems not to last too long. It is also intended to be used in many different areas, from wind turbine blades to innovative buildings in space.

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