Multiple companies have been selected to continue the federal Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) X-plane project to demonstrate advanced capabilities of active flow control (AFC). The Control of Revolutionary Aircraft with Novel Effectors (CRANE) program will use AFC, which alters the aircraft's aerodynamic flow field to add energy or momentum to the flow of air over aircraft. The coplanar joined-wing configuration was previously wind-tunnel tested by Aurora Flight Sciences. Effectors and actuators are typically light weight, without moving parts, and energy-efficient. The CRANE project excludes large external moving parts (i.e. rudders, flaps and trim surfaces). DARPA selected Boeing’s Aurora Flight Sciences and Lockheed Martin to enter Phase 1, which includes system requirements and software development, design work, and initial airworthiness in a preliminary design. Phase 1 researchers have completed conceptual designs, according to Alexander Walan, program manager for CRANE at DARPA’s Tactical Technology Office. AFC technologies will continue to be matured through advanced analytical and testing activities for incorporation in relevant demonstrator designs. (Source: Aerospace Manufacturing 08/27/21) Mississippi Note: Headquartered in Manassas, Virginia for integration and test operations, Aurora operates production plants in Bridgeport, West Virginia and Columbus, Mississippi.
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