We are supporting Airbus' technology accelerator UpNext with specially adapted servos for the eXtra Performance Wings (X-Wing) project. Volz is supplying a larger quantity of different actuators, which have been tailored for use in the research and development project. The wing design is currently being adapted to a Cessna Citation VII business jet platform with a wingspan of 16 meters (or 52 feet), representing a one-third scale model of the final design.
The X-Wing project forms part of the Wing Research program, which is run by Airbus UpNext. To reduce aerodynamic drag, fuel consumption and emissions, the new longer and thinner wings are equipped with foldable tips and a variety of additional flaps, which enable them to act similarly to bird's wings with feathers. The objective is to develop aircraft wings that can automatically adapt to the current flight conditions, utilizing a variety of sensors to register changes in turbulence and activate the necessary adjustments to the control surfaces.
"We are thrilled to be involved in this pioneering research project," says Volz Servos CEO Phillipp Volz. "That UpNext has selected our actuators to conduct this crucial initial test with the Cessna platform demonstrates the confidence Airbus has in the reliability of our servos.”
Photos: Airbus
