NBAA: Wing morphing venture launched by API

Speaking at the NBAA show today Aviation Partners announced it is entering into a joint venture with FlexSys, Inc. The new company, called APF will market the patented ‘wing morphing’ technology which FlexSys has been working on since its formation in 2000.
The FlexSys’ FlexFoil variable geometry control surface mechanisms were recently test flown on a Gulfstream business jet.
“With over 6,300 shipsets of blended winglets in-service Aviation Partners has a long history of success when it comes to certification and marketing of performance improvements for business and commercial aviation,” said Joe Clark, API Founder and CEO, “We are excited to write a new chapter in aerodynamic design through the formation of this JV with Dr. Kota and his FlexSys team.”
FlexFoil variable geometry surface mechanisms leverage the natural flexibility of aerospace-grade materials to continuously reshape the external form. The proprietary internal joint-less skeletal configuration of the system is optimized to achieve desired aerodynamic shapes on demand when actuated, while also meeting the aircraft design requirements of: strength, lightweight, high fatigue life, reliability and low maintenance.
Importantly, the multifunctional seamless surface is uniquely capable of delivering desired camber change and span-wise twist at high rates for drag reduction, load alleviation, noise reduction, etc.
Commercial opportunities being studied by APF for this revolutionary technology in the near future include flight controls, leading/trailing edge devices, anti-icing and active winglets. APF plans to offer the technology for both retrofit and new production applications.