The desire to fly higher, farther, faster, and more affordably has always been a challenge. One barrier to doing so is flutter, the potentially catastrophic dynamic coupling that can occur between the elastic motion of the aircraft wing structure and the aerodynamic loads acting on it.
In 2005, the Skunk Works® team began research in this area with a new design methodology that led to the Body Freedom Flutter (BFF) research program. Their work proved that flutter behavior can be accurately predicted and addressed through the creation of a new design paradigm of active control. This active control method produced a 75 percent increase in BFF speed, as proven in a series of flight tests.
Additional Information
Skunk Works®
For more than 75 years, the Skunk Works® has existed to create revolutionary aircraft and technologies that push the boundaries of what is possible. Our unique culture is the key to our success – the secret ingredient that will define the solutions for the next 75 years and beyond.