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I didn't get that from the article. I think the idea is less of replacing conventional actuators completely, and more covering the the physical actuators with a
by Rooster61 10y ago
I didn't get that from the article. I think the idea is less of replacing conventional actuators completely, and more covering the the physical actuators with a layer of plasma to mitigate non-efficient airflow before it hits the actuator.
- hawski 10y agoFor now you're right, but for the future... From the article: > The technology could even replace traditional wing flaps, he says. Although the plasma-actuated “flapless” or “hingeless” wings are currently only suitable for smaller aircraft such as drones or UAVs, Erfani believes that further development could make the technology viable on larger, faster planes.
- Rooster61 10y agoI think we are a LONG ways off from having plasma emitters strong enough to make essentially lightsaber wings. Interesting thought though :)
- Myztiq 10y agoI don't think that's the concept. It's a solid wing with no moving parts and lift is modified solely by the plasma emitters. The entire wing's surface is still a solid material, it's just the plasma is modifying how the air behaves around it causing change in lift.