Morphorm
Jan 1, 2024
Morphorm Partners with AFRL to Advance Computational Design for Morphing Aero-Structures
Morphorm, in collaboration with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), is developing a next-generation computational platform to optimize the internal topology of finite-thickness, self-actuating surfaces. This technology aims to enable seamless morphing between multiple target shapes under thermomechanical loading, enhancing the adaptability and efficiency of aerospace systems.
Morphing aircraft structures offer the potential to significantly improve flight performance by dynamically optimizing the aerodynamic profile to match mission-specific speed and environmental conditions. However, conventional hinged mechanisms and actuator hardware introduce significant Size, Weight, and Power penalties, often diminishing the anticipated aerodynamic and operational benefits. These trade-offs are further exacerbated in high-speed flight regimes (supersonic and above), where complex thermal and mechanical loads alter structural behavior.
Morphorm’s simulation-driven design optimization tools provide a powerful approach to address these challenges by integrating multiphysics simulations that capture the coupled aerothermal and structural phenomena. This partnership focuses on developing a computational framework to design morphing surfaces that transition between multiple configurations through distributed, embedded actuation strategies.
Key technical objectives of the project include:
Co-design of internal architecture and actuator placement – Optimizing the structural topology in tandem with actuation strategy to achieve targeted morphing performance.
Integrated objective function and constraints – Developing formulations that incorporate shape fidelity, thermomechanical loading constraints, and system-level performance metrics.
Finite deformation optimization – Implementing advanced formulations to accurately predict large, nonlinear deformations while ensuring structural integrity.
A critical aspect of the research is understanding qualitative shifts in topology predictions and the underlying mechanism concepts based on varying objective function weightings and constraints. Additionally, the study will evaluate fabrication feasibility, actuation energy budgets, and practical deployment considerations. As part of the effort, the project will include data curation, comprehensive documentation, and software delivery. The computational platform will leverage graphical processing unit (GPU) acceleration to enable high-fidelity, computationally intensive multiphysics simulations with enhanced efficiency and scalability.
The ultimate objective of this initiative is to advance Morphorm’s simulation-driven design technology to strengthen the national defense enterprise with state-of-the-art computational design capabilities.
"We are honored to assist the Department of Defense in maintaining a technological edge for the Warfighter in both the offensive and defensive use of hypersonic weapon systems," said Miguel Aguilo, Founder and CEO of Morphorm. "This collaboration with AFRL will drive advancements in hypersonic systems by integrating adaptive geometry and flexible, smooth morphing surfaces, enabling superior lift, maneuverability, and efficiency over conventional designs."
This partnership with AFRL marks a significant milestone in Morphorm’s growth, reinforcing its leadership in engineering simulation and expanding the impact of its cutting-edge solutions in defense and aerospace applications.
About Morphorm
Morphorm® is an emerging leader in engineering simulation and modeling technologies. Founded in 2022 and headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Morphorm is advancing state-of-the-art optimization and simulation technologies to drive product innovation in clean energy, semiconductors, and defense. The company’s pioneering real-time design solutions are setting new industry benchmarks in performance and efficiency. To learn more, visit www.morphorm.com.
CONTACT: info@morphorm.com
SOURCE: Morphorm