Amazon.com, Inc.
Controlling aerial vehicle components using shape memory actuators

Abstract:

Shape memory actuators may be used in unmanned aerial vehicles to control various components. For example, shape memory actuators may adjust cant angles of motors, propellers, and other propulsion mechanisms. In addition, shape memory actuators may adjust positions or orientations of various other components of unmanned aerial vehicles, including wings, control surfaces, motor arms, frame sections, payload doors, and landing gears. The shape memory actuators may be formed of various shape memory materials, may be one-way or two-way shape memory actuators, and may change their configurations responsive to heat and/or magnetic fields.