TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER OPPORTUNITY: Unique Flap Device for Airframe Noise Reduction: LAR-17984-1

Synopsis: NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA solicits inquiries from companies interested in obtaining license rights to commercialize, manufacture and market the following technology. License rights may be issued on an exclusive or nonexclusive basis and may include specific fields of use. NASA provides no funding in conjunction with these potential licenses. THE TECHNOLOGY: Scientists at NASA Langley Research Center have developed a simple, deployable flap side edge-main element link that reduces airframe noise at landing while still enabling a clean cruise configuration. Termed the FLEXSEL (FLEXible Side Edge Link), this flexible structural link design makes use of hyper-elastic materials to provide a smooth geometric transition of minimal spanwise extent between the flap side edge and the main wing element using a simple mechanical connection. The link consists of an elastomeric foam core bounded by a homogeneous elastomeric skin. The unloaded shape of the link can be chosen to correspond to an intermediate configuration between the retracted and deployed end states, thereby reducing force requirements and optimizing shape control throughout flap articulation. Also, the link cross section can subtend on partial flap chord and/or flap thickness dimensions. The comparatively small spanwise dimension of the FLEXSEL enables it to achieve the noise reduction without detriment, and with possible improvement, to the other aerodynamic characteristics. The FLEXSEL system adds a minimal weight penalty. NASA is seeking to license this technology commercially in the United States. US Patent 8,695,925. To express interest in this opportunity, please respond to [email protected] with the title of this Technology Transfer Opportunity as listed in this FBO notice and your preferred contact information. Please also provide how you foresee using the technology along with a brief background of your company. Additionally, please identify any non-US interests/subsidiaries in your company as well. For more information about licensing other NASA Langley-developed technologies, please visit the NASA Langley's Technology Gateway at https://technologygateway.nasa.gov/ These responses are provided to members of NASA Langley's Office of Strategic Analysis and Business Development "OSACB" for the purpose of promoting public awareness of NASA-developed technology products, and conducting preliminary market research to determine public interest in and potential for future licensing opportunities. If direct licensing interest results from this posting, OSACB will follow the required formal licensing process of posting in the Federal Register. No follow-on procurement is expected to result from responses to this Notice.