Smart structures and actuators: past, present, and future

The DARPA currently supports several programs with a focus on smart materials and structures. Two of these programs, the Smart Materials and Structures Demonstration Program and the Compact Hybrid Actuators Program (CHAP), will be described and reviewed. The Smart Materials and Structures Demonstration projects aim to show the value of smart materials-based actuation systems in realistic applications. The CHAP efforts focus on the development of new types of useful electro-mechanical and chemo-mechanical actuators that exceed the specific power and power density of traditional electromagnetic and hydraulic-based actuation systems by a factor of ten for a range of applications. Outlined are the expected capabilities, significant technical challenges, and performance advantages foreseen in successful development and transition of the technologies targeted for exploration.