Abstract: A system includes a signal generator that is configured to generate a first electrical signal. The system also includes a light source configured to generate a light beam based on the first electrical signal. The light source is also configured to direct the light beam towards a structural member of an aircraft. The system also includes a photoelectric sensor configured to receive a reflected light beam and convert the reflected light beam to a second electrical signal. The reflected light beam corresponds to a portion of the light beam that is reflected from one or more optical reflectors coupled to the structural member. The system also includes circuitry configured to estimate a location of a center-of-gravity of the aircraft based on a timing difference between the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal.

Abstract: A system includes a signal generator that is configured to generate a first electrical signal. The system also includes a light source configured to generate a light beam based on the first electrical signal. The light source is also configured to direct the light beam towards a structural member of an aircraft. The system also includes a photoelectric sensor configured to receive a reflected light beam and convert the reflected light beam to a second electrical signal. The reflected light beam corresponds to a portion of the light beam that is reflected from one or more optical reflectors coupled to the structural member. The system also includes circuitry configured to estimate a location of a center-of-gravity of the aircraft based on a timing difference between the first electrical signal and the second electrical signal.

Abstract: Methods and systems for a butterfly valve including a shape memory alloy (SMA) tube trained for rotation are presently disclosed. The SMA tube has a ground end coupled to a housing and rotating end coupled to a plate. The SMA tube is configured to rotate in a first direction in response to a first temperature change of the SMA tube. When rotating in the first direction, the rotating end of the SMA tube rotates and deflects the plate to rotate in a direction that permits a medium to flow through the valve. The SMA tube is also configured to rotate in a second direction in response to a second temperature change of the SMA tube. When rotating in the second direction, the rotating end of the SMA tube rotates and deflects the plate to rotate in a direction that does not permits a medium to flow through the valve.

Abstract: Methods and systems for a butterfly valve including a shape memory alloy (SMA) tube trained for rotation are presently disclosed. The SMA tube has a ground end coupled to a housing and rotating end coupled to a plate. The SMA tube is configured to rotate in a first direction in response to a first temperature change of the SMA tube. When rotating in the first direction, the rotating end of the SMA tube rotates and deflects the plate to rotate in a direction that permits a medium to flow through the valve. The SMA tube is also configured to rotate in a second direction in response to a second temperature change of the SMA tube. When rotating in the second direction, the rotating end of the SMA tube rotates and deflects the plate to rotate in a direction that does not permits a medium to flow through the valve.