Abstract: A continuous force actuator having a housing, a pair of slidably mounted T-shaped pistons therein and a plurality of resilient, hollow pressure tubes surrounding each of the pistons. The insertion of fluid into or the removal of fluid from the resilient tubes alters the position of the pistons relative to the housing and thereby controls the continuous force applied by the actuator. By operably connecting the continuous force actuator between opposite components of, for example, a variable configurated airfoil, continuous control of the airfoil configuration can be performed in a reliable and accurate manner.

Abstract: Airfoil device and method providing smooth, continuous, variation in airfoil camber and surface curvature over substantially the entire length of the device by use of a trusslike bendable beam as an airfoil rib having the airfoil skin surfaces flexibly slidable relative thereto. The beam is divided chordwise into upper and lower beam members each formed of a plurality of articulated sections. The beam members are connected by a bendable jackscrew which upon rotation causes one member to move chordwise, and its curvature to be changed, relative to the other thereby effecting deflection of the airfoil with concomitant variation in its camber and the curvatures of its outer skin surfaces.