Morphic Arrangement of High Flexibility and Aspect Ratio Wing

Abstract

Morphing of aerodynamic surfaces or conformal shape adaptation of aerodynamic surfaces can be used to control aircraft, utilized similarly as in nature, where insects and birds deform their wings to achieve a wide range of flight conditions. Morphing of wings has the potential to bring numerous advantages in flight performance in comparison to a rigid, conventional solution, that utilizes stiff aerodynamic surfaces. Reduction of parasitic drag due to the lack of gaps between the various moveable surfaces is one of them. Even so, a wing whose sections are able to deform independently or conform can better adapt to wide range of flight conditions than a rigid solution, or a solution based on conventional aerodynamic surfaces, such as flaps and ailerons. Additionally, the conformal shape adaptation or morphing of aerodynamic surfaces may lead to a potentially reduced weight and mechanical complexity, which may be achieved by utilizing wing deformations directly in the structure instead of connecting conventional actuation devices to the system. The aim of this paper is to propose a morphic arrangement of a high flexibility and high aspect ratio wing, that could be utilized in High Altitude Long Endurance aircraft, where the efficiency of the design is of utmost importance. A significant reduction of parasitic drag and reduction of weight is a promising basis for pursuing morphic and conformal shape adaptation designs. This paper qualitatively explores the space of morphic arrangements and conformal shape adaptation designs and utilizes inventive approaches to check and identify designs that may be promising. A wing design is proposed, that utilizes morphing of wing and conformal shape adaptation.