Design and experimental characterisation of a morphing wing with enhanced corrugated skin

Abstract

In this article, a compliant morphing wing featuring an innovative load-carrying, highly anisotropic, doubly corrugated morphing skin is introduced. A multi-disciplinary design methodology is used to optimally generate the compliant structure with the aim of maximising the produced rolling moment, while minimising mass and drag. The design tool considers the three-dimensional, aeroelastic behaviour and structural constraints. In particular, a parametric metamodel is used to identify the best morphing skin design. The results show that the wing can achieve high levels of control authority and has a lower or equivalent weight compared to conventional wings. A wing demonstrator is manufactured and its aeroelastic performance is tested. The measurements of the displacement field show an appreciable deformation without shape discontinuities. Low-speed wind tunnel tests indicate that the designed wing can produce roll moments that are sufficient for replacing conventional ailerons. Moreover, the obtained changes in shape have a negligible effect on the zero-lift drag, thus demonstrating the aerodynamic efficiency of profile changes achieved through morphing. An effective solution for covering the used corrugation while allowing for shape changes is also introduced and tested.