Design and Aerodynamic Performance of a FishBAC Morphing Wing

Shape morphing of aircraft wings have been studied as a means of improving aerodynamic performance. Continuous change of wing camber has the potential to improve ��/�� for a given lift coefficient. However, a morphing wing increases weight and complexity which requires a cost-benefit trade-off. This paper presents a simple but effective morphing wing concept for UAVs using flexible ribs (Fish Bone Active Camber) and a Flexible Matrix Composite wing skin. A standard Precedent T240 RC model aircraft wing was used as the baseline aircraft and a morphing wing was designed and manufactured using the same wing geometry. The conventional ailerons and flaps were replaced by a full-span morphing structure over 70% chord. The aerodynamic performance of both wings was compared using TORNADO, XFLR5 and wind tunnel test. The comparative study included ��/�� in cruise flight and maximum lift and roll rate at low speed. This paper presents the design and construction of the morphing wing and compares the results of the ��/�� and roll measurement of wind tunnel tests for the morphing wing and conventional wing counterpart. ��/�� performance was measured and compared with the conventional T240 wing showing a consistently superior ��/�� for the morphing wing up to twice the T240 wing at around CL = 0.8 at ��m = 10o.