Performance of a Three-Dimensional Morphing Wing and Comparison with a Conventional Wing

In this paper, a morphing-wing concept based on compliant ribs is considered as a replacement for conventional ailerons and its performance is investigated. The roll performance of the three-dimensional morphing-wing solution for different design speeds and under structural and strength constraints is analyzed. The design approach uses optimization techniques and considers the three-dimensional aerostructural behavior. The results show the possibility of producing sufficient roll control authority with a morphing solution, thus replacing conventional ailerons up to a design speed of 250 km/h. In a further step, the weight of the system as a function of the produced rolling moment is compared with the one of a conventional system. The obtained relations offer an estimation of the weight penalties associated with morphing. This estimation can be useful in the preliminary design of morphing aircraft.