Development of Flexible-rib Morphing Wing System

This study is concerned with the development of a novel morphing wing system for use in relatively small (10 kg) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). To achieve improved flight performance with limited weight penalty, camber-adjustable morphing wing strategy was adopted and realized via the use of Flexible Rib Morphing Wing System (FRMWS). Detailed morphing wing structure was designed using a novel flexible-rib mechanism which adheres to the safety requirements specified by FAR23 standards. Finite Element structural and aerodynamic analyses were conducted to validate the advantages and suitability of the design. Furthermore, wind tunnel and actual load tests were conducted in order to validate the new design. In addition, a test plane was refitted and flight test were conducted. The result of the flight test demonstrated the improved performance and the reliability of the new morphing wing system.M.A.S