Design of a morphing wing: Modeling and experiments

This paper details the design and modeling of a novel morphing wing developed at Texas A & M University. Twistable sections with an elastomeric skin characterize the wing as a distinct actuator in aerospace vehicles. Aerodynamic models of the wing were developed using Prandtl’s Lifting Line Theory. These models were validated using wind tunnel tests conducted at the low speed wind tunnel at Texas A& M University. It was found that the operating envelope of the angle of attack of the wing was enhanced by the twistable sections.