Wing Morphing for Quiet Supersonic Jet Performance-Variable Geometry Design Challenges for Business Jet Utilization

In order for a supersonic business jet to be economically viable, it must perform to several stringent criteria. The ability to travel over land supersonically and to operate in general airports that already are extensively used by subsonic business jets are paramount. These design parameters mandate the incorporation of a variable geometry wing. A variable geometry wing is in fact some of the first structural morphing incorporated into operational aircraft. There are many research programs underway today investigating structural morphing to increase aerodynamic efficiency. However, the technology these various programs are investigating are at rather low technology readiness levels. To realistically consider a supersonic business jet design to be in production within the next ten years, the technology must be relatively mature in the near future today. This paper examines the current state of the art for variable geometry wings and how application of current technology to existing designs can improve upon an already proven design. Both structural and mechanical design challenges are discussed as well as the certification challenge that will lie ahead.