Realization of Morphing Wings: A Multidisciplinary Challenge

Morphing-wing research is growing in significance, as it is driven by the need to improve aircraft performance. There are many aspects to consider when designing a morphing wing, making the task a multidisciplinary challenge. This has led to a multitude of approaches to morphing-wing research. This paper provides an overview of the field, drawing together these different approaches. Morphing wings can be classified in terms of shape parameters (what to morph), performance benefits (why morph), and enabling technologies (how to morph). Regarding the structural system, the majority of morphing-wing concepts have consisted of distinguishable substructure, skin, and actuator components. However, these components need to be integrated to such a level that all share the functions of carrying loads and changing shape, thus blurring the distinction between these components. The trends include shifts from using conventional mechanisms and actuators to smart-material-based systems to topology-optimized compliant-mechanism designs. Furthermore, concepts found in nature may offer potential morphing solutions, and the working principles of muscles and plants may be emulated in a morphing wing. The focus of this paper is on morphing for traditionally fixed-wing aircraft and on the structural system in particular.