Development of a morphing UAV for optimal multi-segment mission performance

Abstract

The need for innovative solutions to enable aerial platforms to fly faster, higher, and longer continues to remain a primary focus for airframe designers. This paper outlines work undertaken to apply a morphing wing warping technology onto a generic Unmanned Aerial Vehicle to deliver enhanced flight performance, efficiency and control capabilities. The prototype employs wings of novel construction which provide both near resistance-free compliance in twist as well as adequate structural stiffness to resist applied loads; all while preserving an aerodynamically smooth surface. Used in combination with developed and integrated closed-loop feedback control architecture, a real-time, non-linear, span-wise wing twist adjustment capability required for optimised flight under differing operating conditions and flight requirements, is demonstrated. Experimental results obtained from a wind tunnel test program show up to a 72% increase in lift to drag ratio under certain conditions compared to a fixed baseline providing some confidence that the combination could be used to realise a step change in flight performance.