Adaptive­Wing

Year

1996 – 1999

The idea

This movable wing, based on the natural model, was built using pneumatic structures.

The objective

The technological precursor to the Adaptive Wing was the manned flying object Stingray from 1997.

Technical data

• Variation in wing camber: pneumatic actuators
• Material: soft and flexible, with a rigid main spar

Operating principle

Following on from the predecessor Stingray project with its pneumatic structures, a movable wing based on the natural model was developed. When flying with a symmetrical profile, the Adaptive Wing has low air resistance; when cambered, it generates favourable lift.

Technology

The Adaptive Wing consists of soft, flexible materials with a rigid main spar – a technological innovation compared to rigid aircraft wings. The wing camber is infinitely variable by means of pneumatic actuators, so that lift and drag can be adjusted to the respective flight conditions.