Characterization of the Variable Camber Compliant Wing using a Vortex Panel Method
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Abstract
This thesis introduces data on the optimization of a wing employing variable camber rib actuators. This new technology in variable camber allows wings to morph in such a way that the camber at specified rib locations from the root to the tip change via actuated rib links. Such technology is only useful if optimized camber profiles are known. These optimized camber profiles should be generated in such a way that trim lift is satisfied while drag is minimized. To do this, the optimization program in existence requires an input of aerodynamic coefficients associated with the input wing design. This thesis shows how to easily obtain those coefficients for any wing design, and thereby lays the foundation for efficient use of this blooming technology and the associated research involved in proving its usefulness in aircraft design.