Initial Investigation into UAV Application of a Biomimetically Derived Span-Wise Morphing Structure

Presented in this paper is the initial evaluation of a span-wise morphing concept for UAV applications. The dynamic response is investigated via a method of external photogrammetry taken of the wing concept structure. A process of metrology is undertaken to ascertain the effective displacement of the wing tip undergoing a large span and chord-wise morphing actuation, based on a biomimetically inspired joint mechanism driven through pneumatic artificial muscles. A static case is employed to ascertain the repeatability of the morphing geometry in relation to the commanded position and to an derived average actuation position. This is repeated under a simulated aerodynamic loading for a UAV application. A dynamic case is also evaluated for the concept in relation to the proposed aircraft application. The resulting dynamic response is also compared to the similarly dynamic response observed in the avian from which the concept is derived.