Integration of Morphing Structural Mechanisms into Active Flight Control Systems

This paper investigates the integration of morphing structural mechanisms into active flight control systems, focusing on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Morphing technologies offer the potential to improve aerodynamic performance across different flight phases by dynamically adjusting wing geometry and aerofoil profiles, thereby optimizing lift and reducing drag compared to conventional control surfaces. The study presents the design and construction of a Fish Bone Active Camber morphing control surface, inspired by biological structures for smooth and reversible camber adaptation. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations were conducted across multiple angles of attack and flight speeds to evaluate aerodynamic performance relative to conventional and stabilator surfaces. Results demonstrate enhanced adaptability and aerodynamic efficiency of the morphing mechanism in UAV operational envelopes. Additionally, the physical model construction and active control integration via a Fly-by-Wire system underscore the feasibility of real-time morphing actuation.