Development of a fishbone camber morphing airfoil actuated by SMA wires

This paper investigates the design and aerodynamic efficiency of a bio-inspired variable camber morphing airfoil featuring NACA0012 ribs with a deformable fishbone trailing edge. The deformation mechanism uses smart memory alloy wires arranged on the ribs to deflect the trailing edge upwards or downwards based on the set of wires actuated. Experimental validation of the designed system demonstrates two distinct angles up to 30 degrees. Subsequent aerodynamic investigations were conducted to compare the performance of the morphing trailing edge concept with conventional flap configurations. Results indicate a notable aerodynamic efficiency, surpassing conventional flap designs by more than double at a deflection angle equal to 24 degrees.