Adaptive Morphing Wing System for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: Design, Prototype Development, and Experimental Aerodynamic Validation
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This technical report presents the design, additive manufacture, and experimental aerodynamic validation of an adaptive morphing wing system for small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Conventional fixed-geometry wings are constrained to a single optimised flight condition, producing suboptimal aerodynamic performance across the full operational envelope. The proposed system uses a hybrid-material architecture integrating CFRP/ABS structural elements with TPU morphing skin, actuated by SG90 micro servomotors and NiTi SMA wire elements. CFD analysis was conducted in ANSYS Discovery using a k-ω SST turbulence model. The prototype was validated in the AF1300 Subsonic Wind Tunnel at the University of Hertfordshire at 10–20 m/s. Results: 17% lift coefficient increase, 7% drag reduction, peak Cl/Cd = 2.4. Patent: GB2610796.1. Commercial development: AeroFlex Technologies Ltd.
Author: PATEL, ROHANKUMAR
Institution: University of Hertfordshire
Language: English
Subfield: Aerospace Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7161541435
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