Scientists are working on designs of aircraft with variable wing shape

The evolution of the wing is inseparable from the development of aviation. The glorious path from the first aircraft of the Wright brothers to the ultra-modern fighters of the 5th generation. Studying the structure of the wings of birds, scientists of the Fraunhofer Institute, known for their research in the field of electronic nanosystems, came to the conclusion that not all the capabilities of the wing are studied and in demand. So far, the highest achievement is considered a wing with variable geometry.
The Fraunhofer Institute project is part of a pan-European programme to develop new types of fuel-efficient aircraft. The emphasis is on improving the design of the wing, more and more resembling the wing of a bird.

This does not mean that, for example, the next modification of the Boeing 747 will be covered with nanofeathers. We are talking about wings consisting of many sections, which depending on the oncoming air flow will take an optimal shape, as it happens in birds. In their work, the scientists decided to use morphing – a technique from digital animation, with which one form can be converted into another.

As a result of research, a flap made of special leather with silicon coating and flexible elements from elastomeric foam was developed, which can withstand temperatures up to - 112 degrees. Already created 4 prototypes of such valves. Research is ongoing.

Source: techcult.ru