Design and Shape Monitoring of a Morphing Wing Trailing Edge

The morphing wing trailing edge is an attractive aviation structure due to its shape-adaptive ability, which can effectively improve the aerodynamic performance of aircraft throughout whole flight. In this paper, a mechanical solution for variable camber (VCTE) based on multi-block rotating rib proposed. Parametric optimizations are conducted achieve smooth and continuous deformation rib. A prototype designed according optimized results. addition, deformations monitored via indirect method using fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor beam. Finally, ground tests performed investigate capacity VCTE shape monitoring ability proposed method. Our results indicate that maximum deflection range from 5° upward 15° downward be obtained sensing system satisfactorily monitor edge.