Tensegrity Wing
Background
Tensegrity structures are combinations of 1D members and rigid or flexible bodies that utilize adjustable tension to control the shape or stiffness of a structure. By using a tensegrity wing structure, the airfoil shape of the wing can be changed on demand. Traditional wing control surfaces have limited mobility, therefore, it is predicted that a tensegrity wing structure would be able to achieve more optimal wing airfoil shapes than conventional wings, regarding aerodynamic efficiency. Different flight sections (liftoff, cruising, and landing) produce different lift and drag properties due to the angle of attack changes, therefore a tensegrity wing would be able to combat these changes.
Goal and Objectives
The goal for the 2019-20 Tensegrity Wing Team is to design, fabricate, and test a full functioning morphing wing.
Fall Quarter:
- Design tensegrity wing inner structure
- Research and select skin material for wings that is elastic, lightweight, and durable
- Design tension method for tensegrity wing structure
Winter Quarter:
- Complete ANSYS airflow simulations on different wing configurations.
- Finalize design of wing and airfoil.
- Test proposed tension mechanism on a 3D printed prototype of wing assembly.
- Test selected skin material on wing assembly prototype.
- 3D print airfoil shapes in different angles of attack and test in wind tunnels.
- Begin fabrication of morphing wing.
Spring Quarter:
- Finalize assembly of wing with all redesigns, varying thickness, material, reduction of area, and motor placement.
- Complete testing of morphing wing model through SolidWorks stress simulations to ensure non-failure under loads.
- Finalize ANSYS airflow simulations to test coefficient of lift and drag with different wing configurations.
- Determine feasibility of morphing wing over conventional wing.
Advisor: Edwin A Peraza Hernandez <eperazah@uci.edu>
Team Lead and Contact: Robert Rowe <rarowe@uci.edu>
