Numerical Analysis of Variable Morphing Wing for Improved Aerodynamic Performance of a Predator MQ-1B

Abstract

In this paper, aerodynamic performance benefits of morphing unmanned aerial vehicle’s wing concepts are investigated. A Predator MQ-1B with variable wing structure was utilized for this study. The concept consists of variable twist (-10°< θ <10°, in steps of ±2.5°) and wing sweep (0°< θ <30°, in steps of +10°) to illustrate morphing wing’s performance benefits. All computations were performed with Athena Vortex Lattice modelling with varying degrees of twist and sweep angle considered. The results obtained from this work show that if morphing wings adapted to the Predator MQ-1B, it will provide significant performance benefits and also offer a great opportunity to reduce fuel consumption.