Cory Pike

Abstract

There are several advantages to the incorporation of an adaptable wing on an aircraft. Among these are increased fuel efficiency, greater maneuverability, and an improved ability to negotiate adverse conditions. This thesis explores the concept of a mechanically supported adaptable wing, where the supports are in the form of virtual spars running lengthwise along a wing of uniform cross-section. With no cross-sectional support to the wing, the skin spanning the area between the virtual spars experiences a certain amount of deflection due to the various aerodynamic forces acting on the wing. This thesis develops a process for optimizing (minimizing) the number of virtual spars required to support the wing while maintaining the original airfoil shape within a specified deflection tolerance.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Airplanes--Wings--Design and construction; Stability of airplanes; Airplanes--Design and construction; Aeronautics

Publication Date

2000

Document Type

Thesis

Department, Program, or Center

Mechanical Engineering (KGCOE)

Advisor

Kempski, Mark

Advisor/Committee Member

Venkataraman, P.

Advisor/Committee Member

Ghoneim, Hany

Comments

Note: imported from RIT’s Digital Media Library running on DSpace to RIT Scholar Works. Physical copy available through RIT's The Wallace Library at: TL672 .P54 2000

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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