Fixed-Wing Aircraft

FlexSys has developed variable geometry trailing edge structures for fixed-wing aircraft. Since 2001, FlexSys has designed, built and tested 4 such structures, including three wind tunnel models, one structural, and one flight test article.

Technology Highlights

• Estimated fuel savings (or range improvement) if retrofitted is about 3.5%
           (= $1.5 billion/yr @$2/gal in savings for US commercial fleet)
• Estimated fuel savings on long range missions: 5% to 12% if a systems-level design of a wing
           exploits the inherent benefits of the Adaptive Compliant Wing.
• Airframe noise reduction - seamless flap-wing transition regions.
• Demonstrated TRL (Technology Readiness Level) 5.5
• High Reliability (no moving parts in the shape morphing mechanism)
• Weight Savings - lighter than conventional flaps
• Less power than a conventional flap
• Significant improvement in control authority
• Works at all scales, with all types of materials (composites, aluminum, titanium etc.) and actuators

Wind tunnel testing at the University of Michigan


Testing at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base


Test model attached to Scaled Composites' White Knight

Click on the videos below to watch the FlexSys Flap Demo or the Flight Test.