Aims

The CLAReT project will develop a novel winglet device that is able to facilitate optimal cant angle and twist throughout the flight envelope whilst also providing an improved passive gust Loads Control and Alleviation (LC) capability. Specifically, the aims are to:

1. Perform a CFD based aerodynamic design of an innovative Loads Control & Alleviation wing device
2. Undertake a preliminary lay-out definition of respective structure and actuation system for the device
3. Perform a parametric analysis of the device performance and settings for a transonic wing configuration (cruise M=0.78) with engine–nacelle under wing installation for a future Turbo Fan Aircraft configuration

Objectives

• Definition of a baseline wing model with associated FE and CFD mesh;
• Definition of a baseline LC&A winglet device configuration following consideration of the design requirements;
• Preliminary aerodynamic sizing of the winglet device making use of CFD analysis;
• Definition of the structures and systems related to the winglet device leading to a structural design and actuator design;
• Parametric evaluation of the deployed concept and evaluation compared to the baseline wing; and
• Parametric evaluation of the concept used in combination with conventional control actuators.

Extension beyond state-of-the-art

• Development of a novel adaptive winglet concept based upon chiral structures that combines a drag minimization capability with the capacity to provide passive gust loads alleviation.
• Parametric design and capability assessment of the device for use on a full scale advanced regional turbo-fan aircraft, including design of the required structure and actuator
• Critical assessment of the total system requirements for the device (assess power and weight requirements vs. drag and loads alleviation (and hence weight loss) gains.