Feather-inspired wing flaps could improve plane lift and performance, new study suggests

Bird-inspired wing flaps could be the future of aviation, improving flight performance by improving lift and reducing drag. In a recent study, engineers investigated how “hidden feathers” – the layered, layered feathers on bird wings – could be mimicked on aircraft wings to improve maneuverability and stability. Installing lightweight, passive flaps on an aircraft’s wing surfaces could provide significant aerodynamic benefits, allowing planes to achieve improved lift and reduced drag, a study suggests.

A new approach to aircraft flap design

According to research published Oct. 28 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Traditional aircraft wings typically use flaps and spoilers, controlled by mechanical systems to manage airflow during flight. However, this bio-inspired approach aims to replace complex controls with a passive design that activates only by changes in air pressure at high angles of attack – the position where the wings meet the incoming airflow head-on . Engineer Aimy Wissa, of Princeton University, explained that unlike conventional components, these louvers “are not controlled by motors or actuators” but respond naturally to airflow, providing simplicity and coverage over any area. the surface of the wing.

Wind tunnel tests reveal improved stability and lift

In wind tunnel tests, researchers examined the impact of these feather-like flaps on airfoil designs. Flaps positioned at the front of the wing guide airflow more efficiently, improving lift and reducing drag. Additional rows of flaps intensified this effect, while rearward-positioned flaps stabilized air pressure by preventing it from flowing forward, a crucial aspect of maintaining lift. The study found that a five-row flap design increased lift by 45% and reduced drag by 31%, highlighting the potential of these flaps to optimize aerodynamics without complex machinery.

Potential benefits for modern aviation

When tested on remote-controlled aircraft, the feather-like flaps also helped expand the range of safe flight angles by 9%, reducing the risk of stalling – a sudden loss of lift often experienced when flying. steep climbs or tight turns. This increased angle of attack range could make flights safer, especially in turbulent conditions or during short runway landings. As Wissa observed, passive flaps could support a wider range of maneuvers, providing benefits for various aviation applications, from commercial aircraft to drones.