NeoCASS+, a Conceptual Design and Simulation Framework for Morphing Aircraft

The interest in the design and implementation of morphing concepts on modern aircrafts to guarantee the capability of adapting their shape based on the different flight mission requests is increasing. This paper summarizes the research activities performed by Politecnico di Milano in the field of morphing wings, specifically those activities that aim to investigate possible implementation techniques for the active camber morphing concept. Special attention is focused on the development of a design framework, named NeoCASS+, which can be used directly from the conceptual design phase to perform multi-fidelity analyses by modeling the interaction between three different design levels or tools. First, the aircraft conceptual design level, which includes the aeroelastic analysis and optimization capabilities as well the possibility of considering and evaluating the benefits of morphing concepts, is described. Second, a morphing airfoil shape optimization tool coupled with a compact airfoil geometry representation approach is presented. Finally, a synthesis of a compliant mechanisms tool that is able to support the designer in defining the structural configuration of morphing wings is detailed.