Bio-Inspired Morphing Wing UAV for deployment from HAPS and Orbit

The project demonstrates a proof-of-concept of a next generation bio-inspired morphing wing inspired by academic research of the Peregrine Falcon morphology. Asymmetric span morphing has previously been demonstrated for UAV roll control via in-plane partial span change. This design has full bird-like span change and a unique out-of-plane modality. This offers novel drag reduction characteristics when made to form an airflow channel in conjunction with a fixed surface such as the fuselage, in “cupped wing” flight. It affords the stowage envelope of avian-like wing folding for semi-autonomous tubelaunch deployment. This project developed a prototype Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and Launch System for applications utilising high-altitude deployment; from a plane, balloon, HAPS or after re-entry from Orbit after a deceleration phase. After a descent the UAV can loiter at altitude for Earth Observation (EO) and descend again at speed. Applications include Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR), survey of natural disaster zones, planetary exploration and UAV operations in high winds.