Abstract
Even though aerodynamic advancements in conventional aircraft can only offer small efficiency improvements, new aircraft configurations have shown potential for significant emission reductions by exploiting designs that substantially increase lift/drag ratios and allow for lighter aircraft structures. In this chapter, some of the fundamental technical aspects pertaining to aerodynamics are introduced to support a meaningful discussion and an assessment of the progress achieved to date. The design of wing tips aims to reduce the effect of the wing tip vortexes, hence minimise induced drag. The blended wing-body aircraft is significantly different from common transport aircraft types. The box-wing configuration consists of two horizontal wings joined at the tips by vertical wings. Morphing wing technology is a concept that allows the wings to actively or passively change shape during flight. Fundamentally, boundary layer control involves the active control of the boundary layer to improve the aerodynamic performance of the aircraft.
Original language | British English |
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Title of host publication | Sustainable Aviation Technology and Operations |
Subtitle of host publication | Research and Innovation Perspectives |
Publisher | wiley |
Pages | 215-239 |
Number of pages | 25 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781118932599 |
ISBN (Print) | 9781118932582 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Jan 2023 |
Keywords
- aerodynamics
- blended wing-body aircraft
- boundary layer control
- box-wing configuration
- morphing wing technology
- wing tips