Development of a Novel Low Stored Volume High-Altitude Wing Design

Abstract

This paper presents work done on a phase I SBIR program sponsored by DARPA on the development of a novel low-stored-volume wing for high-altitude aircraft. The key innovation is the development of a hybrid design incorporating a telescoping and loadbearing spar within an inflatable wing. Primary benefits of the approach include significantly lower required inflation pressures and lower overall system weight. Details of the analytical and design approach as well as results of proof-of-concept subcomponent tests are presented. Also outlined in the paper is work planned for follow-on phases of the program.