NASA flexible wing concepts
NASA video animation showing how its concept of a lightweight, low-drag flexible wing could evolve over time as technology matures. Using tailored structures and active controls to alleviate gust loads and suppress flutter, a flexible high-aspect-ratio wing would be significanly lighter than today's stiff aircraft wings. The wing's shape would also be actively controlled to minimize drag in the cruise and maximize lift for take-off and landing. NASA plans to begin to developing the technology using Lockheed Martin's unmanned X-56A active flutter-suppression testbed.
