Chapter 6 – Expected Performances

The present work addresses the aerodynamic design of a Reference Aircraft (RA) and the assessment of the potential benefits that an active camber morphing can bring in terms of aircraft performances. The RA is representative of a typical regional jet capable of carrying 113 PAX in a single economic class and providing the operational flexibility to fly different missions at the transonic regime. The implementation of the active camber concept is based on the use of classical control surfaces, as well as on conformable morphing control surfaces. Aiming at the optimal design of these morphing devices, a dedicated procedure is introduced for the definition of the optimal shape while taking into account both aerodynamic and structural constraints. This paper briefly summarizes the tools developed and the results obtained, including potential benefits such as fuel and weight saving.