MIT Technology Review April 1, 2019
A team of researchers in the US (NASA, MIT) has designed wing that is made from an open, lightweight lattice framework that is covered with a thin layer of polymer material. It looks like thousands of matchstick-type struts welded together in small triangle shapes. This design lets it adapt and deform in many ways so that it is the optimal shape for the different stages of flight—takeoff, landing, cruising, and so on. It is also far lighter than conventional wings and would therefore use much less energy. The manufacturing process incorporates 3D printing and robotic assembly. The design was tested in a wind tunnel. This design could allow future aircraft wing designs to become far more flexible…read more.
CREDIT: ELI GERSHENFELD | NASA