Aerodynamic Modelling for a Morphing Rudder

The appearance of new materials and smaller and more capable actuators enable the morphing controlled deformation of the aerodynamic shape of wing like type of structures. This contribution presents the applied aerodynamics studies of a morphing rudder for a commercial transport aircraft. The conventional rudder aerodynamics is CFD modeled and the results correlated to certification loads report. The morphing rudder CFD model predicts better aerodynamics efficiency in relation to the conventional one. This conclusion is the first step for future commercial aircraft Vertical Tail Plane weight reductions with morphing rudder implementation.