NASA's shape-shifting plane wings
NASA and MIT researchers have developed a flexible plane wing that can transform mid-flight. It’s made up of hundreds of identical triangular pieces covered by a thin polymer, making it more energy efficient and easier to maintain. Currently, plane wing designs are a geometrical compromise of the optimal shapes for takeoff, cruising and landing. But the researchers claim the new shape-shifting wing delivers efficiency at all stages of flight. Such tech could be applied to wind turbines, space travel and city infrastructure.
Senior Estimator
Great concept! Birds of flight have been using this similar process of taking off, cruising and landing to conserve their energy since the beginning of time. Birds have multiple layers and lengths of feathers that they can control. MIT and others only needed to observe birds at takeoff, cruising and landing and, incorporate technology to simulate. I look forward to the finished product!