Being refreshedWe’re updating our project images and write-ups over the coming weeks.

CAD render of the airfoil’s internal servo and gear mechanism in translucent colours.

Morphing Airfoil

A servo-powered, 3D-printed airfoil that changes shape, built for wind-tunnel tests whose aerodynamic data will train a model. Designed for manufacture and assembly from the start.

Project stage
Functional prototype
Work type
Research project

Printed to change shape

  • Diagram labelling the hub gear, the servo motor, and the leading, middle and trailing sections.
  • The printed airfoil, assembled, with its servo mechanism exposed.
  • The red printed airfoil on a cutting mat during assembly.
  • CAD render of the airfoil’s internal mechanism.

Servo motors drive the leading and trailing sections through a hub gear and servo gears, so the airfoil changes shape in the wind tunnel.

We designed for manufacturing and assembly to reduce parts, cost and failure points. Larger parts are split for printing. Bridges reduce printing supports and print time. Allowances for printer accuracy help the parts fit together.

Have a product in mind?

Tell us about it. We reply within two working days.

Discuss your project