Ultra High Aspect Ratio Wing Advanced Research and Designs

The EU-funded U-HARWARD project aimed to enhance the aerodynamic efficiency and performance of large transport aircraft by developing ultrahigh aspect ratio wings. This was to be achieved through innovative aerodynamic and aeroelastic designs using a multi-fidelity, multi-disciplinary optimal design approach. The project involved a comprehensive design study to evaluate the potential gains of various wing configurations based on cargo weight, focusing on improvements in aerodynamics, weight, noise, fuel-burn, and range. To validate these designs, scaled model wind tunnel tests were conducted to assess aerodynamic and acoustic characteristics. The project progressed from a reference aircraft to the preliminary design of the most promising configuration, with high-fidelity tools and larger scale aeroelastic tests used to confirm the estimated benefits.