Adaptive Compliant Trailing Edge

The Adaptive Compliant Trailing Edge project flight-tested flexible, gapless wing flaps on a Gulfstream III research aircraft. NASA and the Air Force Research Laboratory worked with FlexSys to assess aerodynamic efficiency, structural behaviour and airframe-noise reduction. Unlike conventional hinged flaps, the compliant surfaces formed a continuous bend with the wing. Initial testing completed 22 research flights in 2015; later ACTE work examined performance, twisted-flap configurations and acoustic measurements. The project provides a flight-research case study in translating compliant structures into aircraft control surfaces.