Unsteady aerodynamics and fluid–structure interaction of the variable-camber morphing wing driven by a dielectric elastomer

The development of low-altitude intelligent morphing aircraft has created an urgent demand for adaptive aerodynamic configurations in strongly unsteady flow environments. Dielectric Elastomers (DEs) have become promising actuators for morphing wings owing to large deformation capacity, lightweight, and fast response. However, the underlying coupling mechanisms among electric actuation, structural deformation, and unsteady flow remain unclear. In this paper, a fluid–electro–structure framework is developed to investigate fluid–structure interaction (FSI) and unsteady aerodynamics of a DE-driven variable-camber wing. The coupled electromechanical and aerodynamic responses are simulated employing the Lattice Boltzmann-Finite Element Method. The results show that FSI significantly influences wing deformation and aerodynamic performance. With the increase in DE driving voltage, the camber of the trailing edge and the lift of the deformed wing increase, and the excessive deformation aggravates the wake instability and drag growth. Furthermore, the effectiveness of active camber control strongly depends on the angle of attack. It is revealed that the aerodynamic gains originate from deformation-induced wake reconstruction and vortex dynamics. Our findings will provide physical insights into the multi-physics coupling mechanisms of DE-driven morphing wings and offer guidance for the design of intelligent adaptive flight systems and active flow control strategies.