NASA + boeing to design longer, thinner wing to reduce aircraft emissions by 50%

NASA + boeing to design longer, thinner wing to reduce aircraft emissions by 50%
aerospace research engineer greg gatlin at the ames research center wind tunnel complex
all images courtesy of NASA

NASA and boeing have been working together to create a longer, thinner and lighter wing to reduce aircraft fuel emissions and money required to put it in the air. with a wing that requires a brace or truss to provide extra wing support, researchers expect the lighter weight, lower drag wing will be at least 50% more efficient over current designs. 

the wind tunnel model tested has a 50% greater wingspan than any comparable aircraft currently flying. engineers are using detailed computer modeling of aerodynamics to iterate the design which shows how air would flow around the model, modifying the dimensions and shaping the wing and truss to improve areas that may generate unwanted air flow that would increase drag and reduce lift. NASA’s ‘advanced air transport technology’ project is addressing the challenge of developing energy efficient improvements to reduce emissions, maintain safety and revolutionize aircraft shapes and propulsions.

the truss provides extra wing support