International Hackathon on Bio-Inspired Aerospace Structures & Morphing Wings

International Hackathon on Bio-Inspired Aerospace Structures & Morphing Wings

Dates: Nov 21–23, 2026
Mode: Online
Organized by: Wings of Aero
Convenor: Ms. Suguna B – Co-Founder & CBO, Wings of Aero

1] About the Hackathon

The International Hackathon on Bio-Inspired Aerospace Structures & Morphing Wings brings together global innovators, researchers, engineers, and students to explore the next frontier of adaptive aerospace design. Nature has perfected mechanisms like shape-shifting wings, lightweight exoskeletons, dynamic feathers, and flexible yet strong biological materials. This hackathon challenges participants to reinterpret these biological principles to create adaptive, efficient, and resilient aerospace structures.

From morphing wings inspired by birds and insects to resilient structures inspired by marine organisms and plants, this event invites participants to design futuristic aerospace systems that redefine flight performance, endurance, and sustainability.

This hackathon supports nature-driven innovation, fueling ideas that can influence future aircraft, UAVs, space vehicles, and planetary exploration systems.

2] Problem Statements / Tracks

1. Bird-Inspired Adaptive Wing Structures

Problem: Birds dynamically change wing shape for lift, speed, and maneuvering—something modern aircraft cannot fully replicate.
Expected Solution: Design a morphing wing concept using joints, flexible skins, or actuators inspired by avian anatomy.

2. Insect Wing Microstructures for High Maneuverability UAVs

Problem: Insect wings offer unmatched agility due to membrane flexibility and vein patterns.
Expected Solution: Propose a lightweight UAV wing inspired by insect microstructure to enhance maneuverability and resilience.

3. Bio-Inspired Material Systems for Aerospace Flexibility

Problem: Aerospace structures require both strength and adaptability, a combination that biological tissues naturally offer.
Expected Solution: Develop composite or hybrid material concepts inspired by spider silk, bamboo, or fish scales for flex-strength optimization.

4. Morphing Wing Skin Systems Inspired by Reptiles and Fish

Problem: Aircraft skins struggle to stretch smoothly during wing morphing.
Expected Solution: Create a scale-like or layered flexible skin system that expands and contracts like snakes or fish.

5. Bird Feather Mechanisms for Drag Reduction

Problem: Current aerodynamic control surfaces increase drag during transitions.
Expected Solution: Propose a feather-inspired design that allows drag reduction using micro-features or deployable elements.

6. Load-Bearing Exoskeleton Structures for Lightweight Aerospace Vehicles

Problem: Achieving high strength-to-weight ratio in aerospace structures is challenging.
Expected Solution: Design an aircraft or rover structural frame inspired by beetle exoskeletons or hollow bone structures.

7. Adaptive Control Surfaces Inspired by Bat Wing Musculature

Problem: Conventional control surfaces offer limited shape variation.
Expected Solution: Model a bat-inspired muscular actuation system that offers multi-directional wing morphing.

8. Bio-Mimetic Vibration Damping Systems

Problem: Aerospace systems face structural vibration that reduces lifespan and efficiency.
Expected Solution: Develop damping concepts inspired by owl feathers, whale flippers, or tree root networks.

9. Nature-Inspired Planetary Rover Mobility Structures

Problem: Planetary rovers need adaptable and lightweight structures for extreme terrains.
Expected Solution: Create a rover frame or wheel system inspired by animals such as camels, lizards, or mountain goats for enhanced terrain capability.

10. Individual Innovation Track (Open Theme)

Participants may propose any bio-inspired concept related to aerospace morphing structures, adaptive aerodynamics, or lightweight bio-materials.
Solutions can include simulation models, prototypes, conceptual CAD designs, system architectures, or experimental setups.

3] Event Schedule (Three-Day)

📅 Day 1 – Nov 21, 2026

• 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Inauguration & Theme Briefing

• 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Expert Talk: Bio-Inspired Aerospace Design

• 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Team Formation & Problem Statement Review

• 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Hackathon Begins – Research & Concept Ideation

📅 Day 2 – Nov 22, 2026

• 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Mentorship Session & Idea Validation

• 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Prototype / Simulation / Design Development

• 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Preliminary Submission

📅 Day 3 – Nov 23, 2026

• 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Final Development & Pitch Preparation

• 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Final Presentation to Jury

• 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Results & Award Ceremony

4] Eligibility & Participation Rules

Team Size: 2–4 Members

Who Can Participate?

• Students (UG/PG/PhD)

• Researchers

• Aerospace, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Biology-inspired design learners

• Professionals & Innovators

Code of Conduct

• Maintain originality—plagiarism is strictly prohibited.

• Respect mentors, judges, and participants.

• Prototypes/simulations must be created during the hackathon.

• Ethical use of AI tools permitted with disclosure.

• Decision of judges is final.

5] Evaluation Criteria

1. Innovation & Creativity – Novelty and originality of the concept.

2. Practical Application / Social Impact – Real-world relevance and usefulness.

3. Technical Implementation – Engineering depth, feasibility, modeling, or prototyping.

4. Scalability & Feasibility – Potential for real-world deployment.

5. Presentation Quality – Clarity, structure, and communication.

6] Prizes & Recognition

🏆 Rewards

• Top 10 Winning Teams:
  USD 1000 Voucher under the Idea to Startup Scheme from SUKISH GROUP

• Top 3 Ideas:
  Will be shared with industry leaders for potential Seed Funding

Relevant Companies / Research Organizations

1. Airbus Emerging Technologies

2. NASA Langley Research Center

3. ISRO – Structures & Design Division

4. Boeing Advanced Concepts Group

5. Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt (DLR), Germany

Additional Benefits

• Certificates for all participants

• Innovation Awards during WOA International Awards 2026

• Presentation opportunity at related WOA International Conference

• Selected ideas published in WOA International Journal

7] Registration Section

Indian Team (4 Members): Rs. 499

Registration Link (Indian): https://rzp.io/rzp/OIdx3sUB

International Team (4 Members): USD 50

Registration Link (Foreigner): https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/GQX8AYUCPJ7GL

Registration Deadline: Nov 14, 2026

8] Contact Information

📧 Email: contact@wingsofaero.in
🌐 Website: www.wingsofaero.in/events