What innovation did the Wright Brothers implement to achieve controlled flight?

The innovation that the Wright Brothers implemented to achieve controlled flight was wing warping. This technique allowed the pilot to control the aircraft's roll by twisting the wings, thereby changing their shape and altering the lift generated on each side. The concept was crucial for lateral stability and control, which were essential for maintaining equilibrium during flight.

Wing warping was particularly significant because, at the time, there were no established methods for effective lateral control in aircraft. By developing this mechanism, the Wright Brothers made it possible for pilots to steer their planes and counteract the rolling motions caused by changes in speed and wind conditions. This innovation laid the groundwork for future developments in aircraft control systems, leading to the construction of ailerons, which eventually became a standard in aviation design to provide more precise lateral control.