Method for Producing a Surface of a Component, Said Surface Having Reduced Drag and Component with Reduced Drag

Abstract

A method for the production of a riblet film, having at least one surface that reduces airflow resistance involves the provision of a metal film that is structured using a mechanical treatment.

Description

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION[0001]Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a method for the production of a surface of a component with reduced airflow resistance. In particular, the component in this case is a structural component, such as is found in aircraft, helicopters, or flying bodies. After the method is carried out, the surface of the component has a reduced airflow resistance.[0002]The reduction of fuel consumption and the reduction of emissions of carbon dioxide / nitrogen oxide (CO2 / NOx) are important goals, particularly for the airplane industry or the automobile industry. In addition to lightweight construction for the purpose of reducing weight, and improving the degree of efficiency of engines, the reduction of airflow resistance is an essential component in the attempt to reach this goal.[0003]Methods for the production of surfaces that reduce the airflow resistance thereof are known. It has been known for a long time, and proven in oil chan...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a method for reducing fuel consumption and emissions in airplanes and automobiles. One way to achieve this is by using a riblet film which is produced using a certain method. When this riblet film is applied to a component, it reduces the airflow resistance which helps to improve efficiency and reduce weight.

Problems solved by technology

The structured plastic films used to date, however, not only are deficient in their mechanical resistance, but also demonstrate degradation of the plastic film and the adhesive with which the plastic films are adhered to the aircraft.

The degradation can also lead to the plastic films becoming detached during operation.

Such a direct structuring of aircraft structures by means of casting processes or machining methods (structuring by laser, or micromachining, etc.) is, however, neither technically nor economically possible at the surface sizes required for aircraft, helicopters, or other flying devices.

It is known that damage caused by lightning is greater with greater thickness of the organic, non-conducting layer of matrix resin and paint over the embedded metal insert.

These, substantially oriented parallel to the flow, reduce the airflow resistance and therefore increase the uplift, for example of an aircraft, a turbine blade, a helicopter rotor, or another body.

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