Aircraft wing, aircraft and cable harness sleeve

Abstract

The invention relates to an aircraft wing, an aircraft and a cable harness sleeve. An aircraft wing (3) is disclosed comprising a fixed wing (5) and a wing tip device (11) mounted in a movable manner. A first cable harness (15a) and a second cable harness (15b) received in a protective sleeve (25) extend between the fixed wing (5) and the wing tip device (11). The protective sleeve is in a fixed configuration in which at least two opposing portions of the sleeve (25) are fixed together between the first cable harness (15a) and the second cable harness (15b) to provide the sleeve (25) a first channel in which the first cable harness (15a) is received, a second channel in which the second cable harness (15b) is received, and a band-shaped region in which the first cable harness (15a) is received, the band-shaped region extends between the first channel and the second channel such that the first cable harness (15a) and the second cable harness (15b) are held apart by the band-shaped region.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to an aircraft wing comprising a fixed wing, a movable wing tip device and a cable harness extending from the fixed wing into the wing tip device. The present invention further relates to an aircraft and a protective sleeve for a cable harness. BACKGROUND

[0002] There is a trend towards wings with increasing aspect ratio for large passenger aircraft, thus requiring a correspondingly large wing span. However, the maximum aircraft wing span is in practice limited by airport operating regulations governing various clearances required when manoeuvring around an airport (such as wing span and / or ground clearance required for gate access and use of taxiways).

[0003] Accordingly, movable wing tip devices have been introduced into passenger aircraft, wherein the wing tip device is movable between a flight configuration for use during flight and a ground configuration for use during ground-based operations. In the flight configuration, the wing tip device forms an extension of the wing and contributes to the lift generated by the wing. In the ground configuration, the wing tip device is moved away from the flight configuration such that the effective wing span of the aircraft wing is reduced, allowing the use of existing gates and taxiways. This arrangement is sometimes referred to as a “folding wing tip”.

[0004] It is desirable to pass power and / or data into the folding wing tip. In most parts of the aircraft, power and data can be readily provided via suitable electrical wiring. This is typically provided in a cable harness (also known as a wiring harness or wiring loom). However, in the case of a folding wing tip, there are several challenges. Firstly, the cable harness must extend through the joint and must therefore be arranged to cope with repeated exposure to potentially harsh environmental conditions, to cope with movement and / or to cope with changes in tension load. Secondly, the available volume within the aircraft structure towards the wing tip tends to be relatively small. Accordingly, the ability to incorporate a degree of slack in the cable harness can be limited.

[0005] It has also been recognized that it can be beneficial to provide high voltage feed to a folding wing tip. However, the use of high voltage feed presents several challenges. For example, it is necessary to sufficiently isolate the high voltage wiring from adjacent structures to ensure that the adjacent structures are not damaged in the event of an arc discharge. It is also necessary to reliably isolate the high voltage wiring from other wiring. This can be challenging near a folding wing tip, as space tends to be relatively small (exacerbated by the need to provide two independent feed sections within that space to ensure redundancy). The movement of the folding wing tip also causes movement of the cable harness, so it can be necessary to provide additional tolerance to accommodate this situation to ensure that there is no risk of arc discharge and to ensure that there is no possibility of abrasion, for example with other wiring if present.

[0006] Aspects of the present invention seek to alleviate one or more of the above challenges. Alternatively or additionally, aspects of the present invention seek to provide improved aircraft wings having movable wing tip devices and improved aircraft, and improved cable harness sleeves.

[0007] WO2023165963 (Latelec) discloses a fastener for securing at least one cable to a structure of an aircraft wing, a portion of the structure being movable between an initial position and a final position. A clamping collar is inserted into a base plate and the base plate holds the clamping collar in a nominal position when the movable portion of the structure is in the initial position. The clamping collar rotates around a rotation pin when one of the cables is biased in one direction by movement of the movable portion of the structure. The collar returns to the nominal position when the cable is released.

[0008] US20230242242 (Airbus Operations Limited) discloses a folding wing tip arrangement having an inductive coupler arranged to inductively transfer data and / or power between a main wing element and a movable wing tip device. US20230242245 (Airbus Operations Limited) discloses a folding wing tip having an energy accumulator configured to store energy. The energy accumulator enables energy to be moved slowly between a main wing element and a movable wing tip device while still providing a suitable power source to the device. In an embodiment of US20230242245, an inductive coupler is used to transfer energy. The use of an inductive coupler provides an alternative solution to the challenge of transferring power and data across a folding wing tip joint, i.e. the inductive coupler eliminates the need for wiring to cross the joint.

[0009] US9455557 (Airbus Operations Limited) discloses an electrical wire conduit and a protector for protecting a wire / cable when it spans a gap between sections of the conduit. US9455557 discloses a protector arrangement for the cable conduit itself, rather than addressing the specific challenges of a folding wing tip. SUMMARY

[0010] According to a first aspect of the application, there is provided an aircraft wing. The wing comprises a fixed wing and a wing tip device, the wing tip device being movably mounted at a joint at an end of the fixed wing. The wing tip device is movable about the joint between (i) a flight configuration for use during flight and (ii) a ground configuration for use during ground-based operations, in which ground configuration the wing tip device is moved relative to the fixed wing such that the wingspan of the wing is reduced. The wing comprises a first cable harness and a second cable harness, the first and second cable harnesses extending between the fixed wing and the wing tip device, and each of the first and second cable harnesses comprising a plurality of conductors arranged to transmit electrical power and / or data to the wing tip device. The wing further comprises a protective sleeve, and the first and second cable harnesses are received in the protective sleeve. The protective sleeve is configured in the fixed configuration in which at least two opposing portions of the protective sleeve are secured together between the first and second cable harnesses to provide the sleeve with: a first passageway in which the first cable harness is received; a second passageway in which the second cable harness is received; and a banded region formed by the at least two opposing portions, the banded region extending between the first and second passageways such that the first and second cable harnesses are held apart by the banded region.

[0011] The aircraft wing according to the first aspect of the application comprises a protective sleeve which carries two cable harnesses. It has been found that the protective sleeve is particularly beneficial as it can ensure that the two harnesses do not interfere with each other (and thus cause, for example, abrasion or friction) during movement of the wing tip between the flight and ground configurations. This arrangement can also ensure that both cable harnesses can be held in a relatively compact arrangement, which has been found to be particularly important for the tip of an aircraft wing. Furthermore, the use of the protective sleeve of the present application can allow high voltage cable harnesses to be placed closer to other wiring than prior art arrangements. In particular, the banded region of the sleeve ensures that the two cable harnesses do not come into contact. By providing high voltage cable harnesses in the protective sleeve, the risk of arcing discharges to adjacent structures is also reduced, allowing the use of cable harnesses in the limited volume of the wing tip.

[0012] The protective sleeve can comprise a material that is elastically deformable. The protective sleeve can be elastically deformable into a fixed configuration.

[0013] The sleeve is an electrical insulator. The protective sleeve can comprise a fluorosilicone polymer. It has been found that a sleeve comprising a fluorosilicone polymer is particularly beneficial. In particular, it has been found that fluorosilicone polymers have properties that make them surprisingly beneficial in the context of a folding wing tip. For example, this type of material can have good resistance to environmental conditions to which the sleeve is exposed, as well as providing the necessary electrical insulation properties.

[0014] A fluorosilicone polymer is an elastomer made from a silicone polymer chain with fluorinated pendant groups. The fluorosilicone polymer can comprise a silicone polymer having pendant methyl and / or vinyl groups attached to silicon atoms in the chain, wherein at least some of the pendant groups are fluorinated. Optionally, the polymer contains fluorinated alkyl pendant groups, such as trifluoropropyl groups. Such a fluorosilicone polymer can have the general formula (A):

[0015]

[0016] Such a fluorosilicone polymer can have the general formula (B):

[0017] [-(Si(CH3)2-O) m -(Si(CH3)(C2H4CF3)-O) n -] Structure B.

[0018] The fluorosilicone polymer can be referred to as an FVMQ material.

[0019] Optionally, the sleeve comprises at least 95% by weight of the fluorosilicone polymer, optionally at least 96%, optionally at least 97%, optionally at least 98%, and optionally at least 99% by weight of the fluorosilicone polymer. Optionally, the sleeve is formed from the fluorosilicone polymer.

[0020] The sleeve, and optionally the fluorosilicone polymer, can optionally have a hardness of 60 to 80, optionally 62 to 78, optionally 65 to 75, and optionally about 70, as measured on a Shore A durometer. Such a hardness can be particularly effective in the multiple bending and unbending processes to which a folding wing tip is subjected. The Shore A hardness can be determined using ISO 7619-1 :2010.

[0021] The O-ring of the protective sleeve and optionally the fluoro silicone polymer optionally has a tensile strength of 2 MPa to 6 MPa, optionally 3 MPa to 5 MPa, and optionally about 4 MPa, as determined according to ISO 37 (test specimen S2), and an elongation at break of 100% to 150%, optionally 110% to 140%, and optionally 120% to 130%.

[0022] The standard test specimen of the protective sleeve and optionally the fluoro silicone polymer optionally has a tensile strength of 4 MPa to 12 MPa, optionally 6 MPa to 10 MPa, and optionally 7 MPa to 9 MPa, as determined on a standard test specimen according to ISO 37, and an elongation at break of 200% to 500%, optionally 250% to 450%, optionally 300% to 400%, and optionally about 350%.

[0023] The protective sleeve and optionally the fluoro silicone polymer optionally has a tear strength of 5 N / mm to 40 N / mm, optionally 10 N / mm to 40 N / mm, optionally 10 N / mm to 30 N / mm, and optionally about 20 N / mm, as determined according to ISO 34-1, test method B, procedure b.

[0024] The sleeve and optionally the FVMQ fluoro silicone polymer has a temperature related to low temperature resistance as determined by TR 10 in ISO 2921, which does not exceed -20°C, optionally does not exceed -30°C, optionally does not exceed -40°C, and optionally does not exceed -50°C.

[0025] It has been found that the composition of the fluoro silicone polymer has the advantageous properties described above, and it has also been found that the composition of the fluoro silicone polymer copes well with repeated flexing that occurs during movement of the wing tip device between the ground configuration and the flight configuration.

[0026] The sleeve can be made of a single piece of material. For example, the sleeve can be molded. The sleeve can be extruded.

[0027] The band region can include a barrier positioned between the first cable bundle and the second cable bundle. The barrier can facilitate preventing arcing between the first cable bundle and the second cable bundle. The barrier can at least partially form a wall of the first channel. The barrier can at least partially form a wall of the second channel.

[0028] In the secured configuration of the protective sleeve, the at least two opposing portions can be secured together by a plurality of fasteners. The fasteners can pass through the at least two opposing portions. The fasteners can be spaced apart along a length direction of the protective sleeve. The fasteners can be two-part pins. The fasteners can be integrally formed with the sleeve. In embodiments, other suitable types of fasteners can be used. The fasteners can pass through the opposing portions in the band region.

[0029] The sleeve can be arranged such that, in the secured configuration of the sleeve, the first cable bundle is spaced apart from the second cable bundle by at least 10 millimetres. The sleeve can be arranged such that, in the secured configuration of the sleeve, the first cable bundle is spaced apart from the second cable bundle by at least 20 millimetres. However, in embodiments of the application, the first cable bundle can be positioned closer to the second cable bundle, particularly where the band region provides a barrier between the first cable bundle and the second cable bundle.

[0030] The sleeve can comprise an outer wall. A portion of the outer wall surrounding the respective cable bundle can have a thickness of at least 2 millimetres.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first protruding member can protrude from an inner surface of the outer wall on the first opposing portion. In the secured configuration of the protective sleeve, the first protruding member can be in abutment with the second opposing portion of the protective sleeve, such that the first protruding member at least partially forms a barrier between the first cable bundle and the second cable bundle. The outer wall can be continuous. The sleeve can have a closed cross-section. Where the sleeve has a closed cross-section, there can be only two opposing portions. The first protruding member can comprise a rib. The first protruding member can extend along a longitudinal length of the sleeve. The first protruding member can be positioned at or towards a first lateral side of the first opposing portion. The first protruding member can be positioned at or towards an opposite second lateral side of the first opposing portion.

[0032] The sleeve can comprise a second protruding member (which can correspond to a “third protruding member” as described below) protruding from an inner surface of the outer wall on the first opposing portion. The second protruding member is laterally spaced apart from the first protruding member. In the secured configuration of the protective sleeve, the first protruding member can be in abutment with the second opposing portion of the protective sleeve, such that the second protruding member at least partially forms a barrier between the first cable bundle and the second cable bundle.

[0033] The sleeve can include a second protruding member protruding from an inner surface of the protective sleeve on the second opposing portion. In the secured configuration of the protective sleeve, the second protruding member can abut the first opposing portion of the protective sleeve such that the second protruding member at least partially forms a barrier between the first cable bundle and the second cable bundle. The second protruding member can include a rib. The second protruding member can extend along a longitudinal length of the sleeve. The second protruding member can be positioned at or toward a first lateral side of the second opposing portion. The second protruding member can be positioned at or toward an opposite second lateral side of the second opposing portion. The second protruding member can be positioned opposite the first protruding member. The second protruding member can be laterally spaced apart from the first protruding member.

[0034] The first protruding member can be positioned opposite the second protruding member such that, in the secured configuration of the sleeve, the first protruding member and the second protruding member abut each other. The first protruding member and the second protruding member can form a wall between the first cable bundle and the second cable bundle.

[0035] One or both of the first protruding member or the second protruding member can abut an opposing portion of the protective sleeve that is proximate the other of the first protruding member or the second protruding member. The first protruding member and the second protruding member can partially define a wall of the first channel or the second channel. There can be a third protruding member and an optional fourth protruding member. The third protruding member and the fourth protruding member can have any of the features described with respect to the respective first protruding member and second protruding member.

[0036] The third protruding member can be positioned at or near an opposite second lateral side of the first opposing portion. The fourth protruding member can be positioned at or near an opposite second lateral side of the second opposing portion. The third protruding member can be positioned opposite the fourth protruding member. The third protruding member and the fourth protruding member can partially define a wall of the first channel or the second channel.

[0037] In some embodiments, the protective sleeve includes a sheet. In the secured configuration of the protective sleeve, the sheet is wrapped around at least one of the first cable bundle or the second cable bundle, and a first opposing portion of the sheet is secured to a second opposing portion of the sheet to form at least one of the first channel or the second channel. The sheet can have an un-deformed configuration in which the sheet is substantially planar, in which case securing the protective sleeve into the secured configuration would require deforming the sheet to wrap the sheet around at least one of the first cable bundle or the second cable bundle. Alternatively, the sheet can be pre-formed into a shape that matches or closely matches the shape of the protective sleeve in the secured configuration.

[0038] The sheet can include a first portion, a second portion, and an intermediate portion between the first portion and the second portion. In the secured configuration of the protective sleeve, the first portion of the sheet can be wrapped around the first cable bundle. An end of the first portion can form an opposing portion that is secured to an opposing portion formed by the intermediate portion to provide the first passageway. The second portion of the sheet can be wrapped around the second cable bundle. An end of the second portion can form an opposing portion that is secured to an opposing portion formed by the intermediate portion to form the second passageway. At least one of the intermediate portion and the second portion or the first portion can form a band region. The end of the first portion can form an opposing portion. The end of the second portion can form an opposing portion. The intermediate portion can form an opposing portion.

[0039] In some embodiments, the first portion of the sheet is wrapped around the first cable bundle in a first direction, and the second portion of the sheet is wrapped around the second cable bundle in the first direction, such that the intermediate portion forms a barrier between the first cable bundle and the second cable bundle. This arrangement is particularly advantageous because the intermediate portion provides a physical barrier between the first cable bundle and the second cable bundle. For example, the first portion of the sheet can extend from the intermediate portion over the first cable bundle and wrap back toward the intermediate portion under the first cable bundle, and the second portion of the sheet can extend from the intermediate portion under the second cable bundle and wrap back toward the intermediate portion over the second cable bundle. Alternatively, the first portion of the sheet can extend from the intermediate portion under the first cable bundle and wrap back toward the intermediate portion over the first cable bundle, and the second portion of the sheet can extend from the intermediate portion over the second cable bundle and wrap back toward the intermediate portion under the second cable bundle. Both the first portion and the second portion can wrap around their respective cable bundles in a clockwise direction, or alternatively, both the first portion and the first portion can wrap around their respective cable bundles in a counterclockwise direction.

[0040] The sheet can have a thickness. The thickness of the first portion of the sheet can be substantially equal to the thickness of the second portion of the sheet. The thickness of the intermediate portion of the sheet can be greater than the thickness of the first portion or the second portion. For example, the thickness of the intermediate portion of the sheet can be at least 20% greater than the thickness of the first portion or the second portion. In some embodiments, the thickness of the intermediate portion can be at least 50% greater than the thickness of the first portion or the second portion. However, in some embodiments, the sheet can have a substantially constant thickness, in which case the thickness of the first portion, the second portion, and the intermediate portion can be substantially equal to one another. The thickness of the sheet or the thickness of each portion of the sheet can be equal to at least 1 millimeter. In some embodiments, the thickness of the sheet or the thickness of each portion of the sheet can be equal to at least 2 millimeters. It is contemplated that the thickness of any portion of the sheet will generally not exceed 10 millimeters, although in certain embodiments, any portion of the sheet can have a greater thickness.

[0041] In the secured configuration of the protective sleeve, the end of the first portion of the sheet can be secured to the end of the second portion of the sheet. The intermediate portion can be sandwiched between the end of the first portion and the end of the second portion.

[0042] The sleeve can have a first end proximate to the fixed wing and a second end proximate to the wing tip device, such that the sleeve extends across the joint over the length of the cable harness. The aircraft wing can be arranged such that when the wing tip device is in the ground configuration, the length of the sleeve between the first end and the second end is exposed to the external environment. It has been found that aspects of the present invention are particularly beneficial in this portion of the aircraft wing, as this portion tends to be exposed to harsh environmental conditions. Furthermore, the sleeve and / or the harness in this portion of the aircraft wing is prone to experiencing motion, and / or changes in tension load.

[0043] The sleeve can be removable from the cable harness between the first end and the second end. It has been found that this arrangement is particularly beneficial, as it can allow the sleeve to be installed and / or removed, for example, for replacement or maintenance, without the need to remove the harness. Furthermore, it has been found that it is particularly beneficial to ensure that the sleeve of this particular length, i.e. the length that spans the joint, is removable, as it is the length that is most likely to be exposed to potential damage or wear. Furthermore, this length tends to be easily accessible when the wing tip device is in the ground configuration.

[0044] The first end of the sleeve can be fixedly held in place relative to the fixed wing. The second end of the sleeve can be fixedly held in place relative to the wing tip device. The length of the sleeve between the first end and the second end can be configured to flex during movement of the wing tip device between the flight configuration and the ground configuration, thereby accommodating the movement of the harness during movement between these configurations.

[0045] The first and second end portions of the sleeve can be fixedly held in place by a clamp. The clamp can be releasable. This arrangement has been found to be particularly beneficial in facilitating effective removal of the sleeve.

[0046] The first cable harness can comprise high voltage conductors arranged to transmit a high voltage supply. The high voltage supply can be at least 240V DC. The high voltage supply can be up to 270V DC. The high voltage supply can be up to 300V DC. The high voltage supply can be 270V DC. Aspects of the present application can be particularly beneficial when the cable harness is used for a high voltage supply, as the presence of high voltage gives rise to particular safety requirements. For example, in order to minimise the risk of arcing, the high voltage supply must be kept a minimum distance away from other electrical wiring, and must also be kept a minimum distance away from adjacent aircraft structures.

[0047] In arrangements comprising a second cable harness, the second cable harness can comprise low voltage conductors arranged to transmit a low voltage supply. The low voltage supply can be less than 40V DC. The low voltage supply can be 28V or less.

[0048] The sleeve can be arranged such that the first cable harness is spaced apart from the second cable harness by less than 75mm, and more preferably by less than 50mm. The sleeve can be arranged such that the first cable harness is spaced apart from the second cable harness by 25mm or less.

[0049] The sleeve can comprise a wall which substantially encircles the or each cable harness. Where the sleeve comprises a FVMQ material, the wall can have a wall thickness of at least 0.79mm. It has been found that this wall thickness is the minimum thickness required to ensure arcing protection when the sleeve comprises a FVMQ material. The wall thickness can be at least 1mm, and more preferably at least 2mm. The wall can have a wall thickness of less than 5mm.

[0050] The aircraft wing can comprise a sleeve guide. The sleeve guide can be located above the sleeve. The sleeve guide can be configured to constrain the movement of the sleeve such that the sleeve is bent around the sleeve guide during movement of the wing tip device from the flight configuration to the ground configuration. This arrangement can be beneficial as it tends to ensure a predictable movement trajectory of the sleeve during movement of the wing tip from the flight configuration to the ground configuration. The risk of the cable harness coming too close to adjacent structures is therefore reduced.

[0051] The sleeve can be in contact with the sleeve guide when the wing tip device is in the flight configuration, and the sleeve is more preferably forced against the sleeve guide. The sleeve can be biased against the sleeve guide. This arrangement can be beneficial as it mitigates against vibrational movement of the sleeve which would otherwise risk subjecting the sleeve to excessive wear.

[0052] The aircraft wing can comprise a second sleeve guide. The second sleeve guide can be located below the sleeve. The second sleeve guide can be configured to constrain movement of the sleeve such that the sleeve flexes around the sleeve guide during movement of the wing tip device from the ground configuration to the flight configuration. This arrangement can be beneficial as it tends to ensure a predictable movement trajectory of the sleeve during movement of the wing tip from the ground configuration to the flight configuration.

[0053] In the flight configuration, the sleeve can be in contact with the sleeve guide and more preferably forced against the second sleeve guide. This arrangement can be beneficial as it mitigates against oscillatory movement of the sleeve.

[0054] It has been found that the combination of the first sleeve guide and the second sleeve guide is particularly beneficial as it can achieve a predictable movement trajectory of the sleeve during movement of the wing tip in both directions between the ground configuration and the flight configuration.

[0055] The sleeve guide can be offset in the vertical direction from a line joining each end of the sleeve. In this way, the sleeve can be fed between the two sleeve guides such that the sleeve is naturally forced against both sleeve guides thereby constraining oscillatory movement.

[0056] The at least one sleeve guide and preferably both sleeve guides are associated with the fixed wing. The sleeve guide or each sleeve guide can be mounted on and fixed relative to the fixed wing.

[0057] The sleeve can comprise a slit. The slit can extend along a length of the sleeve. The sleeve can be elastically deformable to open the slit such that the sleeve can be removed from the cable bundle by opening the slit around the cable bundle.

[0058] The slit can be located on an underside of the sleeve. It has been found that this arrangement is beneficial as it can limit ingress of water and / or it can allow any moisture accumulated in the sleeve to drain.

[0059] The sleeve can comprise a pair of closure tabs located either side of the slit. The pair of closure tabs can be held together to close the slit. In some embodiments of the invention, the closure tabs can be held together by a plurality of fasteners.

[0060] The sleeve can comprise a first slit extending along a length of the first channel and a second slit extending along a length of the second channel. The sleeve can be elastically deformable to open the first slit and the second slit such that the sleeve can be removed from the first cable bundle and the second cable bundle by opening the first slit and the second slit around the respective first cable bundle and second cable bundle.

[0061] Each of the plurality of conductors in the cable harness is preferably a shielded conductor. Each of the conductors can take a variety of forms depending on its use. The conductors can be wires, but are more preferably cables. For example, the conductors can be single core cables or multi-core cables. The first cable harness and / or the second cable harness can each comprise a plurality of conductors.

[0062] The aircraft wing can comprise a first assembly comprising a sleeve and a cable harness as described with reference to any of the above aspects, and a second assembly comprising a sleeve and a cable harness as described with reference to any of the above aspects. The second assembly can be arranged as a back-up assembly in the event of failure of the first assembly. One of the assemblies can be positioned towards a leading edge of the wing. The other of the assemblies can be positioned towards a trailing edge of the wing.

[0063] The fixed wing can have an upper surface and a lower surface. The wing tip device can have an upper surface and a lower surface. In the flight configuration, the upper and lower surfaces of the wing tip device can be a continuation of the upper and lower surfaces of the fixed wing. In the flight configuration, the trailing edge of the wing tip device can be a continuation of the trailing edge of the fixed wing. The leading edge of the wing tip device can be a continuation of the leading edge of the fixed wing. There can be a smooth transition from the fixed wing to the wing tip device. It will be appreciated that a smooth transition can be present even when the shape of the wing is such that there is a change in sweep or twist at the junction between the fixed wing and the wing tip device. There can be no discontinuity at the junction between the fixed wing and the wing tip device.

[0064] The rotation of the wing tip device from the flight configuration to the ground configuration can comprise an upward rotation of the wing tip device relative to the fixed wing. In this way, the wing can comply with airport compatibility gate restrictions while also maintaining a reasonable ground clearance.

[0065] In the flight configuration, the wingspan of the wing can exceed the airport compatibility gate restriction. In the ground configuration, the wingspan is reduced such that the wingspan (with the wing tip device in the ground configuration) is less than or substantially equal to the airport compatibility gate restriction. In the ground configuration, the wing tip device can be positioned such that the wing has its shortest wingspan. In the ground configuration, the wing tip device can be oriented substantially vertically.

[0066] The wing tip device can be rotated from the ground configuration to the flight configuration in a first direction. The wing tip device can be rotated from the flight configuration to the ground configuration in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0067] The wing tip device can be a wing tip extension, such as a generally planar wing tip extension. In other embodiments, the wing tip device can comprise or consist of a non-planar device, such as a winglet. The wing tip device can comprise a further wing section having a further moveable wing tip device at a distal end thereof. The skilled person will be aware of other devices suitable for being disposed in moveable fashion at a wing tip. The wing tip device can comprise a trailing edge moveable device (aileron) for control or a leading edge device, such as a slat or drooped nose device, for stall protection.

[0068] The fixed wing can have a span ratio with respect to the wing tip device of at least 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or more of the total span of the wing.

[0069] When the wing tip device is in the ground configuration, the aircraft can not be suitable for flight. For example, the wing tip device can not be aerodynamically and / or structurally suitable for flight in the ground configuration. The aircraft is preferably configured such that during flight the wing tip device cannot be moved to the ground configuration. The aircraft can comprise a sensor for sensing when the aircraft is in flight. When the sensor senses that the aircraft is in flight, the control system is preferably arranged to inhibit the possibility of moving the wing tip device to the ground configuration. In the ground configuration, the wing tip device can be held in place. For example, the wing tip device can be latched or locked in place to prevent movement back towards the flight configuration.

[0070] The aircraft can comprise an actuator for moving the wing tip device between the flight configuration and the ground configuration.

[0071] The wing tip device is moveably mounted at a junction at an end of the fixed wing. The junction can be a hinged junction. The junction can comprise a plurality of lugs. A hinge axis can pass through the plurality of lugs about which the wing tip device is rotatable between the flight configuration and the ground configuration.

[0072] The wing can comprise a third cable bundle extending between the fixed wing and the wing tip device. The third cable bundle can comprise a plurality of conductors arranged to transmit power and / or data to the wing tip device. A portion of the intermediate portion of the sheet can at least partially define a third channel in which the third cable bundle is received. A portion of the intermediate portion adjacent the third channel and at least one of the second portion or the first portion can form a banded region. A portion of the intermediate portion between the third channel and one of the first channel or the second channel can form a banded region. The sleeve can comprise a further sheet fixed to the intermediate portion of the first sheet to provide the third channel between the first sheet and the further sheet.

[0073] The other sheet can be secured to the intermediate portion of the first sheet on a first side of the third passage. The other sheet can be secured to the intermediate portion of the first sheet on an opposite second side of the third passage. The sleeve can include a first strip region on the first side of the third passage. The sleeve can include a second strip region on the opposite second side of the third passage.

[0074] The first and second cable bundles can have substantially equal diameters. The third cable bundle can have a diameter greater than the diameters of the first and second cable bundles. The first, second, and third cable bundles, if present, can all have different diameters.

[0075] According to a second aspect of the application, there is provided an aircraft comprising a wing according to the first aspect of the application.

[0076] The aircraft can be a passenger aircraft. The passenger aircraft preferably comprises a passenger cabin comprising a plurality of rows and columns of seat units for accommodating a plurality of passengers. The aircraft can have a capacity of at least 20 passengers, more preferably at least 50 passengers, and optionally more than 75 passengers. The aircraft can be a commercial aircraft, for example a commercial passenger aircraft, for example a single-aisle or twin-aisle aircraft. The aircraft need not be configured to carry passengers, but for example can be a comparable sized aircraft configured for carrying cargo and / or for non-commercial use. The aircraft can have a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of at least 20 tonnes, optionally at least 40 tonnes, and possibly 50 tonnes or more. The aircraft can have an operating empty weight of at least 20 tonnes, optionally at least 30 tonnes, and possibly about 40 tonnes or more.

[0077] According to a third aspect of the application, there is provided a cable bundle sleeve configured for use on a folding wing. The sleeve has an outer wall surrounding an interior space and defining an interior passage, a first opposing portion on a first side of the outer wall, a second opposing portion on an opposite second side of the outer wall, and a first protruding member protruding from an inner surface of the outer wall on the first opposing portion. The protective sleeve is configurable to a secured configuration in which the first opposing portion is moved towards the second opposing portion to move the first protruding member into abutment with the second opposing portion, thereby providing the sleeve with a first passage configured to receive a first cable bundle, a second passage configured to receive a second cable bundle, and a strip region formed by the first and second opposing portions. The strip region extends between the first and second passages to secure the position of the first passage relative to the second passage.

[0078] The cable harness sleeve according to the third aspect of the application is suitable for use as the protective sleeve of the aircraft wing according to the first embodiment of the application. The cable harness sleeve according to the third aspect of the application can have any of the features of the cable harness sleeve of the aircraft wing described above in relation to the first aspect of the application.

[0079] The protective sleeve can comprise a second protruding member protruding from an inner surface of the protective sleeve on the second opposing portion. In the fixed configuration of the protective sleeve, the second protruding member can be in abutment with the first opposing portion of the protective sleeve.

[0080] The outer wall of the protective sleeve can have a first side portion and an opposing second side portion. The first opposing portion can connect the first side portion with the second side portion at an upper side of the sleeve. The second opposing portion can connect the first side portion with the second side portion at an opposing lower side of the sleeve. An internal height of the first side portion can be greater than an internal height of the second side portion, such that the first passageway has a greater internal dimension than the second passageway when the sleeve is in the fixed configuration.

[0081] The sleeve can define a main passageway when the sleeve is not in the fixed configuration. The main passageway can be at least partially defined by the first side portion and the second side portion. In the fixed configuration of the sleeve, the first side portion can at least partially define the first passageway. In the fixed configuration of the sleeve, the second side portion can at least partially define the second passageway.

[0082] A first plurality of fixing portions can be formed in the first opposing portion, the first plurality of fixing portions being spaced apart along the first opposing portion. A second plurality of fixing portions can be formed in the second opposing portion, the second plurality of fixing portions being spaced apart along the second opposing portion. The first plurality of fixing portions can be arranged relative to the second plurality of fixing portions such that, in the fixed configuration of the cable harness, the first plurality of fixing portions are aligned with the second plurality of fixing portions. The fixing portions can be apertures, and thus, the first opposing portion can be fixed to the second opposing portion using fasteners, each fastener passing through the first opposing portion and the second opposing portion. In some embodiments, one of the plurality of fixing portions can comprise a fastener. The fastener can be integrally formed with a wall of the sleeve.

[0083] According to a fourth aspect, the present application provides another cable harness sleeve configured for use on a folding wing. The cable harness sleeve comprises a sheet comprising a first portion, an intermediate portion and a second portion arranged along a transverse direction of the sheet, the intermediate portion being positioned between the first portion and the second portion. A first plurality of fixing portions are spaced apart along a longitudinal direction of the sheet at an end of the first portion of the sheet, a second plurality of fixing portions are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the sheet at the intermediate portion of the sheet, and a third plurality of fixing portions are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the sheet at an end of the second portion of the sheet. The sheet is configurable into a fixed configuration in which the first portion of the sheet is folded about an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction to a position in which the first plurality of fixing portions are aligned with the second plurality of fixing portions, such that the first portion of the sheet at least partially defines a first channel; the second portion of the sheet is folded about an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction to a position in which the third plurality of fixing portions are aligned with the second plurality of fixing portions, such that the second portion of the sheet at least partially defines a second channel; and the intermediate portion is positioned between the first channel and the second channel to space the first channel and the second channel apart.

[0084] The cable harness sleeve according to the fourth aspect of the present application is suitable for use as the protective sleeve of the aircraft wing according to the first embodiment of the present application. The cable harness sleeve according to the fourth aspect of the present application can have any of the features of the cable harness sleeve of the aircraft wing described above in relation to the first aspect of the present application.

[0085] The sheet can have a thickness. The thickness of the sheet can be substantially constant. The thickness of the first portion of the sheet, the second portion of the sheet and the intermediate portion of the sheet can be approximately equal to one another. In some embodiments, the thickness of the intermediate portion of the sheet can be greater than the thickness of the first portion or the second portion.

[0086] The fixing portions can be apertures. In some embodiments, the fixing portions can comprise fasteners. The fasteners can be integrally formed with the sheet.

[0087] According to another aspect of the present application, there is provided a sleeve for receiving a first cable harness comprising a plurality of high pressure cables and a second cable harness comprising a plurality of low pressure cables. The sleeve can be formed of a fluorosilicone polymer. The cable harnesses extend between a fixed wing and a movable wing tip device on an aircraft. The sleeve comprises a first annular channel for receiving the first cable harness and a second annular channel for receiving the second cable harness. The two channels are coupled such that movement of each cable harness towards or away from the adjacent cable harness is substantially prevented. The sleeve comprises a slit along each channel such that the sleeve can be removed from the harnesses.

[0088] It will of course be appreciated that features described in relation to one aspect of the application can be incorporated into any and all other aspects of the application. For example, features described in relation to the protective sleeve of the third and fourth embodiments of the application can also be applicable to the aircraft wing of the first embodiment of the application, and features described in relation to the aircraft wing of the first embodiment of the application can also be applicable to the protective sleeve of the third and fourth embodiments of the application. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0089] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which:

[0090] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B show plan and elevation views of an aircraft according to embodiments of the application;

[0091] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B are cross-sectional views of the leading edge of a wing at the junction between the fixed wing and the wing tip device of an aircraft when the wing tip device is in a flight configuration FIG. 2A ) and a ground configuration FIG. 2B ) respectively, showing a cable harness sleeve extending between the fixed wing and the wing tip device;

[0092] FIG. 3 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the trailing edge at the junction in an aircraft, showing a cable harness sleeve extending between the fixed wing and the wing tip device;

[0093] FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are enlarged views of either end of the cable harness sleeve shown in FIG. 3 ;

[0094] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D show various stages of removal and replacement of the cable harness sleeve;

[0095] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cable harness sleeve according to an embodiment of the application;

[0096] FIG. 7 shows the cable harness sleeve of FIG. 6 , where the cable harness sleeve has been deformed into a fixed configuration;

[0097] FIG. 8 shows the cable harness sleeve of FIG. 6 , where fasteners are in place ready to secure the cable harness sleeve in a fixed configuration;

[0098] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a cable harness sleeve according to an embodiment of the application;FIG. 6 a perspective view of the cable harness sleeve of

[0099] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cable harness sleeve according to another embodiment of the present application;

[0100] FIG. 11 shows FIG. 10 a cable harness sleeve of

[0101] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of another example cable harness sleeve;

[0102] FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B shows FIG. 12 the arrangement of the closure tabs on the cable harness sleeve shown in

[0103] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of another example cable harness sleeve;

[0104] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a cable harness sleeve according to an embodiment of the present application, the cable harness sleeve comprising a first sheet and a second sheet; and

[0105] FIG. 16 shows FIG. 15 the first sheet of the cable harness sleeve of DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0106] FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B shows a plan view and an elevational view of an aircraft 1 according to an embodiment of the present application. The aircraft 1 comprises two main wings 3 (only one wing is fully visible in FIG. 1B each wing 3 comprises a fixed wing 5 extending from a root 7 to a tip 9. At the tip 9 of the fixed wing 5, the wing 3 further comprises a movable wing tip device 11. In this embodiment, the wing tip device 11 comprises a planar wing tip extension. The wing tip device 11 is rotatably mounted on a hinged joint 13 having a hinge axis. Thus, the wing tip device 11 is rotatable about the hinged joint 13 relative to the fixed wing 5.

[0107] The aircraft 1 further comprises an actuator assembly (not shown) operable to rotate the wing tip device 5 about the hinged joint 13. With reference to FIG. 1B , the wing tip device 11 is rotatable about the hinged joint 13 between a flight configuration and a ground configuration. FIG. 1BThe wing tip device 11 is also shown partially moved between these two configurations.

[0108] In the flight configuration, the wing tip device 11 is an extension of the fixed wing 5. Thus, the upper and lower surfaces of the fixed wing 5 are continuous with the upper and lower surfaces of the wing tip device 11. The leading and trailing edges of the fixed wing 5 are also continuous with the corresponding leading and trailing edges of the wing tip device 11 (see FIG. 1A ). This arrangement is beneficial because it provides a relatively large wing span during flight, thereby providing an aerodynamically efficient aircraft.

[0109] The wing tip device 11 is able to rotate upwards from the flight configuration to a ground configuration in which the wing tip device 11 is rotated to a substantially upright position (shown in FIG. 1B ). The wing tip device 11 is able to be moved to this configuration whilst the aircraft 1 is on the ground. Once rotated to this position, the wingspan of the aircraft 1 is sufficient to meet airport compatibility gate restrictions. Thus, the aircraft 1 of the first embodiment can have a large wingspan during flight (exceeding gate restrictions), but still be able to comply with gate restrictions when on the ground.

[0110] Aspects of the application relate to the cabling harnesses 15a / 15b extending from the fixed wing 5 into the wing tip device 11. This will now be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B .

[0111] FIG. 2A is a view of the leading edge of the wing at the hinged joint 13, but with some wing structure removed (i.e. the wing skin around the leading edge) for clarity. Two cabling harnesses 15a and 15b are located inside the fixed wing, each extending from the fuselage to the tip 9 of the fixed wing 5. The routes of the cabling harnesses 15a / 15b are shown schematically using dashed lines, as the harnesses themselves are mostly obscured by surrounding structure, and in the view shown are aligned one behind the other. As is known in the art in respect of cabling harnesses themselves, the cabling harnesses 15a and 15b each contain a plurality of sheathed electrical cables (not shown individually in the figures). Each of the electrical cables performs a different function (e.g. supplying electrical power to different devices in the aircraft, or transmitting data signals to / from sensors and devices in the aircraft). The cables are collected together in assemblies to form the respective harnesses, which are then routed in a suitable manner through the wing. The two harnesses 15a, 15b extend substantially parallel to each other.

[0112] FIG. 2AThe aircraft is shown with the wing tip device 11 in the flight configuration. The cable harnesses 15a / 15b emerge from the fixed wing at the first end 17 and then pass through the hinge joint 13 (described in further detail below) via a bend between the two sleeve guides 19 and 21. The harnesses 15a / 15b enter the wing tip device 11 at the second end 23 and then continue into the wing tip device 11 where the cables are then connected to various devices and sensors.

[0113] FIG. 2B The aircraft is shown with the wing tip device 11 in the ground configuration. As can be seen from a comparison with FIG. 2A The first end 17 remains fixed relative to the fixed wing 5 and the second end 23 remains fixed relative to the wing tip device 11. Through the joint 13, the cable harnesses 15a / 15b flex into an upward bend but remain between the sleeve guides 19 and 21.

[0114] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B The leading edge of the wing is shown. However, another pair of harnesses and corresponding sleeves are also present at the trailing edge. These are shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4A / FIG. 4B The arrangement of the harnesses at both the leading edge and the trailing edge ensures redundancy in the event of failure of one of the arrangements. The arrangement at the leading edge is substantially the same as that described at the trailing edge (except for any differences discussed herein). For the sake of clarity, various aspects of the invention will be described below with reference to one of the sleeves, but these aspects equally apply to the other sleeve, unless otherwise stated.

[0115] In general, there are many challenges to placing cable harnesses through such a joint 13 between a fixed wing 5 and a moveable wing tip device 11. The arrangement in the aircraft 1 seeks to address these challenges. In this regard, the aircraft includes protective sleeves 25 at both the leading edge and the trailing edge which surround the respective cable harnesses 15a / 15b as they extend through the joint.

[0116] The sleeve 25 at the leading edge (see FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B) from a first end 17 at which the wire harness 15a / 15b emerges from the fixed wing 5 to a second end 23 at which the wire harness 15a / 15b enters the wing tip device 11. It has been found that the region between these two end locations is particularly exposed to potentially harsh environmental conditions (e.g. extreme temperatures, potentially corrosive substances such as grease, oil, de-icing fluid etc.). Furthermore, as the wing tip device moves between the flight configuration and the ground configuration, the sleeve 25 flexes to accommodate this movement and can therefore be susceptible to fatigue wear.

[0117] As described in more detail below, the sleeve 25 is removable from the wire harness 15a / 15b. Importantly, the sleeve 25 is also relatively short in length and extends only between the two ends across the joint. Referring now to FIG. 3 and an enlarged view of either end of the sleeve FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B , the first end 17 of the sleeve 25 is fixedly held in place by a first clamp 39. The first clamp 39 comprises a base portion 39a which is mounted on the fixed wing 5 and a clamping portion 39b which is arranged to fixedly hold the end of the sleeve in place. The clamping portion 39b is held in place by two threaded fasteners 51. The second end 23 of the sleeve 25 is fixedly held in place by a second clamp 43. This clamp 43 also comprises a base portion 43a but this is instead mounted on the wing tip device 11. The second clamp 43 also comprises a clamping portion 43b but this is not held together with threaded fasteners but instead by a snap fit and can be removed using a suitable tool. In other embodiments, each end can be held in place by a clamp of the same design at both ends. In the above embodiment, the clamping and base portions are formed from a plastics material.

[0118] To remove the sleeve, each clamp 39, 43 is released and the sleeve 25 is then pulled away from each wire harness through the slits in the manner described above.

[0119] It has been found that having a removable sleeve is particularly beneficial as it can allow the sleeve to be installed and / or removed, for example to be replaced or serviced, without the need to remove the wire harness. Furthermore, it has been found that it is particularly beneficial to ensure that the sleeve of this particular length (i.e. the length spanning the joint) can be removed as this is the length which is most likely to be exposed to potential damage or wear. Furthermore, this length tends to be easily accessible when the wing tip device is in the ground configuration.

[0120] A method of removing the sleeve 25 is schematically illustrated in FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D FIG. 5A ​The sleeve 25 is shown installed on both harnesses 15a, 15b and fixedly held in place by the clamps 39, 43. The sleeve can need to be replaced or serviced for a variety of reasons, in which case it can be beneficial to remove the sleeve 25 from the harnesses 15a / 15b. Although the movement of the wing tip device is not shown, the initial step in servicing the harnesses is to move the wing tip device to a ground configuration, such as by FIG. 5A to FIG. 5D moving the wing tip device to the ground configuration. This is shown by the relative position of the clamps. This makes it easier to access the sleeve and / or clamps compared to when the wing tip device is in the flight configuration.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 5B the next step in removing the sleeve is to unclamp the ends of the sleeve by separating the clamping portions 39b, 43b from their respective base portions 39a, 43a. Unclamping the ends of the sleeve allows the sleeve 25 to be removed from the harnesses. The method of removing the sleeve 25 will depend on the configuration of the sleeve 25. Examples of suitable sleeves according to the present application are described in more detail below. Removing the sleeve 25 results in the harnesses 15a, 15b being exposed and resting on the base portions 39a, 43a, as shown in FIG. 5C The original sleeve can then be serviced or replaced with a new sleeve. To fit a protective sleeve for replacement / servicing, the process is effectively reversed. With a new sleeve 25 installed on the harnesses 15a, 15b, the ends are then reclamped by rejoining the clamping portions 39b, 43b to the base portions 39a, 43a, as shown in FIG. 5D

[0122] Referring back to FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B the aircraft 1 (at both the leading and trailing edges) comprises an upper sleeve guide 19 and a lower sleeve guide 21. Both guides are mounted on the fixed wing 3 and are offset in the vertical direction from the line joining each end 17, 23 of the sleeve 25 (when the wing tip device is in the flight configuration). In this way, the sleeve 25 is fed between the two sleeve guides 19, 21 and the natural resilience of the sleeve causes the sleeve to be forced against both sleeve guides. This constrains the oscillatory motion and therefore minimises the risk of damage due to oscillation / movement of the sleeve. The sleeve guides 19, 21 also serve to constrain the movement of the sleeve 25 as it flexes during movement of the wing tip device 11 between the flight and ground configurations. As illustrated in FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B the upper sleeve guide 19 fixes the position about which the sleeve 25 bends upwards during movement to the ground configuration. Likewise, the lower sleeve guide 21 fixes the position about which the sleeve 25 bends downwards during movement to the flight configuration.

[0123] ​FIG. 6 A sleeve 125 according to a first embodiment of the application is shown in FIG. 1 1, which is suitable for use as the sleeve 25 described above. The sleeve 125 has a closed cross-section provided by a continuous outer wall 141 that encircles and defines an interior passage 143. The outer wall 141 includes a curved first side portion 145 and an opposite curved second side portion 147. An upper opposing portion 149 of the wall 145 connects the first side portion 145 with the second side portion 147 at an upper side of the sleeve, and a lower opposing portion 151 connects the first side portion 145 with the second side portion 147 at a lower side of the sleeve 125. In the presently described embodiment of the application, an inner height H1 of the first side portion 145 is greater than an inner height H2 of the second side portion 147, and thus, a radius of curvature of the first side portion 145 is greater than a radius of curvature of the second side portion 147.

[0124] A plurality of holes 153a are formed in the upper opposing portion 149, which are spaced apart along a longitudinal direction of the sleeve 125 on the upper opposing portion 149. A plurality of holes 153b are also formed in the lower opposing portion 151, which are positioned such that each hole 153b formed in the lower opposing portion 151 is aligned with a corresponding hole 153a formed in the upper opposing portion 151 (note that in FIG. 1 1, only one hole 153b can be seen in the lower opposing portion 151). FIG. 6

[0125] The sleeve 125 also includes two pairs of protruding members in the form of opposing ribs 157a / 157b, 159a / 159b that extend along the length of the sleeve and protrude from an inner surface 161 of the outer wall 141 into the passage 143 of the sleeve 125. Each pair of protruding members includes a first rib 157a, 159a that protrudes into the passage 143 from the upper opposing portion 149 toward the lower opposing portion 151, and a second rib 157b, 159b that protrudes into the passage 143 from the lower opposing portion 152 toward the upper opposing portion 149. The first pair of ribs 157a / 157b is positioned at a left end of the respective upper opposing portion 149 and lower opposing portion 151, at which the upper opposing portion 149 and the lower opposing portion 151 intersect the first side portion 145. The second pair of ribs 159a / 159b is positioned at a right end of the respective upper opposing portion 149 and lower opposing portion 151, at which the upper opposing portion 149 and the lower opposing portion 151 intersect the second side portion 147.

[0126] ​The process of installing the sleeve 125 will now be described. Because the sleeve 125 has a closed cross-section that cannot be opened, the sleeve 125 must be installed by inserting the wire bundles 15a / 15b into the end of the channel 143 and passing the wire bundles 15a / 15b through the channel 143 along the longitudinal direction of the sleeve. Thus, in order to install the sleeve 125, the wire bundles 15a / 15b must be electrically disconnected from at least one of the wing or wing tip. However, in other embodiments of the invention, the closed cross-section of the sleeve can be openable. For example, the upper or lower opposing portions can be formed of two or more overlapping portions that are openable to provide a gap in the outer wall of the sleeve so that the wire bundles 15a / 15b can be inserted into the channel through the gap in the outer wall of the sleeve.

[0127] In the presently described embodiment, the first side portion 145 of the sleeve 125 is provided with a height H1 that is greater than the height H2 of the second side portion 147 to accommodate the different sizes of the first and second wire bundles 15a, 15b. The first wire bundle 15a, which has a larger diameter than the second wire bundle 15a, is inserted into the portion of the channel 143 formed by the first side portion 145, while the second wire bundle 15b is inserted into the portion of the channel 143 defined by the second side portion 147.

[0128] With the wire bundles 15a / 15b in place within the channel 143, the sleeve 125 can then be secured to the wire bundles 15a / 15b by moving the upper and lower intermediate portions 149, 151 toward one another so that the respective first and second ribs 157a, 159a, 157b, 159b abut to configure the sleeve into a secured configuration, as shown in FIG. 7 . Then, as shown in FIG. 8 , the upper intermediate portion 149 is secured to the lower intermediate portion 151 by a plurality of fasteners 500, with each fastener being received within a hole 153a in the upper intermediate portion 149 and a corresponding aligned hole 153b in the lower intermediate portion 151 (note that in FIG. 8 , the fasteners 500 are shown in an unfastened state and the sleeve 125 is shown in an undeformed state).

[0129] In this case, the fasteners 500 used are two-part snap-fit fasteners 500 of the type shown in FIG. 9 . Each fastener includes a first half 501 and a second half 503. The first half 501 includes a head 505 and a male portion 507 protruding from the head 505. The second half 503 includes a head 509 and a female portion 511 configured to receive and snap-fit with the male portion 507 of the first half 501.

[0130] As shown in FIG. 7As can be seen, in the fixed configuration of the sleeve 125, the first side portion 145 forms the first channel 131 in which the first wire bundle 15a is received, and the second side portion 147 forms the second channel 133 in which the second wire bundle 15b is received. Each channel 131 / 133 has a circular outer profile, which minimizes the space required to house the wire bundles 15a / 15b within the wing, and maximizes the clearance with the surrounding structure.

[0131] Each channel 131, 133 is dimensioned so that it includes a small tolerance between the outer diameter of the wire bundle 15a / 15b and the wall 141 of the sleeve 125. This mitigates friction between the wire bundle 15a / 15b and the sleeve 125.

[0132] The sleeve 125 comprises a non-conductive flexible material, such as a fluorosilicone polymer. The fluorosilicone polymer can be FVMQ. The fluorosilicone polymer has a hardness of about 70 as measured on a Shore A durometer. This hardness can be particularly effective in the multiple bending and unbending processes undergone in handling a folding wing tip. In addition, the FVMQ material has been found to be particularly robust in coping with the harsh environmental conditions to which the tip of a wing can be exposed.

[0133] In the presently described embodiment, the thickness of the outer wall 141 of the sleeve 125 is about 3 mm, which is much higher than the thickness required to ensure arcing protection. It has been found that a thickness of at least 0.79 mm of FVMQ material is required to ensure arcing protection, and therefore embodiments of the present application can have a minimum sleeve thickness of at least this value.

[0134] As FIG. 7 As can be seen, the abutting pairs of ribs 157a / 157b, 159a / 159b each form a wall 161, 163, which partially defines and encloses the respective first channel 131 and second channel 133. The upper and lower opposing portions 149, 151, which are fixed together, form a band-like region 165 between the first channel 131 and the second channel 133.

[0135] In the presently described embodiment of the application, the first wire bundle 15a contains high voltage cables for transmitting a high voltage (270V) supply, while the second wire bundle 15b contains only low voltage cables arranged to transmit a low voltage (28V) supply and data signals. The presence of high voltage conductors presents some particular challenges. In particular, it is desirable to minimise the risk of arcing and to minimise the risk of situations in which arcing can occur. The sleeve 125 according to the presently described embodiment has some features to address these challenges. In particular, the walls 161, 163 formed by the abutting ribs 157a / 157b, 159a / 159b form a barrier between the first cable bundle 15a and the second cable bundle 15b. Furthermore, the strip-like regions 165 formed by the upper and lower opposing portions 149, 151 hold the first and second passages 131, 133, which are spaced apart from each other, in a fixed position. By using a single sleeve 125 in this way, the wire bundles 15a / 15b can be positioned significantly closer to each other than would be the case if the wire bundles 15a / 15b were held in separate, independent sleeves. This is particularly beneficial in the region of the wing tip, where space is at a premium.

[0136] In FIG. 10 and FIG. 11 A sleeve 225 according to a second embodiment of the application is shown in Figs. 2A-2D, which is also suitable for use as the sleeve 25 of the aircraft 1 described above. In this case, the sleeve 225 is formed from a single sheet 227 of FMVQ. In other embodiments, the sleeve 225 can be formed from another non-conductive flexible material or can be another non-conductive flexible material. The sheet 227 includes a first portion 245, an intermediate portion 249, and a second portion 247 arranged along a transverse direction of the sheet, with the intermediate portion 249 located between the first and second portions 245, 247. The first portion 247 has a width W in the transverse direction of the sheet 227 that is greater than a width of the second portion 247. A first plurality of holes 253a is spaced apart along a longitudinal direction of the sheet 227 at an end of the first portion 245 of the sheet, the longitudinal direction of the sheet being oriented perpendicular to the transverse direction of the sheet 227. A second plurality of holes 253b is spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the sheet 227 at an end of the second portion 247 of the sheet 227, and a third plurality of holes 253c is spaced apart along the longitudinal direction of the sheet 227 in the intermediate portion 249. The holes 253c in the intermediate portion 249 are located in a central portion of the intermediate portion along the transverse direction of the sheet 227.

[0137] The thickness T of the intermediate portion is approximately 2 mm, which is approximately twice the thickness of the first and second portions, each of which is approximately 1 mm thick. In other embodiments of the invention, the thicknesses of the various portions of the sheet can, of course, differ. It will be understood that in some embodiments, the sheet can, of course, have a substantially constant thickness, such that the thicknesses of the first and second portions are equal to each other and equal to the thickness of the intermediate portion. In these cases, the thickness of the sheet can be determined by the desired thickness of the intermediate portion, which forms a barrier between the first and second cable harnesses in use. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness of the intermediate portion may need to be at least 2 mm, and therefore in these embodiments, the sheet can have a substantially constant thickness of 2 mm.

[0138] Sheet 227 can be constructed in the following manner FIG. 11 The fixed configuration shown is as follows: A first portion 245 of the sheet is folded around an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction until the end 246 of the first portion 245 rests against the middle portion 249 on a first side, and the first plurality of holes 253a and the third plurality of holes 253c are aligned, such that the first portion 245 of the sheet defines a first channel 231. A second portion 247 of the sheet 227 is folded around an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction until the end 248 of the second portion 248 rests against the middle portion 249 on a second side opposite to the middle portion, and the second plurality of holes 253b are also aligned with the third plurality of holes 253c, such that the second portion 247 of the sheet 227 defines a second channel 233. In the fixed configuration of the sleeve 225, the end 246 of the first portion 245 of the sheet 227 forms an opposing portion that is fixed to the opposing portion formed by the middle portion 249. Similarly, the end 248 of the second portion 247 of the sheet 227 forms an opposing portion that is fixed to the opposing portion formed by the intermediate portion 249.

[0139] Secure sleeve 225 with fasteners. FIG. 10 In the configuration shown, the fasteners can be those described above. FIG. 9 Fastener 500 of the described type or another type of fastener. A first plurality of holes 253a, a second plurality of holes 253b and a third plurality of holes 253c are aligned such that a single fastener can pass through a first portion 245, an intermediate portion 249 and a second intermediate portion 247 to fasten the portions 245, 247, 249 together.

[0140] To install sleeve 225, the first portion 245 is positioned along the first direction (in... FIG. 10 and FIG. 11The first portion 245 (counterclockwise in the reference frame) is wound around the first wire harness 15a, and the second portion 247 is also wound around the second wire harness 15b in the first direction. The first portion 245, the intermediate portion 249, and the third portion 247 are then secured together with fasteners. The longer width W of the first portion 245 in the lateral direction provides a larger diameter for the first channel 231, which is suitable for accommodating the first wire harness 15a, whose diameter is larger than that of the second wire harness 15b. In an embodiment, the corresponding widths of the first and second portions can be determined by the diameter of the wire harness carried by the sleeve configuration.

[0141] In some embodiments, sheet 227 can be preformed as FIG. 11 The configuration shown includes a first portion 245 and a second portion 247 forming a first channel 231 and a second channel 233. In these embodiments, the sleeve 225 can be installed by inserting a first wire harness 15a and a second wire harness 15b via corresponding slits 263, 265 into their respective first channels 231 and second channels 233. The first slit 263 is formed between the end 246 and the middle portion 249 of the first portion 245, and the second slit 265 is formed between the end 248 and the middle portion 249 of the second portion 247. The advantage of using a sleeve made of FMVQ in this case is that it allows the sleeve 225 to elastically deform to open the first slit 263 and the second slit 265, making it easy to install and remove the sleeve 225.

[0142] The advantage of the sleeve 225 in the second embodiment is that the sleeve 225 can be installed without disconnecting the electrical connection of the wire harness 15a / 15b, because the sleeve 225 can be secured by simply winding the sleeve around the wire harness 15a / 15b, or when the sheet 227 is pre-formed. FIG. 11 In the configuration shown, the sleeve 225 can be secured by inserting the cable harness 15a / 15b through the slits 263, 265 formed along the longitudinal direction of the sleeve.

[0143] like FIG. 11 As can be seen, in the fixed configuration of sleeve 225, the first channel 231 containing wire harness 15a is positioned on the first side of the middle portion 249 (in FIG. 11 In the configuration shown, the lower side portion), and the second channel 233 is positioned on the opposite second side portion of the middle portion 249 (in FIG. 11In use, the intermediate portion 249 forms a barrier between the first and second cable bundles 15a, 15b, mitigating the risk of arcing. Furthermore, the intermediate portion 249 also forms part of a band-like region that holds the first and second passages 231, 233 in fixed positions, spaced apart from one another. By using a single sleeve 225 in this way, the bundles 15a / 15b can be positioned significantly closer to one another than would be the case if the bundles 15a / 15b were held in separate, independent sleeves. This is particularly beneficial in the region of the wing tip, where space is at a premium.

[0144] In other embodiments of the application, the sleeve 225 can be configured such that the first and second portions of the sheet are folded in opposite directions such that the respective ends of the first and second portions both abut the same side of the intermediate portion (or the sheet can be pre-formed in this configuration). Alternatively or additionally, in embodiments of the application, the respective ends of the first and second portions can be the only ones that are secured to the intermediate portion, rather than the respective ends of the first and second portions being secured to one another and to the intermediate portion.

[0145] FIG. 12 An example of a further sleeve 325 suitable for use as the sleeve 25 described above is shown. The sleeve 325 comprises a first passage 331 in which the first bundle 15a is received, and a second passage 333 in which the second bundle 15b is received. A first slit 327 extends along a side of the sleeve 325 in the longitudinal direction of the sleeve 325, and along the entire length of the first passage 331. A corresponding second slit 329 is located on the opposite side of the sleeve 325, and extends in the longitudinal direction of the sleeve 325 along the entire length of the second passage 333.

[0146] The sleeve 325 is formed from FMVQ. Each bundle 15a / 15b can be installed or removed from its respective passage 331, 333 by peeling back the slits 335, 337 and inserting the bundle 15a / 15b, or by simply pulling the sleeve away from the bundle.

[0147] To configure the sleeve 325 into a fixed configuration in which the bundles 15a / 15b are secured within the sleeve 325, the sleeve 325 comprises a pair of closure tabs 335 that extend either side of each slit 327, 329. The closure tabs 335 are held together by a series of releasable fasteners 337, as shown in FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B FIG. 13A The pair of closure tabs 335 are shown in the open configuration, and FIG. 13B ​A pair of closed protrusions 335 in a closed configuration are shown. One of the closed protrusions 335 in each pair has a plurality of integrally molded fasteners 337 spaced apart along the length of the closed protrusion in the longitudinal direction of the sleeve. The fasteners 337 include mushroom-shaped heads that can be inserted into corresponding holes 339 on the opposing closed protrusions. Once inserted through the opening, as... FIG. 13B As shown, the mushroom-shaped head prevents the fastener 337 from being pulled back through the hole 339, thereby firmly holding the closed protrusion 335 together. However, due to the elastic deformability of the sleeve material, the mushroom-shaped head can be manually deformed, allowing it to be pulled through its corresponding hole. Therefore, each fastener 337 can be pulled out of the opening 339 when necessary, for example, to open the slit. This type of fastener 337 is naturally suitable for use with other types of sleeves, such as the sleeves 125 and 224 described above.

[0148] FIG. 14 Another example of a sleeve 425 suitable for use as the sleeve 25 described above is shown. Sleeve 425 is compared with reference to... FIG. 12 as well as FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B The sleeve 325 is similarly described and includes a first channel 431 and a second channel 433, in which a first wire harness 15a is received and a second wire harness 15b is received. A first slit 427 extends along the base of the first channel 431 and extends the entire length of the sleeve 425. A second slit 429 extends along the base of the second channel 433 and also extends the entire length of the sleeve 25.

[0149] Unlike sleeve 325, slits 427 and 429 are located on the lower part of the sleeve (rather than on the lateral side of the sleeve). This arrangement has been found to be advantageous because it ensures that any moisture that may accumulate inside the sleeve can be drained through the slits.

[0150] FIG. 15 A sleeve 525 according to another embodiment of the invention is shown. The sleeve 525 is suitable for use as the sleeve 25 of the aforementioned aircraft 1, wherein, in addition to the first cable harness 15a and the second cable harness 15b, the aircraft 1 also includes a third cable harness 15c extending between the fixed wing and the wingtip assembly. In this case, the sleeve 525 includes a first sheet 527 and a second sheet 528, the corresponding first sheet 527 and second sheet 528 comprising a non-conductive flexible material, such as FMVQ.

[0151] Reference only shows the first sheet 527 FIG. 16The first sheet 527 includes a first portion 545, an intermediate portion 549, and a second portion 547 arranged along the transverse direction of the sheet, wherein the intermediate portion 549 is positioned between the first portion 545 and the second portion 547. A first plurality of holes (not visible in the figure) are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction at the ends 546 of the first portion 545. A second plurality of holes (not visible in the figure) are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction at the ends 548 of the second portion 547. A third plurality of holes 553c are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction on the first transverse side of the intermediate portion 549, and a fourth plurality of holes 553 are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction on the opposite second transverse side of the intermediate portion 549.

[0152] When the first sheet 527 and the second sheet 528 are in FIG. 15 When the second sheet 528 is in its fixed configuration as shown, its width is approximately equal to the width of the middle portion 549 of the first sheet 527. The second sheet 528 is provided with a first plurality of holes 550a and a second plurality of holes 550b. The first plurality of holes 550a are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction on a first transverse side of the second sheet 528, and the second plurality of holes 550b are spaced apart along the longitudinal direction on the opposite second transverse side of the second sheet 528.

[0153] The first sheet 527 can be constructed in the following manner FIG. 16 The fixed configuration shown is as follows: A first portion 545 of the sheet is folded around a first cable harness 15a to a position where the end 546 of the first portion 545 rests against the middle portion 549 on a first lateral side and the first plurality of holes 553c are aligned, such that the first portion 545 of the sheet defines a first channel 531 in which the first cable harness 15a is received. Similarly, a second portion 547 of the first sheet 527 is folded around a second cable harness 15b to a position where the end 548 of the second portion 547 rests against the opposite second lateral side of the middle portion 549 and the second plurality of holes 553d are aligned, such that the second portion 547 of the sheet 527 defines a second channel 533 in which the second cable harness 15b is received.

[0154] The portion of the middle section located between the corresponding third group of holes 553c and the fourth group of holes 553d partially wraps around the third cable harness 15c on the first side of the third cable harness 15c. A second sheet 528 is placed on the third cable harness 15c on the opposite second side, such that the second sheet 528 and the middle portion 549 of the first sheet 527 together define a third channel 534 in which the third cable harness 15c is received. (As shown from...) FIG. 15 and FIG. 16As can be seen in the comparison of FIGS. 5A and 5B, the first set of holes 550a of the second sheet 528 align with the first and third sets of holes 553a, 553c of the first sheet 527 on a first side of the third passageway 534. Similarly, the second set of holes 550b of the second sheet 528 align with the second and fourth sets of holes 553b, 553d of the first sheet 527 on an opposite second side of the third passageway 534.

[0155] Fasteners, such as the fasteners 500 described above, can be seated in the respective holes of the respective first and second sheets 527, 528 to secure the respective first and second sheets 527, 528 together in the configuration shown. FIG. 15 In the secured configuration of the presently described embodiment, the end 546 of the first portion 545 and the first side of the intermediate portion 549 of the first sheet 527 together with the first side of the second sheet 528 form a first band region 560a that separates the first passageway 531 from the third passageway 534 (and from the second passageway 533 positioned on the opposite side of the third passageway 534). Similarly, the end 548 of the second portion 547 and the second side of the intermediate portion 549 of the first sheet 527 together with the second side of the second sheet 528 form a second band region 560b that separates the second passageway 533 from the third passageway 534 (and from the first passageway 531 positioned on the opposite side of the third passageway 534).

[0156] While the application has been described and illustrated with reference to particular embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the application is measured to many different variations not specifically illustrated herein. For example, as FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 As can be seen in FIG. 1, the diameters of the first and second cable bundles 15a, 15b are substantially equal, while the diameter of the third cable bundle 15c positioned between the first and second cable bundles 15a, 15b is substantially larger. In other embodiments of the application, the diameters of the respective first, second, and third cable bundles 15a, 15b, 15c can all be substantially equal, or the respective cable bundles 15a, 15b, 15c can all have different diameters. In the case where the sleeve is provided by one or more sheets, it will be appreciated that sleeves configured to accommodate cable bundles having different diameters can be provided by tailoring the respective width dimensions of the respective sheets, with larger diameter cable bundles requiring larger width sheets.

[0157] Where in the foregoing description reference has been made to integers or components having known, obvious or foreseeable equivalents, such equivalents are incorporated herein as if individually set forth. Any reference in this specification to claims or claim categories should be construed as references to all claims and categories of claims wherever and whenever presented in the specification or drawings. The reader will also understand that the claims or elements of the application described as preferred, advantageous, modes and the like are optional and do not limit the scope of the independent claims. Furthermore, it should be understood that although elements or features of the application can be described herein as being a preferred arrangement or mode, only the essential or claimed ones are so limited and other arrangements can be utilized and are contemplated herein.

Claims

1. An aircraft wing comprising a fixed wing and a wingtip assembly movably mounted at a junction at the end of the fixed wing, the wingtip assembly being movable about the junction between (i) a flight configuration for use during flight and (ii) a ground configuration for use during ground-based operation, in which the wingtip assembly is movable relative to the fixed wing such that the wingspan of the wing is reduced. in, The wing includes a first cable harness and a second cable harness extending between the fixed wing and the wingtip assembly, and each of the first and second cable harnesses includes a plurality of conductors arranged to transmit power and / or data to the wingtip assembly. The wing also includes a protective sleeve, and the first cable harness and the second cable harness are received within the protective sleeve, the protective sleeve being in a fixed configuration, wherein at least two opposing portions of the protective sleeve are fixed together between the first cable harness and the second cable harness to provide for the sleeve: The first channel, in which the first cable harness is received. The second channel, in which the second cable harness is received, and A strip-shaped region formed by the at least two opposing portions, the strip-shaped region extending between the first channel and the second channel, such that the first cable harness and the second cable harness remain separated through the strip-shaped region.

2. The aircraft wing according to claim 1, wherein, The sleeve comprises a fluorosilicone polymer.

3. The aircraft wing according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein, The strip-shaped area includes a barrier positioned between the first cable harness and the second cable harness.

4. The aircraft wing according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In the fixed configuration of the protective sleeve, the at least two opposing portions are secured together by a plurality of fasteners passing through the at least two opposing portions, the fasteners being spaced apart along the length of the protective sleeve.

5. The aircraft wing according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The sleeve includes an outer wall, and the portion of the outer wall surrounding the corresponding cable harness has a thickness of at least 2 millimeters.

6. The aircraft wing according to any of the preceding claims, wherein, The sleeve includes an outer wall and a first protruding member that protrudes from the inner surface of the outer wall at a first opposing portion, and in the fixed configuration of the protective sleeve, the first protruding member abuts against a second opposing portion of the protective sleeve such that the first protruding member at least partially forms a barrier between the first cable harness and the second cable harness.

7. The aircraft wing according to claim 6, wherein, The protective sleeve includes a second protruding member that protrudes from the inner surface of the protective sleeve on the second opposing portion, and in the fixed configuration of the protective sleeve, the second protruding member abuts against the first opposing portion of the protective sleeve such that the second protruding member at least partially forms the barrier between the first cable harness and the second cable harness.

8. The aircraft wing according to claim 7, wherein, The first protruding member is positioned opposite the second protruding member such that, in the fixed configuration of the sleeve, the first protruding member and the second protruding member abut against each other, thereby forming a wall between the first cable harness and the second cable harness.

9. The aircraft wing according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The protective sleeve includes a sheet; in the fixed configuration of the protective sleeve, the sheet is wound around at least one of the first cable harness or the second cable harness, and a first opposing portion of the sheet is fixed to a second opposing portion of the sheet to form at least one of the first channel or the second channel.

10. The aircraft wing according to claim 9, wherein, The sheet includes a first portion, a second portion, and an intermediate portion between the first portion and the second portion, and in the fixed configuration of the protective sleeve, the first portion of the sheet is wound around the first cable harness; the end of the first portion forms an opposing portion: the opposing portion is fixed to the opposing portion formed by the intermediate portion to provide the first channel; The second portion of the sheet is wound around the second cable harness; the ends of the second portion form opposing portions: these opposing portions are fixed to the opposing portions formed by the intermediate portion to form the second channel; and The middle portion forms the strip region with at least one of the second portion or the first portion.

11. The aircraft wing according to claim 10, wherein, The first portion of the sheet is wound around the first wire harness in a first direction, and the second portion of the sheet is wound around the second wire harness in the first direction, such that the middle portion forms a barrier between the first wire harness and the second wire harness.

12. The aircraft wing according to claim 10 or 11, wherein, The sheet has a thickness, wherein the thickness of the first portion of the sheet is approximately equal to the thickness of the second portion of the sheet, and wherein the thickness of the middle portion of the sheet is greater than the thickness of either the first or the second portion.

13. The aircraft wing according to any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein, In the fixed configuration of the protective sleeve, the end of the first portion of the sheet is fixed to the end of the second portion of the sheet.

14. The aircraft wing according to claim 10, wherein, The wing includes a third cable harness extending between the fixed wing and the wingtip assembly, the third cable harness comprising a plurality of conductors arranged to transmit power and / or data to the wingtip assembly; and A portion of the middle section of the sheet at least partially defines a third channel in which the third cable harness is received.

15. The aircraft wing according to claim 14, wherein, The sleeve includes another sheet, and the other sheet is fixed to the middle portion of the first sheet to provide the third channel between the first sheet and the other sheet.

16. An aircraft comprising an aircraft wing according to any of the preceding claims.

17. A cable harness sleeve configured for use on a folding wing, wherein, The sleeve has an outer wall surrounding and defining an internal channel, a first opposing portion located on a first side of the outer wall, a second opposing portion located on a second opposing side of the outer wall, and a first protruding member projecting from the inner surface of the outer wall on the first opposing portion. The protective sleeve can be configured in a fixed configuration in which the first opposing portion moves toward the second opposing portion to move the first protruding member to abut against the second opposing portion, thereby providing the sleeve with: The first channel is configured to receive the first cable harness. The second channel, configured to receive the second cable harness, and A strip-shaped region formed by the first opposing portion and the second opposing portion, the strip-shaped region extending between the first channel and the second channel to fix the position of the first channel relative to the second channel.

18. The cable harness sleeve according to claim 15, wherein, The protective sleeve includes a second protruding member that protrudes from the inner surface of the protective sleeve on the second opposing portion, and in the fixed configuration of the protective sleeve, the second protruding member abuts against the first opposing portion of the protective sleeve.

19. The cable harness sleeve according to claim 15 or claim 16, wherein, The outer wall of the protective sleeve has a first side portion and an opposing second side portion, the first opposing portion connecting the first side portion to the second side portion on the upper side of the sleeve, and the second opposing portion connecting the first side portion to the second side portion on the lower side of the sleeve, and the internal height of the first side portion is greater than the internal height of the second side portion, such that when the sleeve is in the fixed configuration, the first channel has a larger internal dimension than the second channel.

20. The cable harness sleeve according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein, A first plurality of holes are formed in the first opposing portion, and the first plurality of holes are spaced apart along the first opposing portion; A second plurality of holes are formed in the second opposing portion, the second plurality of holes being spaced apart along the second opposing portion; and the first plurality of holes are arranged relative to the second plurality of holes such that in the fixed configuration of the cable harness, the first plurality of holes are aligned with the second plurality of holes.

21. A cable harness sleeve configured for use on a folding wing, wherein, The cable harness sleeve includes a sheet comprising a first portion, a middle portion, and a second portion arranged along the transverse direction of the sheet. The middle portion is positioned between the first portion and the second portion. A first plurality of fixing portions are spaced apart at the ends of the first portion of the sheet along the longitudinal direction of the sheet. A second plurality of fixing portions are spaced apart at the middle portion of the sheet along the longitudinal direction of the sheet. A third plurality of fixing portions are spaced apart at the ends of the second portion of the sheet along the longitudinal direction of the sheet. The sheet can be configured into a fixed configuration, wherein: The first portion of the sheet is folded around an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction to a position where the first plurality of fixed portions are aligned with the second plurality of fixed portions, such that the first portion of the sheet at least partially defines a first channel; The second portion of the sheet is folded about an axis parallel to the longitudinal direction to a position where the third plurality of fixing portions align with the second plurality of fixing portions, such that the second portion of the sheet at least partially defines a second channel; and The middle portion is positioned between the first channel and the second channel to separate the first channel from the second channel.

22. The cable harness sleeve according to claim 19, wherein, The sheet has a thickness, wherein the thickness of the first portion of the sheet is approximately equal to the thickness of the second portion of the sheet, and wherein the thickness of the middle portion of the sheet is greater than the thickness of either the first or the second portion.

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