Wing for aircraft, leading edge high lift assembly and aircraft

Abstract

Disclosed are a wing for an aircraft, a leading edge high lift assembly and an aircraft, the wing comprising a main wing and a leading edge high lift assembly, the leading edge high lift assembly comprising a slat and a connecting assembly movably connecting the slat to the main wing, and a connecting assembly for connecting the slat to the main wing such that the slat is movable between a retracted position, a first extended position, and a second extended position, where the connecting assembly comprises an elongate slat track, a first end and / or a middle portion of which is mounted to the slat, the slat track being mounted to the main wing by means of a roller support. The aim of providing a wing with a beneficial ratio of aerodynamic performance to noise resulting from the extension of the slat is achieved, in which the slat track and the roller support are configured such that, in a retracted position and a first extended position, the slat rests against the main wing and, in a second extended position, the slat rests against the main wing. A gap is formed between the trailing edge of the slat and the leading edge of the main wing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to wings for aircraft. Other aspects of the invention relate to leading-edge high-lift assemblies for such wings and aircraft including such wings and / or including such leading-edge high-lift assemblies. Background Technology

[0002] The described wing for an aircraft includes a main wing and a leading-edge high-lift assembly. The leading-edge high-lift assembly includes slats and a connecting assembly that movably connects the slats to the main wing, allowing the slats to move relative to the main wing between several extended positions, specifically a first extended position and a second extended position. The first extended position preferably corresponds to a partially extended position taken during takeoff of the corresponding aircraft, while the second extended position preferably corresponds to a fully extended position taken during approach and landing of the corresponding aircraft.

[0003] The connecting assembly includes an elongated slat track extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, and having a middle portion located between the first and second ends. The slat track may be curved or straight along the longitudinal axis. At least one or both of the first end and the middle portion of the slat track are attached to the slat. The first end preferably corresponds to the front end of the connecting assembly, for example, an end positioned in the expected direction of forward movement of the wing during flight.

[0004] The first end of the slat track can preferably be mounted to the slat by any suitable means, such as by a spherical support, preferably in a manner fixed relative to the chord plane. As will be described, the slat track can preferably be mounted to the main wing by a roller support, such that the slat track and the slat are movable relative to the main wing. The slat track can be, for example, C-shaped, such that its surface faces the circumferential surface of the roller support, wherein the distance between the upper and lower surfaces of the slat track is greater than the diameter of the roller support, such that the roller support can engage only one of the upper or lower surfaces of the slat track at any given time. That is, the distance between the upper and lower surfaces of the slat track is chosen such that a gap is provided between the roller support and the upper or lower surface of the slat track, so that the roller support cannot simultaneously engage with and wed into both the upper and lower surfaces of the slat track.

[0005] The slat track is mounted to the main wing via roller supports, allowing the track to move along its longitudinal axis, particularly along a predetermined path, such as between the retracted position when the slat is in the retracted position, the first deployed position when the slat is in the first extended position, and the second deployed position when the slat is in the second extended position. Loads between the main wing and the slat track (e.g., almost all loads, or possibly the majority or main loads) can be absorbed by the roller supports.

[0006] The roller support device includes multiple support units mounted to the main wing and having support surfaces that engage with engagement surfaces disposed on the slat track. The multiple support units include at least first end roller units and intermediate roller units, wherein the multiple support units are positioned such that the intermediate roller units are positioned relative to the longitudinal axis of the track between the first end roller units and a second end of the slat track, particularly when the slat is in the retracted position. The first end roller units and / or intermediate roller units can be mounted to the main wing in any suitable manner, such as by fixing or fastening to the main wing, for example, by bolting to the main wing.

[0007] Similar wings are known in the art. Some known wings employ sealed slats whose trailing edge contacts the leading edge of the main wing at all points, thus eliminating any gap between the trailing edge of the slat and the leading edge of the main wing. This avoids gaps, reducing aerodynamic drag and noise. Other wings have slats whose trailing edge is spaced apart from the leading edge of the main wing at all points of extension. Such gaps guide fresh airflow from under the wing to the upper part of the wing, thereby suppressing airflow separation and thus increasing lift. Summary of the Invention

[0008] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a wing whose aerodynamic performance is advantageous in ratio to the noise generated by the extension of the slats.

[0009] This objective is achieved by configuring the slat track and roller support such that, in the retracted position and the first extended position, the slat rests against the main wing, specifically, the trailing edge of the slat rests against the leading edge of the main wing, preventing fluid from passing between the slat and the main wing. In the second extended position, a gap is formed between the trailing edge of the slat and the leading edge of the main wing to allow fluid to pass through. In this way, the benefits of a sealed slat and the benefits of a gapped slat configuration are combined. In particular, for takeoff during aircraft acceleration, lower drag and lower noise are desirable, thus the closed gap in the first extended position is advantageous. Conversely, for approach and landing, when the aircraft requires high lift to reach minimum speed, the gap in the fully extended slat position is advantageous. In this way, an ideal aerodynamic performance is achieved relative to the noise generated by the extended slat.

[0010] According to a preferred embodiment, the plurality of support units further includes second end support units, wherein the plurality of support units are positioned such that the intermediate roller unit is positioned relative to the longitudinal axis of the track between the first end roller unit and the second end support unit. The second end support unit can be mounted to the main wing in any suitable manner, for example, it can be fixed or fastened to the main wing, such as it can be bolted to the main wing. The second end support unit provides additional support for receiving loads, particularly in the retracted position of the slats.

[0011] In particular, preferably, the slat track and roller support are configured such that: in the retracted position, the load (especially the main load) is transferred (e.g., specifically transferred) between the slat track and the main wing (preferably between the slat track and the roller support) via the first end roller unit and the second end support unit; and in the first and second extended positions, the load (especially the main load) is transferred between the slat track and the main wing (preferably between the slat track and the roller support) via the first end roller unit and the intermediate roller unit. This can be achieved by the slat track and roller support, which are configured such that: in the retracted position, there is (only) load-bearing contact between the slat track and the first end roller unit and between the slat track and the second end support unit; and in the extended position, there is (only) load-bearing contact between the slat track and the first end roller unit and between the slat track and the intermediate roller unit.

[0012] In addition to the first end roller unit, the presence of both the intermediate roller unit and the second end support unit allows the slat track to be fully supported (by the first end roller unit and the intermediate roller unit) without the need for additional guide rails. Simultaneously, the track length can be reduced (due to the shorter distance between the first end roller unit and the intermediate roller unit), while in the retracted position, especially during cruise flight, the load can be reduced (due to the longer distance between the first end roller unit and the second end roller unit).

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, the intermediate roller unit can be configured to disengage from the engagement surface when the slat is in the retracted position, resulting in a gap between the intermediate roller unit and the engagement surface. The first end roller unit and the second end support unit are configured to engage with the engagement surface when the slat is in the retracted position. The second end support unit can be configured to disengage from the engagement surface when the slat moves to a first extended position or a second extended position, and the intermediate roller unit and the first end roller unit are configured to engage with the engagement surface when the slat moves to the first extended position or the second extended position. Allowing the first end roller unit and the second end support unit to engage with the engagement surface when the slat is in the retracted position can reduce the contact force by increasing the length of the lever arm between the support devices.

[0014] A slat track (e.g., an engagement surface) can be configured to engage simultaneously with a first end roller unit and an intermediate roller unit or a second end support unit. Therefore, a slat track can only (e.g., on one side of the slat track) engage with two (e.g., exactly two) roller units and / or support units simultaneously. As will be described in further detail in the following paragraphs, when the connecting assembly includes a second set of engagement surfaces (e.g., a mirrored set of engagement surfaces), the slat track can engage with four (e.g., exactly four) roller units and / or support units simultaneously, which may correspond to two roller units and / or support units for each set of engagement surfaces. Limiting the number of roller units and / or support units engaging with the slat track reduces the risk of the slat track being over-constrained.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, the slat track further includes a recessed portion that, in the retracted position, aligns with the intermediate roller unit, thereby eliminating or reducing the contact force between the intermediate roller unit and the mating surface of the slat track. This prevents the roller support from being over-constrained, thus avoiding additional forces acting between the roller support and the slat track. Furthermore, the absence of an additional guide rail, along with the configuration of the first and second roller / support units, allows for a more compact arrangement, providing easier integration of a drive mechanism into the connecting assembly, such as a rack and pinion mechanism or a drive strut combined with a rotary actuator. In this case, all or most of the load (e.g., the main load or primary load) between the wing and the slat track can be absorbed by the first end roller unit and the second end support unit.

[0016] Specifically, preferably, the recessed portion defines a discontinuity in the mating surface to divide the mating surface into a first mating surface extending in a first direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the track and a second mating surface extending in a second direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the track, wherein a first end roller unit is configured to engage with the first mating surface, and an intermediate roller unit and a second end support unit are configured to engage with the second mating surface. By providing a set of separate mating surfaces, the force acting on the slat track can be distributed more evenly along the elongated track.

[0017] Preferably, the recessed portion includes a gradual transition in the form of a ramp to the mating surface. Therefore, the contact force can gradually decrease as the roller unit and / or support unit travels along the ramp, and can be completely eliminated, for example, if the roller unit and / or support unit disengages from the mating surface.

[0018] The recessed portion can be defined by reducing the thickness of the slat track, for example, a portion of the slat track. The slat track may include a first flange and a second flange connected by a web to form a C-shape. The recessed portion can be defined by reducing the thickness of one or both of the first flange and the second flange. When both flanges include a thickness reduction portion, the thickness reduction portion can be longitudinally aligned along the longitudinal axis of the track.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, the second end support unit may be a roller unit or may include roller units. Additionally or alternatively, the second end support unit may include a contact pad device and may include at least one contact pad surface, the at least one contact pad surface including a raised surface, thereby increasing the contact area between the second end support unit and the engagement surface. Additionally or alternatively, the second end support unit may include a tapered or truncated tapered support member, which, when engaged with the engagement surface, may include a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the track. The second support unit may include a protrusion mounted to the main wing, and the slat track may include a recess having a profile configured to receive and mate with the second support unit. Therefore, the second end support unit may be shaped to provide guidance for the engagement between the slat track and the second end support unit. This means that the second end support unit may, but does not necessarily, include roller units, as they are primarily used to receive lateral forces in the retracted position of the slat, i.e., preferably in the end position, rather than more for guiding the slat track along its travel path to the extended position.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the slat track includes a first inner directional engagement surface and a second inner directional engagement surface, and / or a first outer directional engagement surface and a second outer directional engagement surface. The first inner directional engagement surface may face the second inner directional engagement surface, and the first outer directional engagement surface may face away from the second outer directional engagement surface. Each of the first end roller unit, the intermediate roller unit, and the second end support unit may be configured to engage with at least one of the first inner directional engagement surface and the second inner directional engagement surface, as well as the first outer directional engagement surface and the second outer directional engagement surface. In this way, various efficient arrangements of the roller support device are possible.

[0021] In particular, preferably, the slat track has a cross-section transverse to the longitudinal axis of the track, such as a C-shaped, double C-shaped, I-shaped, Ώ-shaped, T-shaped, or double T-shaped cross-section, comprising an upper flange portion, a lower flange portion, and a web portion connecting the upper and lower flange portions, such that a recess is formed between the upper flange portion, the lower flange portion, and the web portion. Preferably, a first end roller unit, an intermediate roller unit, and / or a second end support unit are arranged within this recess and engage with a first inner directional engagement surface and a second inner directional engagement surface at the inner surfaces of the upper and lower flanges. In this way, a very compact and efficient roller support device is provided.

[0022] Alternatively, preferably, the plurality of support units may include a pair of first end roller units, one of which may be configured to engage with a first outer directional engagement surface, and the other of which may be configured to engage with a second outer directional engagement surface, and the intermediate roller unit and the second end support unit may be configured to engage with at least one of a first inner directional engagement surface and a second inner directional engagement surface. In this way, an alternative, efficient roller support device is provided.

[0023] Alternatively, preferably, the plurality of support units may include a pair of first end roller units, a pair of intermediate roller units, and a pair of second end support units. One of the first end roller units, one of the intermediate roller units, and one of the second end support units can be configured to engage with a first external directional engagement surface, and another of the first end roller units, another of the intermediate roller units, and another of the second end support units can be configured to engage with a second external directional engagement surface. Having one or more pairs of roller units and / or support units allows the roller units / support units to withstand greater loads and can therefore be useful in situations where the known load will be particularly high. In this way, an alternative, efficient roller support device is provided.

[0024] Preferably, the connecting assembly includes a slat track having one or more mating surfaces of a first group and corresponding first end roller units, intermediate roller units, and second end support units, and also has one or more mating surfaces of a second group and corresponding first end roller units, intermediate roller units, and second end support units. The second group may be a mirror image of the first group. Both the first group of roller units / support units and the second group of roller units / support units can be connected to the main wing.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, when viewed along the longitudinal axis of the track, the mating surface comprises multiple surface segments with different radii of curvature. Preferably, the different radii of curvature of each surface segment are formed such that: in the retracted position and the first extended position, the slat rests against the main wing, while in the second extended position, a gap is formed between the trailing edge of the slat and the leading edge of the main wing. It should be noted that the radius of curvature at the inner flange may be different from the radius of curvature at the outer flange, such that when the inner oriented mating surfaces face each other, the radius of curvature refers to the radius of curvature at the centerline between the mating surfaces, i.e., the centerline of the recess.

[0026] Specifically, preferably, when viewed along the longitudinal axis of the track, the mating surface comprises four surface segments having four separate, preferably different, radii of curvature. Specifically, the first surface segment having a first radius of curvature relates to the travel path of the first end roller unit between the retracted position, the first extended position, and the second extended position. The second surface segment having a second radius of curvature relates to a recessed portion that, in the retracted position, aligns with the intermediate roller unit, thereby eliminating or reducing the contact force between the intermediate roller unit and the mating surface of the slat track. The third surface segment having a third radius of curvature relates to the travel path of the intermediate roller unit between the retracted position, the first extended position, and the second extended position. The fourth surface segment having a fourth radius of curvature relates to the segment used for overtravel and engagement with the second end support unit in the retracted position. With the four separate radii of curvature of the four surface segments, it is easily and effectively achieved that, in the retracted position and the first extended position, the slat rests against the main wing, while in the second extended position, a gap is formed between the trailing edge of the slat and the leading edge of the main wing.

[0027] Alternatively, preferably, when viewed along the longitudinal axis of the track, the mating surface comprises six surface segments having six separate, preferably different, radii of curvature. Specifically, the first surface segment having a first radius of curvature relates to the travel path of the first end roller unit between the retracted and extended positions. The second surface segment having a second radius of curvature relates to the travel path of the first end roller unit between the first and second extended positions. The third surface segment having a third radius of curvature relates to a recessed portion that, in the retracted position, aligns with the intermediate roller unit such that the contact force between the intermediate roller unit and the mating surface of the slat track is eliminated or reduced. The fourth surface segment having a fourth radius of curvature relates to the travel path of the intermediate roller unit between the retracted and extended positions. The fifth surface segment having a fifth radius of curvature relates to the travel path of the intermediate roller unit between the first and second extended positions. The sixth surface segment having a sixth radius of curvature relates to a segment for overtravel and engagement with the second end support unit in the retracted position. By using six separate radii of curvature for the six surface segments, it is easy and efficient to achieve the following: in the retracted position and the first extended position, the slat rests against the main wing, while in the second extended position, a gap is formed between the trailing edge of the slat and the leading edge of the main wing.

[0028] Another aspect of the invention relates to a leading-edge high-lift assembly for use in a wing as described in any of the preceding paragraphs. The leading-edge high-lift assembly includes a slat and a connecting assembly configured to movably connect the slat to the main wing, such that the slat is movable between a retracted position, a first extended position, and a second extended position. The connecting assembly includes a slat track extending along a longitudinal axis between a first end and a second end, and having an intermediate portion located between the first and second ends. The first end and / or the intermediate portion of the slat track can be configured to be mounted to a slat. The slat track can be configured to be mounted to the main wing via roller supports, such that the slat track is movable along the longitudinal axis of the track. The roller supports include a plurality of support units, each of which can be configured to be mounted to the main wing and has a support surface configured to engage with a mating surface disposed on the slat track. The plurality of support units include at least a first end roller unit and an intermediate roller unit, wherein the plurality of support units are positioned such that the intermediate roller unit is positioned relative to the longitudinal axis of the track between the first end roller unit and the second end of the slat track. The slat track and / or roller support device can be configured such that: in the retracted position and the first extended position, the slat rests against the main wing, and in the second extended position, a gap is formed between the trailing edge of the slat and the leading edge of the main wing. The features and effects previously described in conjunction with the wing also apply correspondingly to the leading edge high-lift assembly.

[0029] Another aspect of the invention relates to an aircraft comprising a wing according to any of the embodiments described in the preceding paragraphs, and / or the wing comprising a leading-edge high-lift assembly according to any of the embodiments described in the preceding paragraphs. The features and effects previously described in conjunction with the wing and the leading-edge high-lift assembly also apply correspondingly to the aircraft.

[0030] It should be noted that although the slat track has been described in the above description as being mounted to the main wing via a roller support device, a sliding support device can be used instead of the roller support device. In this example, the first end roller unit, the intermediate roller unit, and the second end support unit can each be represented by or include a sliding support unit, such that there is a sliding contact between them when there is contact between the mating surfaces and the sliding support units. Attached Figure Description

[0031] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be explained in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings show:

[0032] Figure 1 This is a three-dimensional diagram of the aircraft, showing its wings.

[0033] Figure 2 A perspective view of the connection components based on existing technology.

[0034] Figure 3A and Figure 3B The images show a side view and a cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the leading-edge high-lift assembly according to the invention in a first configuration.

[0035] Figure 4A and Figure 4B For the second configuration Figure 3A and Figure 3B The side view and cross-sectional view of the leading-edge high-lift assembly shown are shown.

[0036] Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 5C This is a schematic side view of the slat in the retracted position, the first extended position, and the second extended position, according to an embodiment of the leading-edge high-lift assembly of the present invention.

[0037] Figure 6 A schematic side view of another embodiment of the leading-edge high-lift assembly according to the present invention, and

[0038] Figure 7 This is a schematic side view of yet another embodiment of the leading-edge high-lift assembly according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0039] exist Figure 1 The figure illustrates an aircraft 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The aircraft 1 includes a wing 3 formed according to an embodiment of the present invention. The wing includes a main wing 5 and a leading-edge high-lift assembly 6, the leading-edge high-lift assembly 6 including a slat 7 and a connecting assembly 9, the connecting assembly 9 connecting the slat 7 to the main wing 5, such that the slat 7 can move relative to the main wing 5.

[0040] like Figure 1 As shown, the connecting component 9 relates to a first connecting component 91, and the wing 3 includes a second connecting component 93 that connects the slat 7 to the main wing 5 at a position spaced apart from the first connecting component 91 along the wing span direction 95, and wherein the second connecting component 93 is formed in the same manner as the first connecting component 91. Figure 1 The diagram also shows the wing thickness direction 67.

[0041] Figure 2 A connecting assembly 1006 for an aircraft wing, according to prior art, is shown. This connecting assembly 1006 is configured to connect a slat to the main wing of the aircraft. The connecting assembly 1006 can be used with, for example... Figure 1The depicted wing is used in combination with similar wings, wherein the wing 3 includes a main wing 5, a slat 7 and a connecting assembly 9 (according to this disclosure) that movably connects the slat 7 to the main wing 5, such that the slat 7 is movable between a retracted position 11 and at least one extended position 13, 15.

[0042] According to the prior art, the connecting assembly 1006 includes a slat track 1017 extending along a longitudinal axis 1019 between a front end 1021 and a rear end 1023, and having an intermediate portion 1025 located between the front end 1021 and the rear end 1023. The front end 1021 of the slat track 1017 is fixedly mounted to the slat 1007. The rear end 1023 and the intermediate portion 1025 of the slat track 1017 are movably mounted to the main wing 5 via a roller support device 1027, allowing the slat track 1017 to move along the longitudinal axis 1019. The roller support device 1027 includes a guide rail 1029 fixedly mounted to the main wing 5 and a first roller unit 1031 fixedly mounted to the rear end 1023 of the slat track 1017 and engaging with the guide rail 1029. The roller support device 1027 includes a second roller unit 1033, which is fixedly mounted to the main wing 5 and engages with a mating surface provided at the intermediate portion 1025 of the slat track 1017. The slat track 1017 has a profile including an upper flange portion 1039, a lower flange portion 1041, and at least one web portion 1043 connecting the upper flange portion 1039 and the lower flange portion 1041. The second roller unit 1033 is disposed in a recess 1045 between the upper flange portion 1039 and the lower flange portion 1041 and engages with the mating surfaces provided at the upper flange portion 1039 and the lower flange portion 1041.

[0043] Figure 3A The schematic illustration shows the main wing 5 of the aircraft 1, including the leading-edge high-lift assembly 6 in a retracted configuration. Figure 3B It shows Figure 3A A cross-sectional view of XX. As illustrated, the leading edge high-lift assembly 6 includes a slat 7 and a connecting assembly 9 that movably connects the slat 7 to the main wing 5.

[0044] The connecting assembly 9 includes a slat track 17 that extends along a longitudinal axis 19 between a first end 21 and a second end 23, and has an intermediate portion 25 located between the first end 21 and the second end 23. In this example, the slat 7 is mounted to the first end 21 of the slat track 17, but may be additionally or alternatively mounted to the intermediate portion 25 of the slat track 17.

[0045] like Figure 3B As best illustrated, the slat track 17 is also mounted to the main wing 5 via a roller support device 27. The roller support device 27 allows the track 17 to move relative to the main wing 5 along the track's longitudinal axis 19, and thus also allows the slat 7 to move relative to the main wing 5. Figure 3A As illustrated, the roller support assembly 27 includes multiple support units, specifically three support units 34a to 34c in this example. Each of the support units 34a to 34c is mounted to the main wing 5 and can be mounted in any possible manner. In this example, each of the support units 34a to 34c includes a roller support member and can therefore be bolted to the main wing 5 to allow rotation relative to the main wing 5, in this example, about a roller axis 20 extending along the axial direction of the roller support assembly. Here, each support unit includes a support surface 22 for engaging with the engagement surface 35 of the slat track 17.

[0046] like Figure 3B As illustrated, track 17 includes a first flange 24, particularly the upper flange portion, and a second flange 26, particularly the lower flange portion, connected by a web portion 28. The first flange 24 and the second flange 26, along with the web 28, are oriented in a C-shape to define a recess 41 in which the roller / support unit is positioned at least partially or entirely. Therefore, slat track 17 may include a first inner oriented engagement surface 35a and a second inner oriented engagement surface 35b that can face each other and can also extend parallel to each other and optionally parallel to the longitudinal axis 19 of the track. To prevent the support units 34a to 34c from jamming, in some examples (e.g.) Figure 3A and Figure 3B In the example where the support unit is in the form of a roller support device, the support units 34a to 34c can be sized such that at any given time they can only contact one of the mating surfaces 35a and 35b.

[0047] The support units 34a to 34c in this example are a first end roller unit 34a, an intermediate roller unit 34b, and a second end support unit 34c in the form of a roller unit. Here, the intermediate roller unit 34b is positioned relative to the longitudinal axis 19 of the track between the first end roller unit 34a and the second end support unit 34c (e.g., positioned in the middle portion 25). In the retracted position, the first end roller unit 34a is positioned at the first end 21 of the slat track 17 (e.g., positioned adjacent to the first end 21 of the slat track 17), while the second end support unit 34c is positioned at the second end 23 of the slat track 17.

[0048] In this example, in the retracted position, the load is transferred between the slat track 17 and the main wing 5 via the first end roller unit 34a and the second end support unit 34c. In the retracted position, all or substantially all of the load can be transferred between the main wing 5 and the slat track 17 via the first end roller unit 34a and the second end support unit 34c, or the main load (e.g., most of the load) can be transferred via the first end roller unit 34a and the second end support unit 34c.

[0049] The slat track 17 also includes a recess 30. The recess 30 exists within both the first flange 24 and the second flange 26 of the slat track 17. The recess 30 extends into the track and extends in a direction away from the roller axis 20 of the intermediate roller unit 34b. Because the recess 30 extends away from the roller axis 20 of the intermediate roller 34b, the contact force between the intermediate roller 34b and the engagement surface 35 can be reduced or eliminated, and in some examples (such as this example), the intermediate roller 34b can be disengaged from the engagement surface 35 (e.g., both engagement surfaces 35a and 35b), resulting in a gap 52 between the intermediate roller 34b and the engagement surface 35. Therefore, the load between the main wing 5 and the slat track 7 can be transferred through the first end roller unit 34a and the second end support unit 34c (roller units in this example). Therefore, only the two roller units in contact with the mating surfaces 35a and / or 35b can transmit force between the main wing 5 and the slat track 17, thereby avoiding additional forces due to the excessive constraint of the connecting assembly 9 in the retracted position.

[0050] In this example, the recessed portion 30 includes a gradual transition to the mating surface 35 where it resides, which is illustrated in the form of a ramp. The recessed portion 30 may form part of the mating surface 35 (meaning that the intermediate roller unit 34b may contact a part of the mating surface 35). Additionally or alternatively, the recessed portion 30 may be a discontinuity in the mating surface, and may divide the mating surface 35 into a first mating surface extending in a first direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 19 of the track and a second mating surface extending in a second direction parallel to the longitudinal axis 19 of the track.

[0051] like Figure 3B The diagram is clearly shown in the image. Figure 3AThe connecting assembly 9 and roller support device 27 shown are mirror images of a plane 32 extending parallel to the longitudinal axis 19 of the track and perpendicular to the roller axis 20. Therefore, the connecting assembly 9 includes a second set of flanges 24a, 26a having a second set of engagement surfaces 35c, 35d, and a second support device 27a having a second set of support units 34d to 34f. For simplicity, a mirror image of the connecting assembly will not be provided, but those skilled in the art will understand that it is identical to the description of the connecting assembly 9 above.

[0052] As illustrated herein, the cross-section of the connecting assembly 9 and the slat track 17 of the connecting assembly has an approximate pi (π) shape, which is formed by the first C-shaped connecting flanges 24, 26 and web portion 28, and equivalent mirror-shaped flanges 24a, 26a and web portion separated by an intermediate space between them. However, it should also be noted that the intermediate space may not be present. In this case, the cross-sectional shape may be I-shaped or double-T-shaped, while still including both the first C-shaped flanges 24, 26 and web portion 28 and the mirror-shaped flanges 24a, 26a and web portion 28. In this case, the web portion 28 may be shared between the flange groups 24, 26 and the flange groups 24a, 26a.

[0053] Figure 4A The diagram shows the extended position. Figure 3A 7. Slats. Figure 4B The diagram shows Figure 4A The cross section AA. Here, the slat track 17 has moved relative to the roller support device 27. In the extended position, neither of the mating surfaces 35a nor 35b contacts the second end support unit 34c. Furthermore, along the longitudinal axis 19 of the track, the recessed portion 30 is no longer aligned with the intermediate roller unit 34b (see also...). Figure 4B The illustration shows no gap between the intermediate support 34b and one side of the slat track 17, but a gap exists between the intermediate support 34b and the other side of the slat track 17 to prevent the intermediate support unit 34b from wedging into the track 17, such that the intermediate roller unit 34b contacts one of the engagement surfaces 35a, 35b, like the first end roller unit 34a. Therefore, in the illustrated extended position, the first end roller unit 34a and the intermediate roller unit 34b transmit force between the main wing 5 and the slat track 17 (e.g., all force is transmitted through the first end roller unit 34a and the intermediate roller unit 34b, or the main force is transmitted through the first end roller unit 34a and the intermediate roller unit 34b). Similarly, only two roller units / support units contact the engagement surfaces 35a and / or 35b, while the third roller unit / support unit is disengaged from the slat track 17. This avoids additional forces due to over-constraint of the connecting assembly 9.

[0054] Figures 5A to 5C The illustration shows an embodiment of the leading-edge high-lift component 6, which may be... Figure 3A , Figure 3B and Figure 4A , Figure 4B The embodiment shown is illustrated. As shown, the slat track 17 and roller support device 27 are configured such that in the retracted position 11 and the first extended position 13, the slat 7 rests against the main wing 5, and in particular, the trailing edge of the slat 7 rests against the leading edge of the main wing 5, so that fluid cannot pass between the slat 7 and the main wing 5. In the second extended position 15, a gap 37 is formed between the trailing edge of the slat 7 and the leading edge of the main wing 5 to allow fluid to pass through.

[0055] Figure 6 and Figure 7 The illustration shows another embodiment of the leading-edge high-lift assembly 6 according to the invention, wherein, when viewed along the longitudinal axis 19 of the track, the mating surface 35 comprises a plurality of surface segments with different radii of curvature. The different radii of curvature of each surface segment are configured such that, in the retracted position 11 and the first extended position 13, the slat 7 rests against the main wing 5, while in the second extended position 15, a gap 37 is formed between the trailing edge of the slat 7 and the leading edge of the main wing 5. It should be noted that the radius of curvature at the inner flange may differ from the radius of curvature at the outer flange, such that when the inner oriented mating surfaces 35a and 35b face each other, the radius of curvature refers to the radius of curvature at the centerline between the mating surfaces 35a and 35b, i.e., the centerline of the recess 41.

[0056] like Figure 6 As shown, when viewed along the longitudinal axis 19 of the track, the mating surface 35 comprises four surface segments 43, 45, 47, and 49, each with a separate radius of curvature. Specifically, the first surface segment 43, having a first radius of curvature, relates to the travel path of the first end roller unit 34a between the retracted position 11, the first extended position 13, and the second extended position 15. The second surface segment 45, having a second radius of curvature, relates to a recess 30, which aligns with the intermediate roller unit 34b in the retracted position 11, thereby eliminating or reducing the contact force between the intermediate roller unit 34b and the mating surface 35 of the slat track 17. The third surface segment 47, having a third radius of curvature, relates to the travel path of the intermediate roller unit between the retracted position 11, the first extended position 13, and the second extended position 15. The fourth surface segment 49, having a fourth radius of curvature, relates to the segment used for overtravel and for engagement with the second end support unit 34c in the retracted position 11.

[0057] like Figure 7As shown, when viewed along the longitudinal axis 19 of the track, the mating surface 35 comprises six surface segments 43, 45, 47, 49, 53, and 55, each with a separate radius of curvature. Specifically, the first surface segment 43, having a first radius of curvature, relates to the travel path of the first end roller unit 34a between the retracted position 11 and the first extended position 13. The second surface segment 45, having a second radius of curvature, relates to the travel path of the first end roller unit 34a between the first extended position 13 and the second extended position 15. The third surface segment 47, having a third radius of curvature, relates to a recess 30, which aligns with the intermediate roller unit 34b in the retracted position 11, thereby eliminating or reducing the contact force between the intermediate roller unit 34b and the mating surface 35 of the slat track 17. The fourth surface segment 49, having a fourth radius of curvature, relates to the travel path of the intermediate roller unit 34b between the retracted position 11 and the first extended position 13. The fifth surface segment 53, having a fifth radius of curvature, relates to the travel path of the intermediate roller unit 34b between the first extended position 13 and the second extended position 15. The sixth surface segment 55, having a sixth radius of curvature, relates to the segment for overtravel and engagement with the second end support unit 34c in the retracted position 11.

[0058] According to the present invention and the wing 3 and leading-edge high-lift assembly 6 as described above, the advantages of a sealed slat and the advantages of a slat configuration with gap 37 are combined. In particular, for takeoff during the acceleration of aircraft 1, low drag and low noise are desirable, therefore the closed gap in the first extended position 13 is advantageous. For approach and landing, conversely, when aircraft 1 requires high lift to reach minimum speed, the gap 37 in the fully extended position of the slat 7 is advantageous. In this way, an ideal aerodynamic performance to the noise generated by the extension of the slat 7 is achieved.

Claims

1. A wing (3) for an aircraft (1), comprising: Main wing (5), and Leading edge high-lift assembly (6), the leading edge high-lift assembly (6) comprising: slats (7), and A connecting assembly (9) movably connects the slat (7) to the main wing (5), allowing the slat (7) to move between a retracted position (11), a first extended position (13), and a second extended position (15). The connecting assembly (9) includes an elongated slat track (17) that extends along the longitudinal axis (19) between a first end (21) and a second end (23) and has an intermediate portion (25) located between the first end (21) and the second end (23). The first end (21) and / or the middle portion (25) of the slat track (17) are mounted to the slat (7). The slat track (17) is mounted to the main wing (5) via a roller support device (27), allowing the slat track (17) to move along the longitudinal axis (19) of the track. The roller support device (27) includes a plurality of support units (34a to 34c), each of which is mounted to the main wing (5) and has a support surface (22) for engaging with a mating surface (35) disposed on the slat track (17). The plurality of support units (34a to 34c) include at least a first end roller unit (34a) and an intermediate roller unit (34b), wherein the plurality of support units (34a to 34c) are positioned such that the intermediate roller unit (34b) is positioned relative to the longitudinal axis (19) of the track between the first end roller unit (34a) and the second end (23) of the slat track (17). Its features are, The slat track (17) and the roller support device (27) are configured such that in the retracted position (11) and the first extended position (13), the slat (7) rests against the main wing (5), and in the second extended position (15), a gap (37) is formed between the trailing edge of the slat (7) and the leading edge of the main wing (5).

2. The wing (3) according to claim 1, wherein, The plurality of support units (34a to 34c) further include a second end support unit (34c), wherein the plurality of support units (34a to 34c) are positioned such that the intermediate roller unit (34b) is positioned relative to the longitudinal axis (19) of the track between the first end roller unit (34a) and the second end support unit (34c).

3. The wing (3) according to claim 2, wherein, The slat track (17) and the roller support device (27) are configured such that in the retracted position (11), the main load is transmitted between the slat track (17) and the roller support device (27) via the first end roller unit (34a) and the second end support unit (34c), while in the first extended position (13) and the second extended position (15), the main load is transmitted between the slat track (17) and the roller support device (27) via the first end roller unit (34a) and the intermediate roller unit (34b).

4. The wing (3) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The intermediate roller unit (34b) is configured to disengage from the engagement surface (35) in the retracted position (11), such that a gap (52) exists between the intermediate roller unit (34b) and the engagement surface (35), and the first end roller unit (34a) and the second end support unit (34c) are configured to engage with the engagement surface (35) in the retracted position (11); and The second end support unit (34c) is configured to disengage from the engagement surface (35) in the first extension position (13) and the second extension position (15), and the intermediate roller unit (34b) and the first end roller unit (34a) are configured to engage with the engagement surface (35) in the first extension position (13) and the second extension position (15).

5. The wing (3) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The engagement surface (35) is configured to engage simultaneously with any one of the first end roller unit (34a), the intermediate roller unit (34b), and the second end support unit (34c).

6. The wing (3) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The slat track (17) includes a recess (30) configured to align with the intermediate roller unit (34b) along the longitudinal axis (19) of the track in the retracted position (11), such that the contact force between the intermediate roller unit (34b) and the engagement surface (35) of the slat track (17) is eliminated or reduced.

7. The wing (3) according to claim 6, wherein, The recessed portion (30) defines a discontinuity in the engagement surface (35) to divide the engagement surface (35) into a first engagement surface (35a) extending in a first direction parallel to the longitudinal axis (19) of the track and a second engagement surface (35b) extending in a second direction parallel to the longitudinal axis (19) of the track, wherein the first end roller unit (34a) is configured to engage with the first engagement surface (35a), and the intermediate roller unit (34b) and the second end support unit (34c) are configured to engage with the second engagement surface (35b).

8. The wing (3) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The recessed portion (30) includes a sloped, gradual transition to the mating surface (35).

9. The wing (3) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein, The second end support unit (34c) includes a roller unit.

10. The wing (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The slat track (17) includes a first inner directional engagement surface (35a) and a second inner directional engagement surface (35b) and / or a first outer directional engagement surface (35e) and a second outer directional engagement surface (35f), the first inner directional engagement surface (35a) facing the second inner directional engagement surface (35b) and the first outer directional engagement surface (35e) facing away from the second outer directional engagement surface (35f), and wherein each of the first end roller unit (34a), the intermediate roller unit (34b) and the second end support unit (34c) is configured to engage with at least one of the first inner directional engagement surface (35a) and the second inner directional engagement surface (35b) and the first outer directional engagement surface (35e) and the second outer directional engagement surface (35f).

11. The wing (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, When viewed along the longitudinal axis (19) of the track, the mating surface (35) comprises multiple surface segments with different radii of curvature.

12. The wing according to claim 11, wherein, When viewed along the longitudinal axis of the track, the mating surface (35) comprises four surface segments (43, 45, 47, 49) with four separate radii of curvature. The first surface segment (43) having a first radius of curvature is related to the travel path of the first end roller unit (34a) between the retracted position (11), the first extended position (13), and the second extended position (15). The second surface segment (45) having a second radius of curvature is associated with the recessed portion (30), which, in the retracted position (11), is aligned with the intermediate roller unit (34b) such that the contact force between the intermediate roller unit (34b) and the mating surface (35) of the slat track (17) is eliminated or reduced. The third surface segment (47) with a third radius of curvature is related to the travel path of the intermediate roller unit (34b) between the retracted position (11), the first extended position (13), and the second extended position (15), and... The fourth surface segment (49) having a fourth radius of curvature is associated with the segment for engaging with the second end support unit (34c) in the retracted position (11).

13. The wing according to claim 11, wherein, When viewed along the longitudinal axis of the track, the mating surface (35) comprises six surface segments (43, 45, 47, 49, 53, 55) with six separate radii of curvature. The first surface segment (43) having a first radius of curvature is associated with the travel path of the first end roller unit (34a) between the retracted position (11) and the first extended position (13). The second surface segment (45) having a second radius of curvature is associated with the travel path of the first end roller unit (34a) between the first extended position (13) and the second extended position (15). The third surface segment (47) having a third radius of curvature is associated with the recessed portion (30), which, in the retracted position (11), is aligned with the intermediate roller unit (34b) such that the contact force between the intermediate roller unit (34b) and the mating surface (35) of the slat track (17) is eliminated or reduced. The fourth surface segment (49) having a fourth radius of curvature is related to the travel path of the intermediate roller unit (34b) between the retracted position (11) and the first extended position (13). The fifth surface segment (53) having a fifth radius of curvature is related to the travel path of the intermediate roller unit (34b) between the first extended position (13) and the second extended position (15), and The sixth surface segment (55) having a sixth radius of curvature is associated with the segment for engaging with the second end support unit (34c) in the retracted position (11).

14. A leading-edge high-lift assembly (6) for use in a wing (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, the leading-edge high-lift assembly (6) comprising: slats (7), and A connecting component (9) configured to movably connect the slat (7) to the main wing (5) such that the slat (7) is movable between the retracted position (11), the first extended position (13), and the second extended position (15). The connecting assembly (9) includes a slat track (17) that extends along the longitudinal axis (19) between a first end (21) and a second end (23) and has an intermediate portion (25) located between the first end (21) and the second end (23). The first end (21) and / or the middle portion of the slat track (17) can be configured to be mounted to the slat (7). The slat track (17) can be configured to be mounted to the main wing (5) via a roller support device (27), so that the slat track (17) can move along the longitudinal axis (19) of the track. The roller support device (27) includes a plurality of support units (34a to 34c), each of which is configured to be mounted to the main wing (5) and has a support surface (22) configured to engage with a mating surface (35) disposed on the slat track (17). The plurality of support units (34a to 34c) include at least a first end roller unit (34a) and an intermediate roller unit (34b), wherein the plurality of support units (34a to 34c) are positioned such that the intermediate roller unit (34b) is positioned relative to the longitudinal axis (19) of the track between the first end roller unit (34a) and the second end (23) of the slat track (17). Its features are, The slat track (17) and / or the roller support device (27) are configured such that in the retracted position (11) and the first extended position (13), the slat (7) rests against the main wing (5), and in the second extended position (15), a gap (37) is formed between the trailing edge of the slat (7) and the leading edge of the main wing (5).

15. An aircraft (1) comprising a wing (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, and / or comprising a leading-edge high-lift assembly (6) according to claim 14.

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