3D Wing Flap Linkage for Multi-Axis Extension in Swept Wings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load-bearing linkages for aviation technology, such as those used in extending and retracting aircraft flaps, face inefficiencies due to the need for complex actuation along multiple axes, particularly in swept wing configurations, often sacrificing efficiency or requiring external mechanisms that protrude into the airflow.
Innovation Solution
A three-dimensional extension linkage that simultaneously translates and rotates a body, such as a wing flap, using a single mechanism with revolute and spherical joints, allowing for efficient deployment and retraction while minimizing aerodynamic drag and reducing part count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If tracked actuators are used to achieve simultaneous extension along multiple axes, then the flaps can be actuated in both spanwise and chordwise directions, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuation functions into a single linkage mechanism that simultaneously achieves spanwise and chordwise extension. The linkage integrates the functions of multiple tracked actuators into one unified structure with revolute and spherical joints, reducing the number of separate actuation systems while maintaining multi-axis capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it extends the flap in spanwise direction, extends in chordwise direction, and provides both rotational and translational movement. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate specialized actuators for each movement type.
2Device complexity
If simple actuation with single point of rotation is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the efficiency of swept wings and extension is sacrificed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces spherical joints that enable movement in three-dimensional space, allowing the linkage to achieve both spanwise and chordwise extension simultaneously. This dimensional approach replaces simple single-axis rotation with multi-axis movement capability, improving extension efficiency without requiring complex tracked actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage uses a dynamic arrangement of revolute and spherical joints that allows the flap to move through a complex three-dimensional trajectory. This dynamic mechanism adapts the movement path to achieve efficient extension for swept wing configurations while maintaining relatively simple actuation.
3Strength
If conventional linkages are used for flap extension, then structural integrity is maintained, but aerodynamic drag increases due to external mechanisms protruding into airflow
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage mechanism is designed to nest within the wetted surface of the aircraft body during operation. The revolute and spherical joints are arranged to allow the flap extension mechanism to be contained within the aircraft's aerodynamic profile, eliminating external protrusions that would create drag while maintaining the structural integrity needed for load-bearing operation.
Data Source
AI summary
An extension linkage for a wing flap can include at least one arm that includes two elements connected by a joint. The linkage can include an actuation mechanism, additional arms and/or each arm can include more than two elements, tie rods and/or cross pieces connecting two or more arms, and any other suitable components. The linkage functions to translate and rotate a body attached to one end of the arm relative to a primary structure attached to a second end of the arm. The linkage resides entirely within a space defined by the upper skin and the lower skin of the wing rearward of the mounting when in a retracted configuration.