Aircraft Leading Edge Structure Actuation via Segmented Duct Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leading edge structures for hybrid laminar flow control systems require significant space for actuation mechanisms and often compromise on flow characteristics and door sealing.
Innovation Solution
The leading edge structure incorporates a first actuation mechanism that extends through the duct structure, with parts inside and outside the duct, enabling powerful and efficient door actuation while minimizing space requirements and improving flow characteristics and sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If actuators are arranged inside the duct for door actuation, then the door can be actuated, but the space inside the duct is consumed and flow characteristics are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is segmented into two parts: one part arranged inside the duct and another part arranged outside the duct. This segmentation allows the mechanism to function effectively while minimizing the space occupied within the duct and preserving flow characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation mechanism extends from the interior of the duct to the exterior, utilizing three-dimensional space. By positioning components in both internal and external dimensions, the system achieves effective door actuation without consuming excessive space within the duct volume.
2Volume of stationary object
If actuators are arranged outside the duct for door actuation, then space inside the duct is preserved, but the door actuation becomes less powerful and sealing becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is divided between inside and outside the duct, with the external portion providing force application and the internal portion providing mechanical advantage through the duct structure. This segmentation enables powerful actuation while preserving duct space.
Solution Approach 2:
The duct structure itself serves as an intermediary element that transmits force from the external actuator components to the door. This intermediary arrangement allows force to be applied effectively from outside the duct while maintaining space efficiency and achieving proper door sealing.
3Reliability
If the actuation mechanism is fully inside the duct, then sealing is simplified, but flow characteristics are compromised and space is consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is segmented so that only the essential sealing-critical components are inside the duct, while other components are positioned outside. This minimizes the volume occupied within the duct while maintaining effective sealing through the door.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the actuation mechanism have different spatial arrangements optimized for their specific functions: components requiring sealing are positioned inside the duct where they can effectively seal the door, while components requiring space are positioned outside the duct.
4Volume of stationary object
If the actuation mechanism is fully outside the duct, then space inside the duct is preserved, but sealing becomes more difficult and flow characteristics are not improved
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is divided between inside and outside the duct, with the internal portion positioned to provide effective sealing of the door while the external portion provides actuation force. This segmentation achieves both space efficiency and reliable sealing.
Solution Approach 2:
The duct structure acts as an intermediary that connects the external actuator components to the door sealing mechanism. This intermediary arrangement enables force transmission from outside the duct while maintaining effective sealing and preserving flow characteristics within the duct.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design achieves powerful and reliable door actuation with minimal space, enhances flow characteristics inside the plenum, and simplifies the sealing of doors relative to the leading edge panel.
Implementation Method 1
The leading edge panel comprises a plurality of micro pores, such as perforations, forming a fluid connection between the plenum and the ambient flow
Implementation Method 2
The first port device comprises a first door pivotable relative to the leading edge panel by a first hinge about a first hinge axis between at least two positions of an outlet position, a closed position, and an inlet position
Data Source
AI summary
A leading edge structure (11) for a flow control system of an aircraft (1), including a leading edge panel (13) surrounding a plenum (17) and having a first side portion (21), a second side portion (27), an inner surface (33) facing the plenum (17) and an outer surface (37) in contact with an ambient flow (39), wherein the leading edge panel (13) includes micro pores (45), wherein a first port device (49) is arranged in the first side portion (21) fluidly connected to the plenum (17) via a duct (53) defined by a duct structure (105), and wherein the first port device (49) comprises a first door (55) pivotable by a first hinge (57) about a first hinge axis (59).