Aircraft Flexible Panel Stopper for One-Way Bending Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft outer aerodynamic panels are fixed and restrict localized wing bending, leading to potential interference with internal components and unintended aerodynamic effects, requiring careful management of panel movement to prevent clashes and maintain aerodynamic efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A flexible panel attached to the aircraft structure with a rigid stopper that restricts bending in one direction and permits bending in the opposite direction, allowing the panel to form a seal with moveable devices while preventing interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the flexible panel is allowed to bend freely in both directions, then the panel can accommodate wing bending and form seals with moveable devices, but the panel may interfere with internal components and create unintended aerodynamic effects
Solution Approach 1:
A rigid stopper is introduced as an intermediary element between the flexible panel and the aircraft structure. The stopper acts as a mediator that allows the panel to bend in one direction (toward the moveable device for sealing) while preventing bending in the opposite direction that would cause interference with internal components. This intermediary component resolves the contradiction by enabling selective flexibility.
2Device complexity
If the flexible panel is simply constructed and simply supported, then the panel can passively move between undeformed and bent configurations, but the panel may be unstable and susceptible to flutter under aerodynamic loads
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid stopper serves as a stabilizing intermediary that prevents excessive or uncontrolled bending of the flexible panel. By providing a firm stop at a predetermined position, the stopper eliminates instability and flutter while maintaining the simple construction and passive movement characteristics of the panel. The stopper does not complicate the panel itself but adds a simple constraint mechanism that ensures reliability.
3Reliability
If the rigid stopper restricts bending of the flexible panel, then the panel stability and aerodynamic performance are improved, but the panel may catch on the control surface during retraction
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid stopper is positioned at a specific location on the flexible panel where it provides maximum stability benefit. The stopper's placement is optimized to restrict bending in directions that cause interference while leaving sufficient freedom for the panel to move with the control surface during retraction. This localized constraint approach maintains stability without preventing necessary movement.
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
The solution enhances aerodynamic performance by reducing drag and flutter, stabilizing the panel, and minimizing fatigue, while facilitating easy installation and repair of components.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible panel having a supported end fixedly attached to the aircraft structure, wherein the flexible panel is configured to bend about the supported end relative to the aircraft structure
Implementation Method 2
a rigid stopper extending from and fixedly attached to the aircraft structure: wherein the rigid stopper is configured to restrict bending of the flexible panel about the supported end in a first direction
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft assembly includes an aircraft structure, a flexible panel having a supported end fixedly attached to the aircraft structure, wherein the flexible panel is configured to bend about the supported end relative to the aircraft structure, a rigid stopper extending from and fixedly attached to the aircraft structure, wherein the rigid stopper is configured to restrict bending of the flexible panel about the supported end in a first direction and permit bending of the flexible panel in a second direction opposing the first direction.