Segmented Upper and Lower Flaps for Aircraft Wing Lift Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft wing control devices, such as moveable slats and spoilers, face challenges in space and weight considerations, particularly when combined, and struggle to efficiently manage lift and stall angles effectively, especially in high-span aircraft where wing tip stall is a concern.
Innovation Solution
A control device comprising upper and lower flaps pivotably mounted adjacent to a slot behind the leading edge of the wing, allowing airflow to increase lift coefficient and stall angle by forming a passage when moved towards each other, and capable of switching to a dump configuration to reduce lift, utilizing a single actuator for efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If moveable slats are provided in the leading edge of the wing, then the coefficient of lift is increased and stall angle is increased, but the device requires complex track mechanisms and substantial space in the leading edge
Solution Approach 1:
The leading edge control device is segmented into separate upper and lower flaps that can be independently actuated. This segmentation allows each flap to be controlled by simpler individual mechanisms rather than requiring a complex track system for a single large slat, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining lift enhancement capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The invention moves the control mechanism from the traditional leading edge plane by positioning flaps on the upper and lower surfaces of the wing. This dimensional repositioning allows the flaps to be actuated from within the wing structure rather than requiring external track mechanisms in the leading edge, thereby reducing device complexity and space requirements
2Force
If popup spoilers are provided to alleviate load on the wing, then lift is reduced, but the device requires substantial space and adds weight to the wing structure
Solution Approach 1:
The spoiler function is segmented into the same upper and lower flaps that provide lift enhancement. By using the same segmented structure for both lift increase and lift reduction, the invention eliminates the need for separate spoiler components, thereby reducing overall weight and space requirements in the wing structure
Solution Approach 2:
The upper and lower flaps are designed to serve multiple functions: they can be positioned to increase lift coefficient and stall angle, or positioned to create drag and reduce lift. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated spoiler structures, reducing both weight and complexity of the wing control system
3Adaptability or versatility
If moveable slats and spoilers are combined in the wing structure, then both lift enhancement and load alleviation capabilities are provided, but space and weight considerations become significantly challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The same upper and lower flaps that enhance lift coefficient and stall angle are also capable of functioning as spoilers to alleviate wing load. This universal design allows the system to provide both lift enhancement and load alleviation capabilities using a single integrated structure, eliminating the need for separate slat and spoiler mechanisms and thereby conserving wing space
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the functions of separate slats and spoilers into a unified flap system. By combining these previously separate control devices into one integrated structure with multiple operational modes, the invention achieves both lift enhancement and load alleviation capabilities while significantly reducing the total space required in the wing
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 provides a compact, low-complexity control device that enhances lift and stall angle management, reduces the size and weight of actuators, and improves handling quality and performance at lower speeds, while minimizing drag and maintaining aerodynamic efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The control device is operable in a lift configuration to move the upper and lower flaps to permit airflow along the slot... Fluid communication between a lower and upper surface of the wing along the slot may increase the lift coefficient of the wing
Data Source
AI summary
In an aircraft wing structure where space and weight considerations are a principal concern, there may be significant challenges in providing a moveable slat and/or a spoiler, particularly in combination with one another. A control device for an aircraft includes upper and lower flaps pivotably mountable adjacent to a slot in a wing behind a leading edge, wherein the control device is operable in a lift configuration to move the upper and lower flaps towards each other to abut opposing surfaces of the slot, to permit airflow along the slot.