3D Curved Cable Linkage Aperture Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linkages for guiding and protecting flexible cables between movable structures, such as aircraft wings and slats, result in large apertures that compromise aerodynamics, admit foreign objects, and weaken the leading edge skin, while also interfering with other system components during downward rotation.
Innovation Solution
A cable guiding linkage with a distal arm shaped as a three-dimensional curve, allowing it to pass through a small aperture and occupy a swept volume without interfering with other components, featuring a proximal pivot joint, intermediate pivot joints (preferably a ball joint) for multi-axis rotation, and a distal pivot joint for static determinism, with a tubular design to guide and protect the cable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the linkage rotates down about the rotary joint to accommodate movement between retracted and extended positions, then the linkage can be adjusted between positions, but a large aperture must be provided in the leading edge skin which admits air creating undesirable aerodynamic effects
Solution Approach 1:
The distal arm is shaped as a three-dimensional curve that does not lie in a single plane, allowing it to move through a compact three-dimensional path rather than rotating in a two-dimensional plane. This enables the linkage to accommodate position changes while occupying minimal space and requiring only a small aperture in the leading edge skin.
Solution Approach 2:
The distal arm employs a curved three-dimensional profile instead of a straight configuration. This curvature allows the arm to navigate through a compact swept volume and pass through a small aperture while maintaining the necessary range of motion between retracted and extended positions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the linkage rotates down about the rotary joint, then the linkage can be adjusted between positions, but foreign objects will be admitted into the interior of the leading edge which may damage structure
Solution Approach 1:
By transitioning from two-dimensional rotation to three-dimensional curved movement, the linkage minimizes the aperture size required, thereby reducing the exposure area for foreign object ingress while maintaining full adjustability between positions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the linkage rotates down about the rotary joint, then the linkage can be adjusted between positions, but the aperture will weaken the leading edge skin of the fixed wing
Solution Approach 1:
The three-dimensional curved path of the distal arm allows the linkage to achieve full positional adjustment through a compact volume, minimizing the aperture size and thereby preserving the structural integrity and strength of the leading edge skin.
4Adaptability or versatility
If the linkage rotates down about the rotary joint, then the linkage can be adjusted between positions, but the linkage will interfere with hydraulic or electrical cables running spanwise along the wing
Solution Approach 1:
The three-dimensional curved configuration of the distal arm enables the linkage to occupy a compact swept volume that avoids spanwise cables, eliminating interference while maintaining full positional adjustment capability.
5Object-affected harmful factors
If a small aperture is used for the distal arm to pass through, then aerodynamic effects are minimized and skin strength is maintained, but the distal arm must be shaped as a three-dimensional curve which increases manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The distal arm is formed as a curved three-dimensional profile, which can be manufactured using modern forming techniques. The curved shape is integrated into the arm's structure, allowing it to navigate through a small aperture while maintaining structural integrity and aerodynamic efficiency.
Data Source
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AI summary
A linkage for guiding a flexible cable between two structures. The linkage comprises a proximal arm with a proximal pivot joint for coupling the proximal arm to a first one of the two structures; and a distal arm which is coupled to the proximal arm by one or more intermediate pivot joints. The distal arm is shaped to follow a three-dimensional curve along a majority of its length. Shaping the distal arm to form a three- dimensional curve along a majority of its length enables the distal arm to pass through a relatively small aperture as the linkage is adjusted between its retracted and extended positions. It also enables the proximal arm to move in a locus of movement which does not interfere with other system components. The linkage can be used to guide a flexible cable between any two structures, for instance a fixed aircraft wing and a slat.