Flight Control Surface Testing Linkage System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current testing methods for flight control surfaces require multiple reconfigurations of test devices and equipment to apply various aerodynamic load conditions, leading to increased complexity and time, and lack the adjustability to accurately apply loads with desired magnitudes and directions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a linkage system with a support member, actuating member, and load member to apply loads to a control surface, where the actuator setting and geometry of the linkage system determine the load applied, allowing for precise and repeatable load profiles to be applied without reconfiguring the test equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple reconfigurations of test device or testing equipment are performed to test different load conditions, then different load conditions can be tested, but complexity and testing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system employs a movable linkage system with adjustable geometry that can dynamically reconfigure to different positions without requiring physical reconfiguration of the entire test device. The linkage system includes movable connections between support member, actuating member, and load member, allowing continuous adjustment of load application points and angles through controlled movement rather than discrete reconfiguration steps
Solution Approach 2:
The single test device incorporates a universal linkage system that can apply multiple types of aerodynamic load conditions through geometric adjustment alone. The system serves multiple testing functions by varying the positions and orientations of the linkage members, eliminating the need for separate specialized test equipment for different load conditions
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple reconfigurations of test device or testing equipment are performed to test different load conditions, then different load conditions can be tested, but testing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage system enables continuous dynamic adjustment of load conditions through controlled movement of its members, allowing rapid transitions between different test configurations without the time-consuming process of physical reconfiguration. The movable connections permit smooth, controlled changes in geometry to achieve different aerodynamic load conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-establishes the capability to apply various load conditions through its adjustable geometry design, so that when different test conditions are required, the operator only needs to reposition the linkage members rather than reconfiguring the entire test apparatus, significantly reducing preparation time
3Reliability
If existing testing methods are used, then testing can be performed, but the level of adjustability needed to accurately apply loads with desired magnitudes and directions is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves accurate control of load magnitudes and directions by changing the geometric parameters of the linkage system. By adjusting the positions and orientations of the linkage members, the system can precisely control the magnitude and direction of applied loads without requiring complex reconfiguration, maintaining reliability while providing versatility
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus, and system for testing a performance of a device under different load conditions is provided. A load profile to be applied to the device by a linkage system that includes a support member, a load member, and an actuating member is identified. A value for a setting of an actuator of the actuating member is determined based on the load profile. The actuator is operated with the setting having the value determined such that a load is applied to a control surface of the device via the load member. The load applied to the control surface is determined by both the value for the setting of the actuator and a geometry of the linkage system.