Multi-Section Folding Wing Geometry for Ground Maneuverability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing foldable aircraft wings do not adequately meet both on-ground and in-flight requirements, necessitating improved designs that enhance maneuverability and flight stability.
Innovation Solution
Aircraft wings with multi-section, foldable structures and actuation systems allowing for various configurations, including fully extended, collapsed, and semi-extended positions, controlled by actuators, sensors, and a control system to optimize wingspan for different operational conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the wings are fully extended for flight, then flight stability and lift are improved, but maneuverability on ground is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The wing system transitions from a static configuration to a dynamic one by enabling the wings to pivot between extended and collapsed positions. The first and second sections can pivot about hinge lines to change the effective wingspan, allowing the aircraft to adapt its wing configuration based on whether it is in flight or on ground operations, thus resolving the contradiction between flight stability and ground maneuverability
2Ease of operation
If the wings are collapsed for ground maneuverability, then ease of operation on ground is improved, but flight stability is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts wing configuration based on operational phase. During ground operations, wings can be collapsed to a compact position for tight maneuvering. During flight, the wings pivot to an extended position to provide sufficient lift and stability, thus resolving the contradiction between ground maneuverability and flight stability
3Adaptability or versatility
If the wing sections are pivotable with large angles, then adaptability to different flight conditions is improved, but structural complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The wing is divided into multiple independent sections (first section and second section) that can pivot separately about different hinge lines. This segmentation allows each section to be controlled independently to achieve various wing configurations for different flight conditions, while the modular nature of the segmented structure makes the complexity manageable through standardized components
Solution Approach 2:
The wing structure incorporates movable hinge joints that allow the sections to pivot through controlled angles. This dynamic capability enables the wing to adapt its shape and span for different flight regimes (cruise, maneuvering, landing) while the hinge mechanism provides a relatively simple means to achieve this adaptability compared to more complex variable geometry systems
Data Source
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AI summary
A system is provided for an aircraft (20). This aircraft system includes an aircraft wing (24) extending spanwise from a wing base (36) to a wing tip (34). The aircraft wing (24) extends chordwise from a leading edge (42) to a trailing edge (44). The aircraft wing (24 extends laterally between a first surface (46) and a second surface (48). The aircraft wing (24) includes a first section (50), a second section (52) and a third section (54). The second section (52) extends spanwise between and connects the third section (54) and the first section (50). The second section (52) is pivotally connected to first section (50) at a first hinge line (56). The third section (54) is pivotally connected to the second section (52) at a second hinge line (58) that is angularly offset from the first hinge line (56) by a first acute angle (62).