Folding Wing Latch Seal for Moisture and Debris Exclusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft latches for folding wings are prone to performance degradation due to moisture accumulation, ice formation, and debris accumulation, which can inhibit movement and require frequent maintenance, especially when using electrically powered actuators.
Innovation Solution
A latch design with seals on the aperture and latch pin to inhibit fluid transfer, featuring a resilient and contact portion to expel moisture and debris, allowing for the use of electrically powered actuators without exceeding operational limits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If electrically powered actuators are used in the latch, then device complexity and maintenance requirements are reduced, but the actuator may be less powerful and unable to expel ice and debris effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The seal is extracted as a separate component that can be independently installed on the latch pin or within the aperture. This allows the sealing function to be decoupled from the actuator system, enabling the use of simpler electrical actuators while still protecting against moisture and ice accumulation that would otherwise require powerful hydraulic systems to clear.
Solution Approach 2:
The seal acts as an intermediary element between the latch pin and the aperture, creating a fluid barrier that prevents moisture and ice from interfering with latch operation. This intermediary component enables electrical actuators to operate reliably without needing the excessive force that would otherwise be required to clear ice and debris from the latch line.
2Device complexity
If the latch operates without seals, then device complexity is reduced, but moisture and debris accumulate on the latch pin, degrading performance
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible seal element is introduced as a thin film or ring that can deform to accommodate the cylindrical latch pin while maintaining a fluid barrier. This flexible seal prevents moisture and debris from accumulating on the latch pin during movement within the aperture, protecting the latch mechanism without adding significant structural complexity.
3Ease of operation
If the latch pin moves freely within the aperture, then ease of operation is improved, but fluid transfer between the aperture and latch pin degrades performance
Solution Approach 1:
The seal replaces the need for tight mechanical tolerances between the latch pin and aperture to prevent fluid transfer. Instead of relying on precision mechanical fitting that would restrict movement, the seal provides fluid isolation while allowing the latch pin to move freely within the aperture, maintaining ease of operation without compromising protection against moisture and debris.
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 seal design reduces mechanical fatigue and maintenance needs, ensuring reliable operation of the latch even with electrically powered actuators by preventing fluid ingress and enhancing lubrication retention.
Implementation Method 1
a seal configured to inhibit fluid transfer between the aperture and the latch pin as the latch pin moves within the aperture
Implementation Method 2
The resilient portion may comprise a resilient material, for example an elastic material such as rubber or an elastomer
Data Source
AI summary
A latch for locking an aircraft folding wing is disclosed having a lug including an aperture, and a latch pin moveable within the aperture. The latch further includes a seal configured to inhibit fluid transfer between the aperture and the latch pin as the latch pin moves within the aperture.