Folding Wingtip Control With Lock Validation for Airport Maneuvering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft with elongated wingspans pose challenges for existing airport layouts, as they may not fit within allocated spaces and can interfere with other aircraft or gates, limiting their ability to land and maneuver at conventional airports.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a folding wingtip apparatus that includes actuators, motors, and sensors to fold wingtips from an extended position to a folded position, utilizing a latch and lock system with primary and secondary locks, and a control module to monitor and control the folding process, allowing for safe operation and maneuverability within constrained spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the wingspan of an aircraft is increased to reduce aerodynamic drag and fuel burn, then fuel efficiency is improved, but the aircraft cannot land and maneuver at conventional airports with limited gate and taxiway spacing
Solution Approach 1:
The wingtip is divided into a fixed portion and a movable folding portion. The folding wingtip apparatus includes a first wingtip portion that remains fixed and a second wingtip portion that can be folded relative to the first portion, allowing the wingspan to be adjusted between extended and folded configurations
Solution Approach 2:
The wingtip configuration is made dynamic through the folding mechanism. The second wingtip portion can be positioned in different configurations (extended, intermediate, folded) based on operational requirements, transitioning from a static to a dynamic structure that adapts to different airport constraints
2Adaptability or versatility
If a folding wingtip mechanism is implemented to enable airport operation, then adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional actuators, locks, and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary validation of control commands before executing the folding operation. The controller validates whether a received control command is appropriate based on current system state, aircraft configuration, and operational constraints, preventing inappropriate actions before they occur
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the state of the folding mechanism through sensors and provides feedback to the controller. The controller uses this feedback to validate commands and adjust the folding operation, ensuring safe and controlled movement between configurations
3Reliability
If multiple lock systems are used to ensure safe folding operation, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to primary and secondary locks
Solution Approach 1:
The primary lock system engages first to provide initial securing of the wingtip in its desired position. The secondary lock system then engages as a preliminary protective measure before the folding operation is complete, creating a layered safety approach where locks are engaged in a specific sequence
Solution Approach 2:
The dual-lock system provides a safety buffer against failure. If one lock system fails to engage or holds insufficiently, the second lock system provides redundant protection, cushioning against potential catastrophic failure of the folding mechanism
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods and apparatus to control an aircraft folding wingtip assembly are disclosed. An example apparatus disclosed herein includes a detection module 210 to determine a status of a component of a folding wingtip assembly operatively coupled to a wing (102) of an aircraft and determine a flight stage of the aircraft. The example apparatus further includes a sequence and control module to generate a command to control a movement of the folding wingtip assembly, and a gatekeeper module to validate the command based on the status and the flight stage.