Leading Edge Flap Apparatus Reducing Drag and Weight
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current leading edge flap systems, such as the Krueger assembly, are complex and costly due to their numerous links and pivot points, which increases manufacturing and maintenance costs and weight, and results in higher drag during transition between retracted and extended positions.
Innovation Solution
A leading edge flap apparatus with a reduced number of pivot points, utilizing an actuator driver that moves the first and second flow surfaces along a specific motion path to minimize drag and mechanical effort, allowing the first flow surface to remain in a single extended position while the actuator driver moves to additional positions, and positioning the second flow surface to reduce drag by being hidden from the wind during retraction and extension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a Krueger assembly with multiple links and pivot points is used to achieve leading edge flap extension, then the high angle of attack performance is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary links and pivot points from the traditional Krueger assembly mechanism. By removing redundant mechanical components while retaining the essential function of leading edge flap extension, the design achieves high angle of attack performance with reduced complexity and lower manufacturing costs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a simplified mechanism where a single link structure performs multiple functions: it provides the mechanical advantage for flap extension, maintains the aerodynamic shape, and enables both extended and retracted positions. This multi-functional approach replaces the traditional multi-link system while achieving the same performance goals
2Reliability
If a Krueger assembly with multiple links is used to achieve leading edge flap extension, then the high angle of attack performance is improved, but the weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes unnecessary links and pivot points from the traditional Krueger assembly, directly reducing the weight of the moving leading edge flap system while preserving the essential function of high angle of attack performance enhancement
3Force
If the second flow surface is exposed during transition through intermediate position, then the mechanical advantage is maintained, but the drag increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic motion path where the second flow surface transitions from an exposed position during early extension to a retracted position behind the first flow surface as the mechanism approaches the intermediate position. This dynamic repositioning minimizes drag by reducing the surface area presented to the relative wind during the high-drag phase of transition, while maintaining the mechanical advantage needed for flap extension
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed generally toward leading edge flap apparatuses and corresponding methods. One aspect of the invention is directed toward an aircraft system having an airfoil, an actuator driver, and a leading edge device with two flow surfaces and six links. In a further aspect of the invention, the flow surfaces of the leading edge device are at least approximately located in the same position when the actuator driver is in two different positions. Another aspect of the invention is directed toward an aircraft system having an airfoil and a leading edge device movable between at least a retracted position and an extended position along a motion path having two segments. The second flow surface can be positioned generally behind and/or generally above the first flow surface when the first and second flow surfaces are located in the first segment of the motion path.