N-Stable Separating Surface for Aircraft Wing Gap Noise
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for reducing aerodynamic noise at supplementary wings of aircraft, such as inflatable structures and flaps, are complex, prone to breakdowns, and have limited durability due to material susceptibility to high temperatures and UV radiation, failing to effectively mask vortex flow regions and requiring complicated actuation systems.
Innovation Solution
A system featuring an n-stable separating surface that can be moved into the gap region between the main wing and supplementary wing using an actuator device, which can assume multiple stable states, including a retracted position for safe retraction and an advanced position to separate vortex flow from gap flow, ensuring reliable operation and easy maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-generated harmful factors
If inflatable structures or flaps are used as separating surfaces, then aerodynamic noise is reduced, but device complexity increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The separating surface is extracted from complex inflatable structures or flaps with complicated actuation systems, and simplified to a rigid body that is integrally formed with or rigidly connected to the supplementary wing. This extraction removes the need for complex actuators, valves, and control systems while maintaining the noise reduction function through the rigid surface's ability to deflect turbulent flow.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid separating surface utilizes the existing motion of the supplementary wing itself to achieve the separation function. When the supplementary wing moves to open or close the gap, the rigid surface automatically assumes the appropriate position to deflect flow or allow engagement, eliminating the need for separate actuation systems.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If inflatable structures are used as separating surfaces, then aerodynamic noise is reduced, but durability decreases due to material susceptibility to high temperatures and UV radiation
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces fragile inflatable structures with a rigid, durable surface that does not rely on degradable materials. The rigid surface made of metal or composite materials has significantly longer service life and is resistant to environmental degradation from UV radiation, high temperatures, and moisture, eliminating the durability issues associated with inflatable membranes.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If flaps or sheets are used as separating surfaces, then aerodynamic noise is reduced, but they fail to effectively mask vortex flow regions
Solution Approach 1:
The rigid separating surface is designed with a specific curvature that matches the contour of the main wing's leading edge. This curved geometry allows the surface to effectively mask the vortex flow region by smoothly deflecting the turbulent flow away from the gap area, providing more reliable noise reduction compared to flat flaps or sheets.
4Adaptability or versatility
If complicated kinematic actuator systems are used to control separating surfaces, then angular position can be modified, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The separating surface is merged with the supplementary wing structure through rigid connection or integral formation. This combination eliminates the need for separate kinematic actuator systems, as the supplementary wing's own motion provides the necessary position adjustment for the separating surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The supplementary wing serves multiple functions: it provides the primary aerodynamic function for lift enhancement and simultaneously acts as the mounting structure for the rigid separating surface. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated actuation systems for the separating surface.
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 system significantly reduces turbulence and noise by moving channels on the aerodynamically active surface, ensuring the separating surface automatically returns to a safe position in case of actuator failure, thus ensuring safety and reliability while simplifying control and reducing power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a separating surface which extends at least partially along a separation flow line between a vortex flow region and a gap flow of air flowing in the gap region
Implementation Method 2
an actuator device which can move the separating surface between the at least one stable state and at least one additional state
Data Source
AI summary
A system for reducing aerodynamic noise of a supplementary wing of an aircraft is provided. The supplementary wing is hinged to a main wing and is extendable when a gap region between the main wing and the supplementary wing is opened. The system includes a separating surface which can be moved into the gap region when the supplementary wing is extended and which extends at least partially along a separation flow line between a vortex flow region and a gap flow for the air flowing in the gap region. The separating surface is an n-stable surface which through an actuator device can be moved between at least one of the stable states and at least one additional state.