Ram Air Channel Assembly with Pivotable Flap for Drag Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ram air channel assemblies for aircraft are not optimized for lightweight and aerodynamic design, leading to inefficiencies in air flow management and increased fuel consumption due to inadequate protection against foreign objects and limited air flow control.
Innovation Solution
A ram air channel assembly featuring a first and second ram air inlet, with a pivotable flap that adjusts inclination to control air flow and protect inlets, coupled with separate channels for independent ambient air supply, minimizing weight and drag while ensuring reliable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a single ram air inlet with protruding structure is used, then air flow guidance is improved, but weight and aerodynamic drag increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the ram air inlet system into two separate inlets: a first inlet with a protruding portion for efficient air flow guidance, and a second inlet arranged flush with the outer skin for reduced drag and weight. This segmentation allows each inlet to be optimized for its specific function without compromising the other.
2Productivity
If a protruding ram air inlet structure is used, then air flow capture is enhanced, but aerodynamic drag increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates air flow capture functions between two inlets: the first inlet with protruding structure captures air efficiently, while the second flush-mounted inlet minimizes aerodynamic drag. Both inlets work together to provide adequate air supply without excessive drag.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the inlet system have different structural qualities optimized for their specific locations and functions. The first inlet has a protruding structure suited for air capture, while the second inlet is flush-mounted to reduce drag in a different local context.
3Reliability
If foreign object protection is implemented, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines foreign object protection functionality into the existing flap mechanism that is already present for air flow control. The flap serves dual purposes: regulating air flow into the channels and protecting both inlets from foreign objects during certain operating conditions, thereby avoiding additional complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The flap component is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls air flow distribution between the first and second inlets, and simultaneously provides foreign object protection for both inlets. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate protection mechanisms.
4Adaptability or versatility
If independent air channels are used for each inlet, then air flow control flexibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements separate first and second ram air inlet channels that are independently connected to their respective inlets. This segmentation allows independent control of air flow through each channel, providing flexibility to adapt to different operating conditions while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.
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 design enhances air flow management, reduces fuel consumption, and provides effective protection against foreign objects, maintaining a lightweight and efficient air supply system for aircraft ambient air consuming systems.
Implementation Method 1
The protruding portion may comprise a deflector adapted to guide an air flow that passes the section of the aircraft outer skin during flight operation of an aircraft equipped with the ram air channel assembly into the first ram air inlet channel
Implementation Method 2
The flap, which, at least in sections, is pivotable about an axis relative to the section of the aircraft outer skin between a first and a second operating position... In its first operating position, the flap projects into the second ram air inlet channel, in order to control the air flow through the second ram air inlet into the second ram air inlet channel
Implementation Method 3
In its second operating position, the flap projects into the air flow passing the section of the aircraft outer skin, in order to prevent foreign objects from entering the first and the second ram air inlet opening
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft ram air channel assembly having: a first ram air inlet with a deflector protruding from the aircraft outer skin, the deflector guiding an air flow into a first ram air inlet channel; a second ram air inlet having a cross-sectional area flush with the outer skin, the second inlet being coupled to a second ram air inlet channel and arranged proximate to the first inlet upstream of the first inlet; and a flap pivotable about an axis between first and second operating positions. The axis is upstream of the first and second inlets and extends perpendicular to the air flow. The flap in its first position projects into the second inlet channel to control air flow through the second inlet into the second inlet channel, and in its second position projects into the air flow to prevent foreign objects from entering the first and second inlets.