Removable Battery Wing Channels for Aircraft Weight Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Storing batteries in the fuselage of aircraft increases the size and weight of the aircraft, affects weight distribution, and introduces structural integrity and maintenance challenges due to the need for multiple large access holes in conventional wing designs.
Innovation Solution
Aircraft wings are designed with ribless channels that allow batteries to be translated longitudinally, eliminating the need for multiple access holes and utilizing batteries for structural support, thereby reducing weight and improving stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If batteries are stored in the fuselage of the aircraft, then the aircraft structure can support the batteries, but the size and weight of the aircraft increase and structural integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The fuselage is divided into separate sections with batteries stored in the wing roots rather than the main fuselage volume. This segmentation allows the fuselage to maintain its structural integrity without being compromised by large battery installations, while still providing adequate space for power source storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The battery storage location is moved from the longitudinal dimension (fuselage) to the lateral dimension (wing roots). This dimensional shift allows batteries to be positioned in previously underutilized space that does not compromise fuselage structural integrity, effectively adding storage capacity without increasing overall aircraft weight or compromising reliability.
2Ease of operation
If multiple large access holes are created in conventional wing designs for battery access, then batteries can be installed and maintained, but structural integrity is weakened and maintenance challenges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wing design incorporates pre-configured access panels and serviceable channels that are built into the wing structure during manufacturing. These preliminary provisions allow for easy battery access and maintenance without requiring large access holes to be cut into the wing structure, thereby maintaining structural integrity while enabling operational ease.
3Ease of repair
If conventional wing designs with multiple access holes are used, then batteries can be accessed for maintenance, but drag increases and weight distribution is affected
Solution Approach 1:
Access panels are strategically positioned at specific locations on the wing where they can be opened for battery maintenance while minimizing disruption to the overall wing aerodynamics. The access panels are designed with local quality considerations, ensuring that when closed, they maintain the wing's streamlined shape and do not create excessive drag, while still providing adequate access for battery service.
Data Source
AI summary
A wing for an aircraft includes a first end, a second end, and a skin extending longitudinally from the first end to the second end. The wing also includes at least one channel positioned within the skin and extending longitudinally between the first and second ends. The at least one channel defines a longitudinal translation path for translating at least one electrical power source longitudinally between the first and second ends.