Retractable Leading Edge Device for Aircraft Wing Lift and Space Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft wings face challenges in reducing the complexity and space occupied by flight control surfaces while maintaining their functionality, particularly in situations with space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A moveable leading edge device on the aircraft wing that can transition between configurations, including a retracted position within the wing profile to reduce lift and a deployed position to increase lift, utilizing a simple rotation mechanism to enhance airflow management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If traditional flight control surfaces are used to generate and control lift, then lift control functionality is achieved, but device complexity and space occupation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple flight control surfaces (slats, flaps, and other lift-generating devices) into a single integrated leading edge device. This merged structure performs multiple functions including generating lift, dumping lift, and controlling airflow, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive lift control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The leading edge device is designed as a multi-functional component that can operate in different configurations to perform various functions: generating lift during takeoff and landing, dumping lift during high-speed flight, and controlling stall characteristics. This universal design eliminates the need for separate specialized surfaces for each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple flight control surfaces are deployed on the wing, then comprehensive flight control is achieved, but space occupation within the wing increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple flight control surfaces are merged into a single leading edge device structure that is mounted toward the leading edge of the wing. This consolidation significantly reduces the volume required within the wing compared to having separate slats, flaps, and other control surfaces distributed throughout the wing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes the leading edge region of the wing, positioning itself at the frontmost part of the wing profile. This strategic placement in a different spatial dimension (the leading edge region) allows for effective lift control while minimizing intrusion into the internal wing volume.
3Device complexity
If the leading edge device is retracted inside the wing profile, then space is saved and complexity reduced, but lift generation capability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The leading edge device is designed to be movable between different configurations (retracted and deployed positions). This dynamic capability allows the device to adapt its structure based on flight conditions: remaining retracted to save space and reduce complexity during normal cruise, and deploying to generate or dump lift as needed during takeoff, landing, or high-speed flight.
Solution Approach 2:
The device changes its operational parameters by moving between configurations. When deployed, it alters the wing's aerodynamic parameters (camber, leading edge shape) to generate or dump lift. When retracted, it maintains a streamlined profile that minimizes drag and preserves internal wing space, thus dynamically adjusting parameters to balance complexity reduction with lift generation capability.
4Volume of stationary object
If the leading edge device is mounted closer to the leading edge, then space constraints are reduced, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex actuation mechanism is extracted and positioned outside the main wing structure, while the leading edge device itself is mounted toward the leading edge where space constraints are most beneficial. This separation allows the device to be positioned optimally for space efficiency while the actuation system is located where it does not interfere with wing internal volume.
Solution Approach 2:
A hinge or pivot mechanism serves as an intermediary between the actuation system and the leading edge device. This intermediary allows the device to be mounted toward the leading edge (optimizing space usage) while providing a simple rotational connection that reduces the complexity of the mounting mechanism compared to rigid or multi-point attachments.
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 moveable leading edge device simplifies the wing design by combining lift generation and dumping functions, reducing space requirements and weight, while improving lift control and reducing bending moments, especially during high-speed and low-speed flights.
Implementation Method 1
The oncoming airflow is disrupted as it travels around the wing profile as it enters the cavity through the void
Implementation Method 2
the surface of the device is extended away from the wing profile and into the oncoming airflow when the wing is moved through the airflow increasing lift produced by the wing
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft wing with a moveable leading edge device mounted towards the leading edge of the wing is disclosed. The leading edge device is moveable between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the leading edge device is substantially flush with the low pressure surface. In the second configuration, the surface of the leading edge device is retracted into the wing profile. The second configuration creates a void in the lower surface of the wing which modifies the airflow over the surfaces. The oncoming airflow can enter the void. In the second configuration, the leading edge device reduces the lift on the wing, acting to reduce the lift induced strain on the wing during high speed flight or to help manoeuvre the wing. The leading edge device may also be configured to move into a third configuration.