Rib Mounting Flange Structure for UAV Wing Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aerial vehicles, both manned and unmanned, face challenges in managing loads on their wings, which can lead to damage and reduced lifespan if not properly addressed.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of rib mounting flanges that include spar openings, holes for fastening hardware, and rib members attached via adhesive or other means, designed to transfer loads from rib members to the main spar, with varying designs to accommodate different spar profiles and loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rib mounting flanges are used to transfer loads from rib members to the main spar, then the structural integrity and load management of the wing is improved, but the device complexity and number of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rib mounting flange combines multiple functions into a single component: it serves as both the mounting structure for the rib member and the load transfer interface to the main spar. The flange integrates the spar opening, fastening hardware holes, and rib member attachment features into one unified structure, reducing the need for separate components while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The rib mounting flange is designed as a multi-functional component that performs several critical functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, transfers loads from rib members to the main spar, accommodates varying spar profiles through adjustable configurations, and includes integrated fastening features. This universal design reduces overall system complexity despite the added structural capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple pieces are used to adapt to varying main spar profiles, then the adaptability of the rib mounting flange is improved, but the device complexity and assembly process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rib mounting flange is divided into multiple separable pieces that can be independently adjusted and assembled around varying spar profiles. This segmentation allows each piece to be optimized for specific geometric adaptations while maintaining the ability to conform to different spar shapes and sizes through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-piece design incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable features that allow the rib mounting flange to dynamically adapt to different spar profiles. The pieces can be positioned and configured to match varying geometric requirements, providing flexibility without requiring completely different components for each spar variation.
3Reliability
If rib mounting flanges with multiple holes for fastening hardware are used, then the reliability of load transfer is improved, but the manufacturing precision and production time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rib mounting flange incorporates multiple holes for fastening hardware as an integrated feature of the universal mounting structure. These holes are strategically positioned to provide redundant load paths and enhanced attachment options, improving reliability while being manufactured as standard features of the flange geometry rather than requiring separate precision operations.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, devices, and methods including one or more rib mounting flanges, where each rib mounting flange comprises: a spar opening configured to receive a main spar of a wing panel; one or more holes for receiving cross-bracing cables; and one or more holes for receiving cross-bracing cables; and one or more holes for connecting the rib mounting flange to an adjacent rib mounting flange.