Airplane Spoiler Reinforcing Structure for Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control surface designs for airplanes are not well-suited for non-uniformly distributed loads, leading to increased weight and fabrication efforts, and are not optimized for load distribution during mounting on the wing.
Innovation Solution
A control surface element with a composite fiber element and a reinforcing structure that includes a primary reinforcing element for main loads and secondary reinforcing elements for secondary loads, where the primary element is integrally formed with the composite fiber element and designed to distribute forces efficiently, reducing the number of required reinforcing elements and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple reinforcing elements are used to handle non-uniformly distributed loads, then the control surface can withstand the loads, but the weight and fabrication efforts increase
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing structure is segmented into a primary reinforcing element for main loads and secondary reinforcing elements for secondary loads, allowing each element to be optimized for its specific function and reducing overall material usage
Solution Approach 2:
Different reinforcing elements are provided with different cross-sectional properties and material distributions according to the local load requirements - the primary reinforcing element has higher stiffness and strength where main loads act, while secondary elements have reduced properties where only secondary loads occur
2Strength
If multiple reinforcing elements are used to distribute loads, then the control surface can handle non-uniform loads, but the number of components and fabrication complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcing structure is divided into functional segments (primary and secondary reinforcing elements) that can be manufactured separately and assembled, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining load distribution capability
Solution Approach 2:
The primary and secondary reinforcing elements are combined into an integrated reinforcing structure that works together as a unified system, reducing the total number of discrete components needed
3Strength
If reinforcements are arranged to handle non-uniform loads, then the control surface can withstand mounting loads, but the weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The primary reinforcing element is positioned and dimensioned to specifically handle mounting loads at the control surface, with its cross-section optimized for the specific load cases occurring during mounting operations
Solution Approach 2:
The reinforcing structure is designed to adapt to different load conditions - the primary reinforcing element handles main loads during mounting, while secondary elements provide additional support when needed, allowing the structure to be lightweight under normal conditions but robust during mounting
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a control surface element for an airplane, in particular a spoiler, comprising a composite fiber element that has a surface around which air flows, a mounting device for movably mounting the composite fiber element on a structural component, and a reinforcing structure for reinforcing the composite fiber element. The reinforcing structure comprises at least one reinforcing element which is integrally formed with the composite fiber element. The reinforcing structure comprises a primary reinforcing element which is designed to receive main loads and which is connected to at least one secondary reinforcing element that is designed to receive secondary loads. The composite fiber element comprises a recess for integrally forming the primary reinforcing element.