Spoiler Rub Block for Aircraft Wing Gap Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft wing spoilers require costly and complex linkage to control movement and minimize contact loads with flaps, leading to increased weight and maintenance costs, and existing solutions like sensors and wear surfaces incur additional expenses and aerodynamic penalties.
Innovation Solution
The use of a rub block integrated with the spoiler, positioned to maintain a distance from the flap and distribute contact loads, allowing for precise positioning and reduced contact forces, with a flexible tip and wear pads to manage loads and improve aerodynamics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If costly and complex linkage is used to control spoiler movement, then contact loads between spoilers and flaps are minimized, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the load-bearing function from the complex linkage system and concentrates it onto a specific rub block structure. The rub block is positioned to engage the flap at an optimal location, carrying the contact loads directly without requiring complex linkage mechanisms to distribute or manage these forces.
Solution Approach 2:
The rub block serves as an intermediary element between the spoiler and the flap. It mediates the contact interaction by providing a dedicated load-bearing surface that engages the flap at a specific location, thereby minimizing contact loads on the spoiler trailing edge while eliminating the need for complex linkage systems.
2Manufacturing precision
If sensors and wear surfaces are added to manage contact, then positioning accuracy and component life are improved, but cost and aerodynamic drag increase
Solution Approach 1:
The rub block structure is designed to self-regulate the contact interaction between spoiler and flap. Through its geometric design and positioning, it automatically maintains appropriate clearance and engages at optimal locations without requiring supplemental sensors for positioning or additional wear surfaces for protection.
3Ease of operation
If the spoiler trailing edge directly engages the flap, then positioning is simple, but contact loads and wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spoiler structure by introducing a rub block as a distinct element separate from the main spoiler body. This rub block is positioned between the spoiler trailing edge and the flap, creating a dedicated contact interface that simplifies positioning while reducing contact loads on the spoiler trailing edge.
Solution Approach 2:
The rub block is designed as a sacrificial element that can wear over time without affecting the main spoiler structure. This allows the rub block to be replaced independently if wear occurs, protecting the more expensive spoiler and flap components while maintaining positioning simplicity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus to control a gap between movable aircraft wing components are disclosed. An example apparatus includes a body having a trailing edge and a leading edge. The leading edge is to be coupled to an aircraft wing. The trailing edge is to engage a flap of the aircraft wing. The body includes a structure located between the trailing edge and the leading edge. The structure is to engage the flap to maintain a distance between the body and the flap.