Swing Wing Tip Dual Load Path Structure

The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the wing tip configuration changeable between fixed and folded positions. The wing tip portion can be dynamically adjusted: extended during flight to maximize wingspan for fuel efficiency, and folded when approaching or departing from airports with size restrictions. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the aircraft to adapt its wingspan to different operational phases and airport infrastructure constraints.

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the wing structure into fixed wing portions and movable wing tip portions. The wing tip portions are separated from the main wing structure and can be independently folded or extended. This segmentation allows the aircraft to reduce its overall wingspan by folding only the tip portions while maintaining the structural integrity of the main wing, enabling operation at restricted airports without compromising the aerodynamic benefits of a longer wingspan during flight.

The patent applies local quality by implementing dual load paths specifically at critical locations where the movable wing tip portions connect to the fixed wing structure. Rather than duplicating load paths throughout the entire wing structure, the dual load path system is localized to the rotation joints and connection points between fixed and movable portions. This provides fail-safe capability at the most critical structural interfaces while avoiding unnecessary complexity in less critical areas.

The patent applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating redundant load paths in advance to protect against potential failures. The dual load path structure ensures that if one load path fails, the second load path is already in place and ready to carry the load, preventing catastrophic failure. This proactive redundancy is built into the structure before any failure can occur, ensuring continued safe operation.

The patent applies dynamics by implementing rotation joints that allow the wing tip portions to be dynamically folded and extended. These rotation joints provide controlled movement between the fixed and movable portions, enabling the wing tips to be positioned in different configurations as needed for airport operations or flight performance.

The patent applies segmentation by separating the wing into fixed portions and movable tip portions connected through rotation joints. This segmentation allows independent control and positioning of the wing tips, reducing overall wingspan when folded while maintaining the option to extend them for flight. The modular segmented structure manages complexity by localizing the movable elements to only the tip portions rather than the entire wing structure.