Aircraft Trailing Edge Panel Support Link with Biasing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing support arrangements for aircraft wing trailing edge panels are inefficient in minimizing space, clashing with routings, and failing to withstand over-travel failures of spoilers, while also being cumbersome for installation and removal.
Innovation Solution
A support structure comprising a link with a pivot joint and a biasing arrangement, such as a spring, that maintains the link in an upright orientation to securely attach the trailing edge panel, allowing for easy installation and removal of routings by moving them transversely, and providing a spoiler stop to prevent damage from over-travel failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If traditional support arrangements are used for trailing edge panels, then the panel can be supported, but the arrangement clashes with routings and uses excessive space
Solution Approach 1:
The support arrangement uses a movable link that can rotate about a pivot joint, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position. The link is biased by a spring to maintain an upright orientation that clears routings, while still providing structural support. This dynamic capability enables the support structure to adapt to the presence of routings without permanent clash.
Solution Approach 2:
The support arrangement transitions from a fixed three-dimensional structure to a mechanism that utilizes rotational movement in a different dimension. By allowing the link to rotate about a pivot joint and use the upright orientation in the vertical dimension, the design creates clearance in the horizontal plane where routings are located, eliminating the clash.
2Ease of operation
If traditional support arrangements are used for trailing edge panels, then the panel can be supported, but the arrangement is cumbersome for installation and removal of routings
Solution Approach 1:
The movable link arrangement allows routings to be installed and removed by simply moving them transverse to their length, as the link can rotate to accommodate the movement. This dynamic characteristic simplifies the installation process compared to fixed support arrangements that would require complex disassembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The support arrangement serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the trailing edge panel, prevents over-travel failures of spoilers through the spoiler stop, and facilitates the installation and removal of routings. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms, thereby reducing overall complexity.
3Reliability
If traditional support arrangements are used for trailing edge panels, then the panel can be supported, but the arrangement cannot withstand over-travel failures of spoilers
Solution Approach 1:
The support arrangement incorporates a spoiler stop that prevents over-travel failures of spoilers before they can cause damage. The link and pivot joint configuration is designed to counteract the harmful effect of spoiler over-travel by providing a mechanical stop that limits the movement, thereby protecting the trailing edge panel and surrounding structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing spring is pre-loaded to maintain the link in an upright orientation before any spoiler movement occurs. This preliminary positioning ensures that the support structure is already in the correct state to withstand over-travel failures, eliminating the need for complex active control systems during failure events.
4Stability of the object's composition
If the link is held in upright orientation by biasing arrangement, then the link maintains proper orientation for attachment, but the biasing force must be sufficient to withstand operational loads
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing spring is designed with specific stiffness and pre-load parameters to maintain the link in an upright orientation under normal operational conditions. The spring constant and initial compression are carefully selected to provide sufficient biasing force while allowing the link to rotate when necessary for installation or to accommodate spoiler movement, thereby balancing stability with operational flexibility.
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 solution minimizes space usage, prevents clashes with routings, and ensures the support structure can withstand over-travel failures, facilitating efficient installation and removal of components while maintaining structural integrity.
Implementation Method 1
the biasing arrangement comprises a spring coupled to the link, and the spring holds the link in its upright orientation by applying a biasing force to the link
Data Source
AI summary
A method of securing a lower trailing edge panel of an aircraft wing. The wing includes a wingbox with an upper cover, a lower cover, and a rear spar. A leading edge of the lower trailing edge panel is attached to the wingbox. A support structure is also attached to the wingbox and a connector is mounted to the trailing edge panel. A link is provided, with a first end and a second end. The second end of the link is pivotally attached to the support structure at a pivot joint. A biasing arrangement biases the link towards an upright orientation in which the first end of the link is higher than the pivot joint. The link is held in its upright orientation with the biasing arrangement; and then the first end of the link is attached to the connector.