Vortex Generator Mounting With Curved Shims on Aircraft Walls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for mounting vortex generators on curved aerodynamic walls of aircraft are complex due to the curvature of the walls, leading to manufacturing difficulties and parasitic drag, and involve numerous parts and assembly steps.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a shim with specific shaped faces is used to adapt the vortex generator's base to the aerodynamic wall's curvature, allowing for one-piece manufacturing and simplified assembly, reducing parts and stabilizing the connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the base of the vortex generator is curved to match the aerodynamic wall, then the vortex generator can be mounted on the curved surface, but the manufacturing process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into separate components: a flat base for the vortex generator, curved shims, and connecting elements. This segmentation allows the vortex generator base to remain simple and flat for easy manufacturing, while the curvature adaptation is achieved through the shim layer between the base and the aerodynamic wall.
2Reliability
If the base of the vortex generator has an edge projecting relative to the external surface, then the vortex generator can be securely mounted, but the air flow is disrupted and parasitic drag is generated
Solution Approach 1:
Curved shims are introduced as intermediary elements between the flat base of the vortex generator and the curved aerodynamic wall. These shims fill the gap and allow the connecting elements to securely fasten the vortex generator without requiring the base edge to project beyond the wall surface, thus avoiding parasitic drag.
3Reliability
If multiple connecting elements and angles are used to secure the vortex generator, then the connection becomes more stable, but the assembly process becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting elements are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: they secure the first and second angles to the aerodynamic wall, support the extension of the active part, and work with the shims to accommodate curvature. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies the overall assembly process.
4Ease of operation
If a cutout is made through the aerodynamic wall to house the active part, then the vortex generator can be installed, but additional assembly steps are required
Solution Approach 1:
The cutout in the aerodynamic wall is designed in advance with dimensions that allow the extension of the active part to be inserted and housed within. This preliminary preparation of the mounting surface facilitates the installation process by providing a pre-configured receptacle for the vortex generator extension, reducing the need for additional modification steps during assembly.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method of mounting a vortex generator (32) on an aerodynamic wall (30) of an aircraft, characterized in that it comprises, before the step of assembling the vortex generator (32) and the aerodynamic wall (30), a step of placing at least one wedge (52) interposed between the base (40) of the vortex generator (32) and the aerodynamic wall (30), said wedge (52) having a first face (52.1), oriented towards the aerodynamic wall (30) in operation, which is shaped like the internal surface (30.2) of the aerodynamic wall as well as a second face (52.2), oriented towards the base (40) in operation, which is shaped like the upper surface (44.1, 46.1) of the wing (44, 46) of the base (40). This solution makes it possible to manufacture the vortex generator (32) without taking into account the curvature of the aerodynamic wall (30).The invention also relates to an aircraft comprising at least one vortex generator mounted in this manner.