Wing Fold Rotating Latch for Reduced Drag and Weight
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft wing folding systems are heavy, drag-inducing, and require significant maintenance due to their complex designs, which hinder the ability to efficiently transition between long wingspans for flight and reduced spans for airport operations without increasing fuel burn or weight.
Innovation Solution
A wing fold system with a latch assembly that allows the unfixed portion of the wing to rotate between flight and folded positions without changing the wing's cross-sectional outline, using a more compact and reliable design with less excrescence drag, lower manufacturing costs, and improved maintenance accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If current wing folding systems are used to reduce wingspan for airport operations, then the wingspan can be reduced, but the system adds significant weight and drag to the wing
Solution Approach 1:
The wing is divided into a fixed portion and an unfixed portion that can rotate independently. The latch assembly is segmented into a secured portion and a rotating portion, allowing the wing to be folded without requiring a complete structural redesign of the entire wing assembly, thereby minimizing added weight.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of designing a complex folding mechanism that actively drives the wing to fold, the patent uses a passive latch assembly that simply prevents rotation when engaged. The wing's own weight and aerodynamic forces facilitate the folding motion, inverting the conventional approach where motors or actuators drive the folding action.
2Length of stationary object
If current wing folding systems are used to reduce wingspan for airport operations, then the wingspan can be reduced, but the system increases drag due to complex design features
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is extracted as a separate, minimal-component system from the wing structure itself. By removing unnecessary complex features from the main wing design and isolating the folding function to a dedicated latch mechanism, the overall drag penalty is reduced while maintaining the wingspan reduction capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly is positioned locally at the wing root or hinge point rather than requiring distributed structural modifications along the entire wingspan. This localized approach minimizes the disruption to the wing's aerodynamic profile and reduces overall drag while achieving the folding function where it is most needed.
3Adaptability or versatility
If current wing folding systems are used to enable wingspan reduction, then airport operability is improved, but maintenance complexity and costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is designed to be self-latching and self-locking through its geometric configuration, eliminating the need for complex control systems, sensors, or actuators that would require maintenance. The system serves itself by using the natural forces of flight and ground operations to engage and disengage the latch, significantly reducing maintenance requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly uses simple, inexpensive mechanical components that can be easily replaced if needed, rather than expensive, complex systems that require sophisticated diagnostics and specialized maintenance. The straightforward design allows for quick field repairs or component replacement, reducing overall maintenance complexity and costs.
4Weight of moving object
If a rotating latch assembly is used instead of traditional folding mechanisms, then weight and drag are reduced, but the mechanism complexity must be managed
Solution Approach 1:
The rotating portion and secured portion of the latch assembly are designed to work together as an integrated unit, combining the functions of locking, latching, and positioning into a single rotational motion. This merging of functions reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it prevents wing rotation during flight, enables controlled folding for airport operations, and provides structural attachment between the fixed and unfixed wing portions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate systems, thereby reducing overall weight and complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method of a wing fold system may include a latch assembly rotating an unfixed portion of a wing, with respect to a fixed portion of the wing, between a flight position of the wing and a folded position of the wing. A first portion of the wing may hold a rotating portion of the latch assembly. A second portion of the wing may hold a secured portion of the latch assembly. The rotating portion of the latch assembly may rotate between an open position and a closed position. A slot in the rotating portion may receive the secured portion of the latch assembly. A securing portion of the rotating portion may secure a secured portion of the latch assembly. The latch assembly may prevent rotation of the second portion when the wing may be in the flight position.