Aircraft Wing Knuckled Rib Deployment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft launched from tubes or other devices are severely limited in wing size and configuration due to the need for wings to fit within the launcher envelope, restricting their performance.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of hinged rib sections and a lock mechanism, allowing wings to fold and telescope for storage, then deploy to a larger span with a straightened chord, utilizing a series of pins and springs to secure the rib sections in the deployed state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of moving object
If wings are made large to improve performance, then flight performance is improved, but the wings cannot fit within the launcher envelope
Solution Approach 1:
The wing is divided into multiple rib sections that can be hinged together, allowing the wing to be folded into a compact configuration for storage within the launcher envelope, yet expand to a large deployed area for flight performance
Solution Approach 2:
The wing transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one with hinged rib sections that can change configuration between stowed and deployed states, enabling the wing to adapt its size according to operational requirements
2Volume of moving object
If wings are folded to fit within launcher envelope, then the wings can be stored compactly, but the wing span is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The rib structure is segmented into multiple hinged sections that can be folded together to reduce the stowed volume while maintaining the capability to extend to a large span when deployed
Solution Approach 2:
The hinged rib sections are arranged to nest within each other when folded, allowing the wing to occupy minimal space in the stowed position while expanding to full span when deployed
3Adaptability or versatility
If hinged rib sections are used to enable deployment, then the wing can transition from stowed to deployed state, but the structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rib structure is divided into modular hinged sections that can be independently positioned and locked, providing deployment capability while maintaining relatively simple individual components
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism automatically engages to secure the rib sections in the deployed state without requiring complex control systems, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining reliability
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
Enables the use of larger wings with improved performance by allowing wings to expand and maintain a stable deployed state, enhancing the aircraft's flight capabilities while maintaining compact stowage.
Implementation Method 1
ribs made up of hinged rib sections
Implementation Method 2
a lock mechanism, such as a series of pins coupled together by springs
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft wing has hinged ribs, and a skin covering the ribs. The ribs each include plural rib sections, array from the leading edge of the wing, to the trailing edge of the wing, and a lock to hold the rib sections together in a deployed state or condition. The wings are initially in a stowed state, with the ribs and the rib sections having a curved chord, and deploy to the deployed state, in which the ribs have a straightened chord that defines an airfoil state. The wing may have foam material between the ribs to allow the wings to expand in the wingspan direction, for instance after the ribs have been placed in the deployed state.