Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided an aerodynamic control device for use with an aerodynamic lifting member. The lifting member is defined by a horizontal reference plane disposed therethrough. The control device is provided with at least one support rotor extending from the lifting member. The support rotor is sized and configured to rotate about a rotor axis of rotation which is disposed generally parallel to the horizontal reference plane. The support rotor has an inboard segment which is disposed along the rotor axis of rotation and in rotational communication with the lifting member. The support rotor has an outboard segment disposed off-set from the rotor axis of rotation. The control device is further provided with a control device body which is engaged with the outboard segment of the support rotor. The control device body is sized and configured to translate generally orthogonal to the horizontal reference plane in response to rotation of the support rotor.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a structural transition system for use between an aerodynamic lifting member and an aerodynamic control device attached thereto. The aerodynamic lifting member has an indenture formed therein which is defined by a first shoulder portion. The control device has a first end and is disposed within the indenture with the first end adjacent the first shoulder portion. The control device is sized and configured to rotate about a control device axis of rotation for deflecting the control device relative to the lifting member. The structural transition system is provided with a torque transfer element disposable between and in mechanical communication with the first shoulder portion and the first end. The torque transfer element is sized and configured to deform in response to deflection of the control device.

Abstract: A deformable aircraft door which is movable between open and closed positions and is adapted to substantially maintain contact with the door frame for reducing a perimeter gap between the door and the door frame. The aircraft door comprises an edge portion which is formed to engage the door frame, and an elastic portion which is attached to the edge portion. The elastic portion is selectively expandable and contractible for permitting movement of the edge portion relative to the door frame when the aircraft door is in the closed position so as to substantially maintain contact between the edge portion and the door frame despite changes in the geometry of the door frame.