Vertical Patents (Class 246/213)
  • Patent number: 5794893
    Abstract: Elastomeric transition sections (118, 124) are mounted between the upper and lower portions of a wing (100) and a control surface (102) hinged thereto. The elastomeric transition sections include elastomeric material (126) having a plurality of holes (128) formed therethrough. Flexible rods (134, 136) are secured to either the wing or the control surface and extend through the holes (128) in the elastomeric material (126). The elastomeric transition sections provide a smooth aerodynamic transition between the wing and the control surface while permitting the control surface to pivot about the hinge axis (108) to perform the control function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph B. Diller, Nicholas F. Miller, Jr.