With Nose Slot Patents (Class 244/210)
  • Patent number: 12221209
    Abstract: A leading edge assembly for an aircraft wing. The leading edge assembly includes a housing configured to be connectable to a fixed wing section of the wing, the housing formed with a first opening connecting an exterior of the housing with an interior of the housing, an actuating element movably connected to the housing, such that the actuating element is movable between a first position and at least one second position. The actuating element extends through the first opening and includes a first section arranged in the interior of the housing and a second section arranged at the exterior of the housing. The actuating element is configured to be connectable to a high lift device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2025
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: Dennis Krey, Bernhard Schlipf, Peter Lücken, Florian Lorenz
  • Patent number: 12179919
    Abstract: The illustrative examples provide a slat movement system for use in an aircraft. An aircraft comprises a wing having a fixed edge and a wing front spar, and a moveable slat connected to the wing by a four bar linkage and a slat arm, the slat arm movable along a track comprising a slot terminating prior to the wing front spar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2023
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2024
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Emily Georgia Rayner, Kevin Raylin Tsai, Ramón Augustin Burin, Bret Alan Bowers
  • Patent number: 11981431
    Abstract: A high-lift device surface and associated method of designing the high-lift device surface is described. Methods include entering one or more flight conditions, and receiving aerodynamic forces at a wing, the wing comprising a fixed portion, a seal coupled to and extending from the fixed portion of the wing, and a high-lift device surface having an as-built shape determined based on an anticipated deformation during flight. Methods also include deforming the high-lift device surface based, at least in part, on the received aerodynamic forces, contacting, based on the deforming, the high-lift device surface with the seal, wherein the deforming causes the high-lift device to deform from the as-built shape to a second shape, and wherein the contacting causes the high-lift device to fully contact the seal to prevent air flow between the seal and the high-lift device surface due to the received aerodynamic forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2024
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Jan A. Kordel, Jacob Daniel Virnig, Michael Albert Balzer, Bruce Detert, Emanuel Rizal Setiawan
  • Patent number: 11964766
    Abstract: Trailing edge assemblies, couplers and methods for deploying a trailing edge flap of an aircraft wing are disclosed. An exemplary method disclosed herein comprises guiding an aft portion of the trailing edge flap along an elongated track member as the trailing edge flap moves toward the deployed position; guiding a forward portion of the trailing edge flap along the elongated track member as the trailing edge flap moves toward the deployed position; and accommodating transverse movement of the forward portion of the trailing edge flap relative to the elongated track member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2024
    Assignee: BOMBARDIER INC.
    Inventors: Dmitry Budnitsky, Howard Ian Smith, Thomas Hanson
  • Patent number: 11858650
    Abstract: A ram air turbine (RAT) restow system includes an actuator assembly with a piston interposed between an upper fluid compartment and a lower fluid compartment. The actuator assembly is configured to selectively move the piston between a deployed position and a stowed position. A hydraulic restow circuit is interposed between the actuator assembly and a hydraulic fluid system that is configured to output fluid. The hydraulic restow circuit includes a restow valve configured to operate in a first position that establishes a first fluid path to deliver the fluid to the upper fluid compartment and a second position that establishes a second fluid path to deliver the fluid to the lower fluid compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: HAMILTON SUNDSTRAND CORPORATION
    Inventors: Timothy Scott Konicek, Stuart T. Gerger, Stephen Michael Bortoli
  • Patent number: 11731754
    Abstract: Certain aspects of the present disclosure provide techniques for an aerodynamic surface actuation system, including: a plurality of outer tracks, wherein each outer track of the plurality of outer tracks include: an inner roller channel; and an outer roller channel positioned above the inner roller channel; an aerodynamic surface connected to a carrier, wherein the carrier includes: a plurality of rollers configured to move within inner roller channels of the plurality of outer tracks; and a carrier rack; a plurality of fixed rollers mounted to a plurality of longitudinal structural elements in an aerodynamic structure, wherein the plurality of fixed rollers are disposed within outer roller channels of the plurality of outer tracks; and a plurality of fixed racks, wherein each fixed rack of the plurality of fixed racks is mounted to a longitudinal structural element of the plurality of longitudinal structural elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2023
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Mark S. Good, Stephen P. Walker
  • Patent number: 11673647
    Abstract: A flap system driving a leading-edge flap between retracted and extended positions comprises a leading-edge flap having first and second flap joints, first and second scissor links, a first connecting link, and an actuator. The actuator couples with either the first scissor link or first connecting link. The first scissor link is rotatable supported on a first fixed point by a first support joint. An end of the first scissor link opposite the first support joint couples with the first flap joint. The first connecting link is rotatably supported on a second fixed point by a second support joint. An end of the first connecting link opposite the second support joint rotatably couples with an end of the second scissor link. An opposite end of the second scissor link couples with the second flap joint. The first and second scissor links are rotatably coupled to form a scissor arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Grimminger, Markus Gibbert, Bernhard Schlipf
  • Patent number: 11649047
    Abstract: Disclosed is an aircraft having ducted fans inside ducts that are incorporated into an aircraft body design to configure an undercambered bottom. Two forward ducts intake above the body (creating lift) and expel air downward and slightly outward at the front of the craft. Two rear ducts also intake above the body, but expel air downwardly and outwardly at the rear of the craft. The overall volume and footprint for the craft enables use in existing parking and other environmental structures normally used to accommodate automobiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2023
    Inventor: Kaylee Stukas
  • Patent number: 11565789
    Abstract: A wing for an aircraft includes a main wing, slat, and connection assembly movably connecting the slat to the main wing, wherein the slat is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The connection assembly includes a guide rail and an elongate slat track extending along a track longitudinal axis between front and rear ends, the front end of the slat track fixedly mounted to the slat. A first roller unit is mounted to the rear end of the slat track engaging the guide rail. A roller bearing includes a second roller unit mounted to the main wing and engaging an engagement surface of the slat track. The slat track includes a slot extending through the slat track along the track longitudinal axis. The second roller unit includes a first roller element and a second roller element mounted on one common shaft for common rotation, and the common shaft proceeds through the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2023
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Bernhard Schlipf, Florian Lorenz, Stefan Bensmann, Dustin Shapi
  • Patent number: 11492098
    Abstract: A high-lift device includes a flap disposed at a leading edge of a wing, and configured to be retracted in the lower surface and extended toward of the leading edge; a first rotary shaft and a second rotary shaft, the axial direction of the rotary shafts being disposed along the spanwise direction of the wing, respectively; a first link mechanism connected to the first rotary shaft and the flap; and a second link mechanism connected to the second rotary shaft and the flap. When the first link mechanism is driven with the first rotary shaft, the flap is retracted in the lower surface of the leading edge or is extended toward the front of the leading edge. When the second link mechanism is driven with the second rotary shaft, the position or the angle of the flap moved by the first link mechanism is changed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2022
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Kosuke Toyoda, Hikaru Takami, Hiroki Sakiyama
  • Patent number: 11332233
    Abstract: A flap system driving a leading-edge flap between retracted and extended positions comprises a leading-edge flap, an actuator, first, second and third fixed links, first and second connecting links, and an auxiliary link. The first, second and third fixed links are rotatably supported on respective first, second and third structurally fixed points by respective first, second and third support joints. The first fixed link couples with an end of the first connecting link, which is coupled with a first flap joint at another end. The second fixed link rotatably couples with a central region of the first connecting link. The third fixed link rotatably couples with an end of the second connecting link, which is coupled with a second flap joint at another end. The second connecting link couples with the first fixed link through the auxiliary link, each at positions inside of the respective ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: Markus Gibbert, Blazenko Coskovic
  • Patent number: 11077933
    Abstract: A flap system driving a leading-edge flap between retracted and extended positions comprises a leading-edge flap having first and second flap joints, first and second scissor links, a first connecting link, and an actuator. The actuator couples with either the first scissor link or first connecting link. The first scissor link is rotatable supported on a first fixed point by a first support joint. An end of the first scissor link opposite the first support joint couples with the first flap joint. The first connecting link is rotatably supported on a second fixed point by a second support joint. An end of the first connecting link opposite the second support joint rotatably couples with an end of the second scissor link. An opposite end of the second scissor link couples with the second flap joint. The first and second scissor links are rotatably coupled to form a scissor arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: Andreas Grimminger, Markus Gibbert, Bernhard Schlipf
  • Patent number: 11034434
    Abstract: A wing for an aircraft, including a main wing, a slat, and a connection assembly movably connecting the slat to the main wing, the slat movable between a retracted and at least one extended position. The connection assembly includes an elongate slat track. A wing has a connection assembly without requiring the front spar being penetrated. The slat track has a first end mounted to the slat and a second end guided at the main wing for movement along a predetermined path extending in a direction from a front spar to a leading edge of the main wing and from a lower side to an upper side of the main wing. Between the first and second ends the slat track is mounted to the main wing allowing translation of the slat track and rotation of the slat track about a first axis of rotation parallel to the leading edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Lars Stecher, Martin Fees
  • Patent number: 11021229
    Abstract: A wing for an aircraft, comprising a main wing, a slat, and a connection assembly movably connecting the slat to the main wing, allowing the slat to be moved between a retracted and at least one extended position. The assembly comprises an elongate slat track mounted to the main wing movably along a track longitudinal axis and connected to the slat. The wing has a compact connection assembly that does not require the front spar to be penetrated, in that the slat track is rotatably connected to the slat via a first hinge. The assembly further comprises a link element rotatably connected to the slat via a second hinge, and rotatably mounted to the main wing via a third hinge spaced apart from the second hinge. Also, a first axis of rotation of the first hinge is spaced apart from a second axis of rotation of the second hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2021
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventor: Florian Lorenz
  • Patent number: 10822072
    Abstract: A wing for an aircraft, including a main wing, a slat, and a connection assembly for movably connecting the slat to the main wing, such that the slat is movable between a retracted position and at least one extended position. The connection assembly includes a first connection element and a second connection element, both movably mounted to the main wing and mounted to the slat, wherein the second connection element is spaced apart from the first connection element in a wing span direction. The wing further includes a drive unit provided at the main wing and connected to the slat for initiating movement of the slat. An object, to prevent skew cases of the slat, is achieved in that the connection assembly includes a rotatable sync shaft rotatably engaging both the first connection element and the second connection element for sync movement of the first and second connection elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2020
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Bernhard Schlipf, Dort Daandels
  • Patent number: 10793253
    Abstract: An aircraft wing comprising a movable flap which is able to move in rotation relative to a fixed central body, flexible piping and a rail for guiding the movable flap and the flexible piping. The flexible piping-runs along the rail and is secured to the rail close to a distal end of the rail. The wing comprises a structure for holding the flexible piping against or close to the guiding rail, which is borne by the fixed central body. The wing also comprises a housing for accommodating the flexible piping. The housing comprises a wall which is shaped such that the flexible piping coils up inside the housing, being pressed against the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2020
    Assignee: SONACA S.A.
    Inventors: Nicolas Dumont, Sylvain Penouilh
  • Patent number: 10787242
    Abstract: There is provided an aerodynamic control apparatus for an air vehicle comprising a flap system including a first spanwise flap segment to be arranged on a first side of an air vehicle, a second spanwise flap segment to be arranged on the first side of the air vehicle, and a controller to actuate the first spanwise flap segment to a first flap deflection and the second spanwise flap segment to a second flap deflection, wherein the first spanwise flap segment at the first flap deflection and the second spanwise flap segment at the second flap deflection form a piecewise continuous trailing edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Assignee: United States of America as Represented by the Administrator of NASA
    Inventor: Nhan T. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 10773792
    Abstract: An air flow channeling yaw control device includes a vane cover, a vane array, and an actuator. The vane array includes a plurality of vanes, each of the plurality of vanes comprising a first edge and a second edge, the first edge being hingedly coupled to the vane cover and the second edge being hingedly coupled to a wing of an aircraft. The wing includes a leading edge and a trailing edge. The actuator is configured to move the plurality of vanes from a retracted position into a deployed position. The plurality of vanes, when moved into the deployed position, are configured to direct a flow of air flowing over the leading edge of the wing through channels created by the plurality of vanes. The plurality of vanes, when moved into the retracted position, are configured to retract within the wing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Mark D. Buchholz
  • Patent number: 10647444
    Abstract: An actuator failure or disconnection detection device for an aircraft leading edge slat comprises a base and a biasing assembly mounted to the base and movable relative thereto. The base and biasing assembly are removably mountable between a fixed structure in the aircraft wing and the slat at an actuator location. The device further comprises an indicator for indicating the amount of movement of the biasing assembly in a direction towards the base when the slat is retracted towards the wing leading edge. The indicator may be a collar slidably mounted on the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: GOODRICH ACTUATION SYSTEMS LIMITED
    Inventors: Mark Hubberstey, Mark Timms
  • Patent number: 10618644
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is an exemplary embodiment of a system for driving a slat of an aircraft. The system includes first and second hinge support elements of a wing structure, a first arm device, a second arm device, and a third arm device. Also disclosed is an aircraft having the system, an aircraft wing having the system, and a method for driving a slat of an aircraft. The system utilizes a particular configuration of connection junctions, which rotatably connect the arm devices and the hinge support elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2020
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: Atra Surya Gemilang, Marc Hencke
  • Patent number: 10589839
    Abstract: A wing for an aircraft, comprising a main wing, a slat, and a connection assembly for movably connecting the slat to the main wing. The connection assembly comprises first and second link elements. The first link element has a first link end rotatably mounted to the slat via a first joint, and a second link end rotatably mounted to the main wing via a second joint. The second link element has a first element end rotatably mounted to the slat via a third joint, and a second element end rotatably mounted to the main wing via a fourth joint. The first joint, the second joint and the third joint are formed as spherical joints or as universal joints, while the fourth joint is formed as a hinged joint, wherein the hinge axis is inclined between a wing thickness direction and a wing span direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: Bernhard Schlipf, Florian Lorenz
  • Patent number: 10532805
    Abstract: An airfoil is provided having reduced noise generation for use with an aircraft. The airfoil includes a body and a cover. The body has a leading edge spaced from a trailing edge and a side surface disposed between the leading edge and the trailing edge. The body defines an inlet proximate the leading edge and configured to receive air. The side surface defines an outlet in fluid communication with the inlet. The outlet is configured to exhaust air away from the side surface. The cover overlies the inlet and is movable between a first and a second cover position. The cover is configured to prevent movement of air through the inlet when the cover is in the first cover position and configured to permit movement of air through the inlet when the cover is in the second cover position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Assignee: Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
    Inventors: Judith Gallman, Thomas Van de Ven, Tyler Relf
  • Patent number: 10144499
    Abstract: Aerofoil accessories are provided, configured for selective attachment to a wing element, the wing element having an outer facing aerofoil surface and being based on at least one datum aerofoil section. Each accessory provides a modified geometric profile to a datum profile of the at least one aerofoil section when attached to the wing element. The accessories are each configured for having a substantially fixed geometric profile with respect to the at least one datum aerofoil section at least whenever said wing element is airborne with the respective accessory attached to the wing element. The modified geometric profile is such as to provide said wing element with the accessory attached thereto with a desired change in performance relative to a datum performance provided by the wing element absent the accessory. A kit is also provided for enhancing performance of a wing element in off-design conditions. A method is also provided for enhancing performance of a wing element in adverse conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Assignee: ISRAEL AEROSPACE INDUSTRIES LTD.
    Inventors: Michael Shepshelovich, Alex Nagel, Danny Abramov
  • Patent number: 10124881
    Abstract: A load introduction element for a movable surface of an aircraft comprises a load introduction body that is connectable with the surface. A fitting connected with the load introduction body with a first section and a second section. The first section comprises a first bearing means, the second section comprises a second bearing means, and the first or second section comprises a third bearing means. The fitting is pivotally connected with the load introduction body by way of the first bearing means. An adjustment unit connects the second bearing means with the load introduction body in a variable position and is positioned on a side of the load introduction body that is opposite the fitting. In this manner adjustment of a reference position of a surface takes place without the need for an access flap. By loosening the adjustment unit the movable surface is pivotable without moving a flap drive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2018
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Bernhard Schlipf, Tayson William Weiss
  • Patent number: 9789955
    Abstract: A high-lift device includes a flap body which is provided at a rear portion of a main wing which generates a lift for the air vehicle such that the flap body is deployed with respect to the main wing and stowed in the main wing and extends along a wingspan direction of the main wing; and a gap increasing section provided at an end portion of the flap body in an extending direction of the flap body, to increase a gap between the rear portion of the main wing and a front portion of the flap body in a state in which the flap body is deployed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignees: THE SOCIETY OF JAPANESE AEROSPACE COMPANIES, KAWASAKI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kazuhide Isotani, Kenji Hayama
  • Patent number: 9650126
    Abstract: A telescopic strut for electrically connecting a fixed structure of an aircraft to a movable structure mounted to the fixed structure, wherein the strut is adapted to be mechanically connected to the fixed structure by its one end and to be mechanically connected to the movable structure by its opposite end, the strut comprising a plurality of telescopic elements and containing a helically coiled electrical cable, wherein the cable is adapted to move between retracted and extended positions with the telescoping of the strut. Also, a method of operating an aircraft having a movable structure mounted to a fixed structure, and one or more of the telescopic struts mechanically and electrically connected between the fixed and movable structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2017
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS LIMITED
    Inventors: Jack Blanchard, Andreas Yiasoumi
  • Patent number: 9446836
    Abstract: A method for managing a flight control surface system. A leading edge device is moved on a leading edge from an undeployed position to a deployed position. The leading edge device has an outer surface, an inner surface, and a deformable fairing attached to the leading edge device such that the deformable fairing covers at least a portion of the inner surface. The deformable fairing changes from a deformed shape to an original shape when the leading edge device is moved to the deployed position. The leading edge device is then moved from the deployed position to the undeployed position, wherein the deformable fairing changes from the original shape to the deformed shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Assignee: THE BOEING COMPANY
    Inventors: Dale M. Pitt, Nicholas Stephen Eckstein
  • Patent number: 9334043
    Abstract: A wing assembly and method for operating the wing assembly, the assembly having a main wing and high-lift body movably coupled to the leading edge of the main wing, the coupling achieved by a driving device, an adjusting lever arrangement having a first main wing lever coupled to the main wing formed between a first adjusting lever pivot joint and the high-lift body as well as a second main wing lever coupled to the main wing so as to form an effective lever arm between a second adjusting lever pivot joint and a first adjusting lever pivot joint, and at least one adjusting lever non-rotatably coupled to the high-lift body, the high-lift body being movable between an initial position and a maximally adjusted position with respect to the initial position, at least one guide mechanism aiding movement of the high-lift body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Bernhard Schlipf, Carsten Triebl
  • Patent number: 9108737
    Abstract: A scoop inlet for use in a gas turbine engine nacelle has a scoop inlet, and a tab extending forwardly of the scoop inlet. The scoop communicates with a downstream flowpath. The tab has at least one opening at a location upstream of the scoop inlet. A nacelle and a gas turbine engine are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Steven H. Zysman
  • Patent number: 9010692
    Abstract: A high-lift device suppresses the occurrence of aerodynamic noise while minimizing an increase in airframe weight. The device includes a slat main body disposed to be able to extend from and retract into a main wing, and a concave part formed on the slat main body at a location facing the main wing and able to accommodate at least a part of a leading edge of the main wing. The device also includes an airflow control part disposed at an area in the concave part facing an upper surface of the main wing, that is accommodated between the main wing and the concave part when the slat main body is retracted into the main wing, and that suppresses turbulence colliding against the area in the concave part facing the upper surface of the main wing when the slat main body is extended from the main wing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Makoto Hirai, Ichiro Maeda
  • Patent number: 8899528
    Abstract: A blade seal comprises a flexible member having a relatively thick edge opposite a relatively thin edge, and an actuator at least partially embedded in the flexible member for actively deflecting the thin edge with respect to the thick edge upon activation of the actuator. The blade seal may be fixed to an aerodynamic trailing edge of either a fixed aerofoil portion or a flight control surface of an aerofoil for sealing between the fixed aerofoil portion and the flight control surface. Also, a method of sealing an aerofoil using the blade seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Airbus Operations Limited
    Inventor: Christopher Coconnier
  • Patent number: 8714476
    Abstract: A wing includes a spar, and a pair of flexible skins that are attached to the spar. The spar is at the leading edge of the wing, and the skins extend toward the trailing edge of the wing. The wing deploys from a stowed condition, in which the skins are curved in the same direction around a fuselage of an aircraft, to a deployed condition, in which the skins provide the wing with an airfoil cross-sectional shape, for example with the skins curve in opposite direction. A lock is used to maintain the skins in the deployed state, with the lock for example located at the trailing edge of the wing. The lock may be a mechanical mechanism that automatically locks the wing in the deployed state, preventing the wing from returning to the stowed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Jack W. Reany, Terry M. Sanderson
  • Patent number: 8469316
    Abstract: A high-lift device suppresses the occurrence of aerodynamic noise while minimizing an increase in airframe weight. The device includes a slat main body disposed to be able to extend from and retract into a main wing, and a concave part formed on the slat main body at a location facing the main wing and able to accommodate at least a part of a leading edge of the main wing. The device also includes an airflow control part disposed at an area in the concave part facing an upper surface of the main wing, that is accommodated between the main wing and the concave part when the slat main body is refracted into the main wing, and that suppresses turbulence colliding against the area in the concave part facing the upper surface of the main wing when the slat main body is extended from the main wing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Makoto Hirai, Ichiro Maeda
  • Patent number: 8292235
    Abstract: A method of operating an aircraft wing assembly, the assembly comprising a main wing element with a leading edge; a slat on the leading edge of the main wing element; and a seal member. The assembly is placed in a first configuration during take off in which the slat is in a deployed position with a slot between the slat and the main wing element, and the seal member is in a deployed position in which it seals the slot. During cruise both the slat and the seal member are retracted. During landing the slat is deployed fully with a slot between the slat and the main wing element, but the seal member is kept in its retracted position so that the slot remains open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: Airbus Operations Limited
    Inventors: Timothy David Wollaston, James Michael Ribeiro
  • Patent number: 8006941
    Abstract: A system for reducing aerodynamic noise of a supplementary wing of an aircraft is provided. The supplementary wing is hinged to a main wing and is extendable when a gap region between the main wing and the supplementary wing is opened. The system includes a separating surface which can be moved into the gap region when the supplementary wing is extended and which extends at least partially along a separation flow line between a vortex flow region and a gap flow for the air flowing in the gap region. The separating surface is an n-stable surface which through an actuator device can be moved between at least one of the stable states and at least one additional state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Lorkowski, Boris Grohmann
  • Patent number: 7992826
    Abstract: A method of reducing drag of a leading edge device having first and second flow surfaces includes coupling the first flow surface to an airfoil and coupling the second flow surface to the first flow surface. The leading edge device may be moved between a retracted position and an extended position. The second flow surface may be positioned generally behind the first flow surface during at least a portion of the movement of the leading edge device between the retracted and extended positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: James M. Wheaton, Stephen R. Amorosi
  • Patent number: 7828250
    Abstract: The present invention is directed generally toward leading edge flap apparatuses and corresponding methods. One aspect of the invention is directed toward an aircraft system having an airfoil, an actuator driver, and a leading edge device with two flow surfaces and six links. In a further aspect of the invention, the flow surfaces of the leading edge device are at least approximately located in the same position when the actuator driver is in two different positions. Another aspect of the invention is directed toward an aircraft system having an airfoil and a leading edge device movable between at least a retracted position and an extended position along a motion path having two segments. The second flow surface can be positioned generally behind and/or generally above the first flow surface when the first and second flow surfaces are located in the first segment of the motion path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: James M. Wheaton, Stephen R. Amorosi
  • Patent number: 7766281
    Abstract: A system for reducing aerodynamic noise of a supplementary wing of an aircraft is provided. The supplementary wing is hinged to a main wing and is extendable when a gap region between the main wing and the supplementary wing is opened. The system includes a separating surface which can be moved into the gap region when the supplementary wing is extended and which extends at least partially along a separation flow line between a vortex flow region and a gap flow for the air flowing in the gap region. The separating surface is an n-stable surface which through an actuator device can be moved between at least one of the stable states and at least one additional state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Lorkowski, Boris Grohmann
  • Patent number: 7708229
    Abstract: A system and method provides for the manipulation of the aerodynamic characteristics of airfoils and other aerostructures using blowing and/or suction. This system and method uses one or more internal cavities located within an airfoil. An internal cavity is coupled to the exterior surface of the airfoil via one or more slots. A rotary actuator is incorporated into a slot. When the rotary actuator is rotated into a first position, it forms a channel that allows fluid to pass between the internal cavity and the air surrounding the airfoil. When the rotary actuator rotates into a second position, it prevents fluid from passing through the channel between the internal cavity and the air surrounding the airfoil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: West Virginia University
    Inventors: Gerald M. Angle, II, James E. Smith
  • Publication number: 20100084508
    Abstract: The present invention provides high-lift devices, wings, and noise reduction structures for the high-lift devices capable of suppressing the occurrence of aerodynamic noise while restricting an increase in airframe weight. A high-lift device includes: a slat main body (4) that is disposed so as to be able to extend from and retract into a main wing; a concave part (5) that is formed on the slat main body (4) at a location that faces the main wing, so as to be able to accommodate at least a part of a leading edge of the main wing; and an airflow control part (6) that is disposed at an area in the concave part (5) facing an upper surface of the main wing, that is accommodated between the main wing and the concave part when the slat main body (4) is retracted into the main wing, and that suppresses turbulence colliding against the area in the concave part (5) facing the upper surface of the main wing when the slat main body (4) is extended from the main wing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES,LTD.
    Inventors: Makoto Hirai, Ichiro Maeda
  • Publication number: 20100019095
    Abstract: Wing of an aircraft having a mainplane (20), which has an upper face (22), a lower face (23) and an aerodynamically shaped area (21), and having an additional airfoil (10) which is articulated on the mainplane (20) and can be extended from a retracted state with a slot area (9) being opened between the mainplane (20) and the additional airfoil (10) and having a variable-position slot-varying apparatus (16) which is arranged on the lower face, forms a part of the aerodynamic profile of the additional airfoil (10) or mainplane (20) when the additional airfoil (10) is extended, and at least partially covers the slot area (9) between the mainplane (20) and the additional airfoil (10) on the lower face when the additional airfoil (10) is in the retracted state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2007
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Boris Grohmann, Johann Reichenberger, Thomas Lorkowski
  • Patent number: 7484694
    Abstract: An aircraft wing including a wing box and a nose flap moveably connected to the wing box by first and second folding hinges. A first transverse link is pivotally connected to first portions of the first and second folding hinges. A second transverse link is pivotally connected to second portions of the first and second folding hinges. An actuator is connected diagonally between the first and second transverse links for moving the nose flap between a retracted position and an extended position. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in the specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Eads Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Juan Perez-Sanchez
  • Patent number: 7357351
    Abstract: A linear cavity is provided on the leading edge of an object that is subject to the flow of liquids or gasses, where said cavity preferably has a wall that follows the curvature of a diminishing sine wave, although other configurations are possible that do not follow a specific sine wave. The cavity accepts the flow of liquids or gasses that enter into the cavity, and where the dimensions of the cavity cause the flow of liquids or gases within it to form a pressure node that extends forward of the cavity. The pressure node provides a wedge means to cause oncoming gasses or liquids to divert around the object body ahead of the object body itself, decreasing turbulence around the periphery of the object. The cavity may be spherical, in the instance of a missile, plane, or underwater transportation means, or may be linear, in the instance of an automobile grill that is subject to wind, or a bridge support, where the bridge support has to maintain position against the flow of current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Inventor: Eric T. Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7264206
    Abstract: The present invention is directed generally toward leading edge flap apparatuses and corresponding methods. One aspect of the invention is directed toward an aircraft system having an airfoil, an actuator driver, and a leading edge device with two flow surfaces and six links. In a further aspect of the invention, the flow surfaces of the leading edge device are at least approximately located in the same position when the actuator driver is in two different positions. Another aspect of the invention is directed toward an aircraft system having an airfoil and a leading edge device movable between at least a retracted position and an extended position along a motion path having two segments. The second flow surface can be positioned generally behind and/or generally above the first flow surface when the first and second flow surfaces are located in the first segment of the motion path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2007
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: James M. Wheaton, Stephen R. Amorosi
  • Patent number: 6866233
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a reconfigurable porous technology for fluid flow control system and more particularly to reconfigurable porosity fluid flow control system for vehicles such as aircraft, missiles, ground and water vehicles to improve the performance of such vehicles. The present invention further relates to a method of operating the reconfigurable fluid flow control system. In one embodiment, the present invention includes a reconfigurable porosity system for fluid flow control on the surface of an aircraft, missile, water-craft or ground vehicle comprising a porous outer skin comprising individual pores; individually addressable valves corresponding and connected to the individual pores for opening and closing the pores; and a pneumatic system for connecting the pores wherein fluid from a high pressure area of the porous outer skin can be directed to a low pressure area of the porous outer skin by opening and closing the individually addressable valves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Orbital Research Inc.
    Inventors: Mehul P. Patel, Jack M DiCocco, Troy Prince
  • Patent number: 6464171
    Abstract: The leading edges of wings, nose assemblies, tails, fins, struts, and other components of aircraft, atmospheric entry vehicles and missiles in which the leading edge is blunted and the flight Mach number is supersonic, are provided with passive airflow channel, resulting in significantly reduced wave drag and total drag, significantly increased lift-to-drag ratio, and reduced sonic boom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Georgia Tech Research Corp.
    Inventor: Stephen M. Ruffin
  • Patent number: 6457680
    Abstract: A separating surface (6) is arranged on an additional airfoil for an aircraft main wing (3). The separating surface (6) is hinged on the main wing (3) and can be extended. The separating surface (6) extends in the direction of the main wing (3) and is arranged along a separation flow line (9) between a vortex flow region (8) and a slat cove flow (7) of the air flowing between the additional airfoil and the main wing (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Assignee: DRL Deutsches Zentrum fuer Luft-und Raumfahrt E.V.
    Inventors: Werner Dobrzynski, Burkhard Gehlhar
  • Patent number: 6435458
    Abstract: A wing assembly for an aircraft moveable slat system has a fixed structure and a contoured surface. The fixed structure has an exterior surface defining an external contour and an internal surface defining a cavity. The fixed structure also has one or more edges defining a cutout. The contoured surface is coupled to one or more of the edges of the cutout and extends into the cavity. The contoured surface promotes airflow from the cavity to the external contour. The result is a solution to aerodynamic losses that does not require an auxiliary track system or moving parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Wayne T. Bliesner
  • Patent number: 6360997
    Abstract: An automatic wing-flap that consists of the use of each side of the fuselage of additional small wings, which act simultaneously as individual wings and as flaps, fastened and divided with a rotating shaft parallel to the transversal axis of the aircraft in two pieces of different surface, where the front piece is the smaller, said both different pieces of the wing-flap have different resistance to the air ram, creating a rotation torque as a function of the aircraft's speed, when retracted or at high speed with a horizontal flap attitude, creating an independent wing and when they are completely extended with a maximum angle of attack they act like extended flaps, some extend bands or springs assist or complement the action of the smaller portion of the wing-flap whose resistance is such that, at low speed, the wing-flap remain extended, acting like a flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Inventor: Manuel Munoz Saiz
  • Patent number: 6328265
    Abstract: A slot forming segment is inserted between two portions of a wing, which are adjacent along a longitudinal axis of wing, into a cove of a carved trailing edge of a leading portion of the adjacent portions and pivotal relatively to both adjacent portions of the wing between which it is inserted. The slot forming segment has such a shape and a position of its axis of rotation that by deflecting it downwardly relatively to the leading portion, it is formed a slot inside the wing's structure of large inlet cross section and high convergence ratio for the control of the boundary layer over an upper surface of the wing behind the slot forming segment for the need of extra lift production. Simultaneously, it is increased both a camber and an aerodynamic surface area of a following portion of the adjacent portions whereby additionally increasing the extra lift production on the wing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2001
    Inventor: Faruk Dizdarevic