At Trailing Edge Patents (Class 244/215)
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Patent number: 9150309Abstract: A fastening system (10) for hanging mountable overhead containers (12) is provided. The system includes at least one pair of support lugs (20, 22) mounted on a support structure (14) or on the overhead container (12). The support lugs (20, 22) can be detachably connected to each other by a pin (30) that can be drawn back in a pin guide (40) and thereby spring-loaded in the exit direction. When the support lug (22) attached to the overhead container (12) is inserted into the support lug (20) having the pin guide (40) when installing the container, the pin (30) is unlatched in the pin guide (40) and automatically moves out into the support eye (22) attached to the overhead container (12). Using a lever joined (60) to the pin guide (40) by a hinge, the pin (30) can be moved out completely into an end position, and locked in said position. In order to remove the overhead container (12), the lever (60) must simply be pivoted back.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2010Date of Patent: October 6, 2015Assignee: SFS intec Holding AGInventor: Holger Stierle
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Patent number: 9120554Abstract: A system and methods for configuring a fluid-dynamic body is disclosed. A camber of a fluid-dynamic body is configured by activating a shape memory alloy actuator coupled to the fluid-dynamic body.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2011Date of Patent: September 1, 2015Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Moushumi Shome, Frederick T. Calkins, James Henry Mabe, Matthew Todd Grimshaw
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Patent number: 9090340Abstract: A high lift system with a main wing and control flaps, wherein the respective guiding device are at least partially provided with a fairing, having a flow control device for purposes of controlling the flow around the high lift system with at least two inlet ducts running along the main wing chordwise direction with in each case at least one inlet, which device is located on or underneath the lower surface of the high lift system, wherein at least one outlet duct for air is furthermore provided, which is connected with the inlet ducts in a fluid-communicating manner, and has at least one outlet, which is located on the upper surface of at least one regulating flap and/or with respect to the main wing chordwise direction in the rear third of the main wing of the high lift system.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2012Date of Patent: July 28, 2015Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventor: Burkhard Gölling
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Patent number: 9090324Abstract: A support unit for a structure within a pressure vessel that includes an external load distribution plate, an internal load distribution plate, a standoff unit between the external load distribution plate and the internal load distribution plate that extends through an opening in a pressure vessel.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2014Date of Patent: July 28, 2015Assignee: OTTOA AVIATION GROUPInventor: William M. Otto
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Patent number: 9045224Abstract: A high lift system with a main wing and regulating flaps, also bearing devices for the mounting of the regulating flaps, and positioning devices for the positioning of the regulating flaps, wherein the respective bearing device and/or positioning device is at least partially provided with a fairing, having a flow control device for purposes of controlling the flow around the high lift system with at least one inlet duct with at least one inlet, which device is located on or underneath the lower face of the high lift system, wherein at least one outlet duct for air is furthermore provided, which is connected with the inlet duct in a fluid-communicating manner, and has at least one outlet, which is located on the upper face in the region of at least one regulating flap of the high lift system.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2012Date of Patent: June 2, 2015Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventors: Burkhard Gölling, Thomas Lorkowski
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Publication number: 20150144742Abstract: An aircraft (40). The aircraft (40) comprises a propulsion system comprising a pair of internal combustion engines (10) each driving an electrical power generator (56), each electrical power generator (56) being electrically coupled to a plurality of electrically driven propulsors (46). The propulsors (46) are located forward of a leading edge (45) of the wings (44) such that an airstream generated by the propulsors flows over the wings (44) in use. Each internal combustion engine (10) and electrical generator (56) is mounted on a respective wing (44) outboard of a centre of thrust (70) of the propulsors (46) on that wing (44).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2014Publication date: May 28, 2015Inventor: Matthew MOXON
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Patent number: 9038964Abstract: An aerodynamic control surface assembly comprising: an aerodynamic control surface (4); an actuator (10) for controlling deployment of the control surface; and a locking mechanism (30) moveable from a locked to an unlocked position. When the locking mechanism is set to the locked position, the actuator is operatively coupled to the control surface and the control surface can move in dependently of the actuator when the locking mechanism is set to the unlocked position. Such an assembly may be used in an aircraft to prevent clashing between a deployed flap (16) and a drooped spoiler (4) in the event of an actuator control systems failure.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2010Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventor: Eric Wildman
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Patent number: 9038943Abstract: Individually operable ailerons pivotable to extend a forward end below a bottom wing surface and a rearward end above a top wing surface. The extended aileron forward end increases drag and subsumes the rudder function in the turn, while the aileron rear end produces drag and airflow redirection to reduce lift on the wing. The advantage of the safety ailerons is that habitual or instinctive pilot inputs to the yoke will recover from a dropped-wing stall at low speed and altitude, while conventional ailerons require counter-intuitive pilot actions to avoid crashing in such conditions.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2014Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Inventor: Ralph F. Morris
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Patent number: 9016638Abstract: An aircraft flap system and an associated method are provided to facilitate ground roll breaking without compromising in-flight performance. The aircraft flap system includes a first flap and a panel pivotally attached to the first flap, such as to a rearward portion of the first flap. The aircraft flap system also includes an actuator configured to controllably position the panel in a stowed position and in a deployed position. In the stowed position, the panel serves as a continuation of the first flap, thereby contributing to the lift provided by the first flap during flight. Conversely, in the deployed position, a panel is articulated relative to the first flap, thereby reducing or eliminating the lift otherwise provided by the flap, following landing of the aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2012Date of Patent: April 28, 2015Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Bruce A. Dahl, Gene A. Quandt
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Publication number: 20150090843Abstract: A high-lift trailing edge flap system for an aircraft wing unit is provided. In high-lift trailing edge flap system, the backward movement and the inclination of the trailing edge flap in the extended position are dissociated in order to allow for the incorporation of the actuating mechanism into the wing in the stowed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 29, 2014Publication date: April 2, 2015Inventor: Bernard GUERING
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Patent number: 8991768Abstract: Improved supersonic laminar flow wing structure, on a supersonic aircraft, having strake extending forwardly of the wing inboard extent, and reversed fillet at strake junction with the wing leading edge.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Aerion CorporationInventors: James D. Chase, Michael Henderson, Sturdza Peter
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Patent number: 8967551Abstract: A system and method for determining whether the relative rate of deployment of all the slats extending from a leading edge of an aircraft wing is the same as a predetermined relative rate of deployment. Each slat includes at least one slat deployment mechanism that includes a drive pinion drivingly coupled to each slat and a rotary actuator having an output shaft driven by a common input drive shaft. The system of the invention comprises a sensor associated with each rotary actuator to generate a signal indicative of the rate of rotation of the corresponding output shaft and to supply that signal to a controller. The controller is configured to analyze the signals supplied by the sensors and to generate an alarm signal if a relative rate of rotation of any of the output shafts differs from a predetermined relative rate of rotation.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2011Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventor: Simon John Parker
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Patent number: 8967550Abstract: A wing is provided, including a high-lift flap arranged on the wing such that it is movable by means of at least two adjustment mechanisms arranged side-by-side in the spanwise direction of the wing and adjustable by means of a drive device. Each adjustment mechanism includes a first adjustment lever, articulated on a main wing surface via a first pivotal articulation, with the formation of a first rotation axis; a second adjustment lever, articulated on the high-lift flap via a second pivotal articulation, with the formation of a second rotation axis; and a central articulation, linking together the first and the second adjustment levers, with the formation of a third rotation axis. An intermediate articulated part is arranged on at least one of the adjustment mechanisms for coupling the first adjustment lever and the main wing surface, or for coupling the second adjustment lever and the high-lift flap.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2010Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventors: Bernhard Schlipf, Xavier Hue
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Patent number: 8939394Abstract: A combined fixed and rotary wing aircraft may operate in vertical takeoff mode relying on the rotary wing, exclusively, and may completely change over to flight support by the fixed wing at higher advance ratios. Advance ratios may exceed not only the typical advance ratios of less than 0.5 but may exceed 1, and may even exceed 2. At the higher advance ratios, the rotary wing may be completely unloaded, the aircraft relying on the fixed wing for vertical support and airfoil lift. To maintain stability in the rotary wing, configuration, autorotation must continue. To power autorotation, without presenting a large area and drag, an anemometer-type flap system may selectively open and close to increase drag on the retreating blades, and provide minimum drag on the advancing blades.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2011Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: Groen Brothers Aviation, Inc.Inventor: Walter Gerd Oskar Sonneborn
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Patent number: 8939411Abstract: An aerofoil wing with a main aerofoil, a high-lift flap movably arranged on the aerofoil wing by adjustment mechanisms. Each of the adjustment mechanisms including a first adjustment lever hinged to the main aerofoil via a first rotary linkage, with the formation of a first axis of rotation, a second adjustment lever hinged to the high-lift flap via a second rotary linkage, with the formation of a second axis of rotation, and a central linkage, with the formation of a third axis of rotation, such that the first, second and third axes of rotation pass through a common pole. The aerofoil wing further includes a drive device with a drive module mounted on the main aerofoil, and movable with respect to the drive module a drive lever coupled to the high-lift flap, and a stop device to limit the maximum extended setting of the high-lift flap.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2010Date of Patent: January 27, 2015Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventors: Bernhard Schlipf, Markus Gibbert, Daniel Schulze, Timo Danne
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Patent number: 8919703Abstract: A hinge sealing element to substantially prevent airflow between an edge of a moveable aero surface structure and an edge of a fixed skin of an aircraft wing in the vicinity of the ribs to which the moveable aero surface structure is pivotally mounted is disclosed. The hinge sealing element comprising a deformable elongate, resiliently flexible strip having an upper face to contact a trailing edge of a fixed skin and one end attachable to a moveable aero surface structure such that said strip extends from an upper surface of said moveable aero surface structure beyond its leading edge and into a space between the edge of the fixed skin and the rib of the aircraft wing to a second, free end. The strip is configured such that it deforms during pivotal movement of the moveable aero surface structure to maintain contact between the upper face of the flexible element and the trailing edge of the fixed skin.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2010Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventor: Simon John Parker
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Patent number: 8899529Abstract: A telescopic strut comprises a plurality of hollow members arranged to slide one within another between a retracted and an extended position. Adjacent hollow members are arranged to be electrically connected by one or more electrical connector assemblies as the hollow members move between the retracted and extended positions. Each electrical connector assembly includes an electrically conductive pad on one of the hollow members which is in sliding contact with an electrically conductive strip on the other of the hollow members. The telescopic strut may be used to electrically connect a moveable control surface to a fixed aerofoil structure in an aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2010Date of Patent: December 2, 2014Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventor: Timothy Sanderson
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Publication number: 20140339369Abstract: An edge flap arrangement is provided for an aircraft wing and includes a main flap element and an actuator for moving the main flap element relative to the wing. A linkage arrangement supports the main flap element from the aircraft wing for movement relative to the wing, and includes including a drop hinge link arrangement having a fixed strut secured to the aircraft wing and a drop link secured to the main flap element. The fixed strut and drop link are pivotally connected by a hinge point having a bearing installed therein. The bearing includes an outer race, an inner race and an annular seal assembly snap-fit into the outer race. The annular seal assembly includes first and second annular retaining rings and a resilient ring disposed between the first and second annular retaining rings.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2014Publication date: November 20, 2014Applicant: ROLLER BEARING COMPANY OF AMERICA, INC.Inventor: Alex Habibvand
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Patent number: 8876065Abstract: A flap roller arrangement for supporting a flap on a wing of an aircraft is disclosed herein. The flap roller arrangement includes, but is not limited to, a roller assembly that is configured for rolling engagement with a flap track of the wing and for engagement with a flap fitting. The flap roller arrangement further includes a retaining member that is removably coupled to the roller assembly. The roller assembly is configured to egress through an opening in the flap fitting in a direction away from the flap track. The retaining member is configured to obstruct egress of the roller assembly through the opening when the retaining member is coupled to the roller assembly. The roller assembly is enabled to egress through the opening when the retaining member is removed from the roller assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2011Date of Patent: November 4, 2014Assignee: Gulfstream Aerospace CorporationInventors: James R. Grieco, Gary Pakhlevanyan
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Patent number: 8870125Abstract: A system for pneumatically actuating a split flap hingedly mounted near or at a trailing edge of an airfoil. The system includes a bladder system disposed between the split flap and the upper surface of the airfoil. The split flap is a small-chord (usually 1-3% of total wing chord) long-span lower panel which separates from the airfoil trailing edge by means of a hinge or a flexible lower skin. Deployment of the split flap is actuated pneumatically by the inflatable bladder system. The split flap may exist at a fixed wing trailing edge, a moving flap trailing edge, or an empennage trailing edge. The pneumatic bladder provides distributed force to extend and retract the split flap. This pneumatic approach eliminates extra drag, reduces cost and weight, and lessens flutter concerns.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2011Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Michael A. Balzer, Gregory M. Santini, Michael K. Klein
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Publication number: 20140312176Abstract: A combination comprises an aircraft wing trailing edge section and an adjustment body. The adjustment body comprises a tapered cross section in a local chord axis direction of the wing trailing edge section, a lower adjustment body surface connected to a top surface of the aircraft wing trailing edge section and a back-end surface having a height. The adjustment body is positioned such that the back-end surface is flush with the trailing edge of the aircraft wing trailing edge section. Attaching the adjustment body onto a top surface of the wing trailing edge section leads to compensation of an offset rolling moment due to unavoidable structural shape deviations of the aircraft and eliminates additional structural reinforcement requirements on the trailing edge compared to edge wedges mounted on the bottom surface of trailing edges. The trailing edge section may comprise a flap.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2014Publication date: October 23, 2014Inventors: Adrian Eberle, Tobias Nüssle, Jean Bardou
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Patent number: 8864083Abstract: Concepts and technologies described herein provide for a low noise aircraft wing slat system. According to one aspect of the disclosure, a wing slat is used in conjunction with upper and lower bridging elements to minimize airframe noise associated with a high lift system during takeoff and landing flight operations. An upper bridging element deploys from a slat or an aircraft wing during deployment of the slat for takeoff operations and creates a continuous aerodynamic surface between the slat and an upper surface of the wing leading edge to improve the airflow and reduce drag. A lower bridging element deploys from the wing during cruise flight to bridge a gap between a lower surface of a stowed leading edge slat and a lower surface of the wing. During landing operations, both upper and lower bridging elements remain stowed to optimize ambient airflow for noise abatement and lift creation.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2010Date of Patent: October 21, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Arvin Shmilovich, Yoram Yadlin
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Patent number: 8844878Abstract: A high lift system for an aircraft includes: a main wing, a flap disposed on the main wing of the aircraft that can be adjusted between a retracted position and several extended positions relative to the main wing by way of a flap actuating mechanism and a drive device, a carrier part disposed on the main wing to which the flap actuating mechanism is coupled and relative to which the flap actuating mechanism for adjusting the flap can be moved, where the carrier part is disposed on the main wing by way of a bearing device including an adjusting device with which the orientation of the carrier part relative to the orientation of the main wing can be adjusted.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2008Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventors: Timo Voss, Joachim Loerke
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Patent number: 8844879Abstract: A flexible tip for integration in a wing trailing edge employs a wing structure rear spar. A flexible upper skin is attached at a forward boundary to the spar and a rigid lower skin is interconnected to the flexible upper skin at a rigid tail piece. At least one actuation link is attached to the rigid tail piece and has a hinge at a forward edge of the rigid lower skin. At least one positioning slider is attached to the hinge which is movable from a neutral position to a first extended position urging the hinge aft for rotation of the rigid lower skin upward and flexing of the flexible upper skin in an upward camber and to a second retracted position urging the hinge forward for rotation of the rigid lower skin downward and flexing of the flexible upper skin in a downward camber.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2011Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Gregory M. Santini
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Patent number: 8814082Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an aircraft high lift system with at least one load station for actuating a flap of a wing, preferably a landing flap and/or a leading-edge flap, at least one transmission with transmission portions located between branch transmissions, wherein by means of the branch transmissions actuating energy can be branched off from the transmission to the load station, and to a method for determining an operating condition of an aircraft high lift system.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2010Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: Liebherr-Aerospace Lindenberg GmbHInventors: Bernd Schievelbusch, Bernhard Hauber
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Patent number: 8814100Abstract: A continuous moldline technology elastomeric control surface and methods are presented. A control surface is coupled to a fluid-dynamic body. An elastomer interface is coupled to the control surface and the fluid-dynamic body such that a joint gap caused by movement of the control surface relative to the fluid-dynamic body is filled.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2012Date of Patent: August 26, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Paul F. Geders
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Patent number: 8763953Abstract: An aircraft flap actuator assembly includes at least one fixed support, at least one track having a curvilinear track surface connected to the fixed support, at least one flap support adapted to traverse the curvilinear track surface, a trailing edge flap connected to the at least one flap support and a flap actuator engaging the at least one flap support.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2010Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Seiya Sakurai, James M. Wheaton, Stephen J. Fox
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Patent number: 8763958Abstract: A multi-element airfoil system includes an airfoil element having a leading edge region and a skin element coupled to the airfoil element. A slat deployment system is coupled to the slat and the skin element, and is capable of deploying and retracting the slat and the skin element. The skin element substantially fills the lateral gap formed between the slat and the airfoil element when the slat is deployed. The system further includes an uncoupling device and a sensor to remove the skin element from the gap based on a critical angle-of-attack of the airfoil element. The system can alternatively comprise a trailing edge flap, where a skin element substantially fills the lateral gap between the flap and the trailing edge region of the airfoil element. In each case, the skin element fills a gap between the airfoil element and the deployed flap or slat to reduce airframe noise.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2012Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Travis L. Turner, Mehdi R. Khorrami, David P. Lockard, Martin J. McKenney, Raymond D. Atherley, Reggie T. Kidd
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Patent number: 8763959Abstract: A two element aerofoil, and wing element based thereon, is provided, including a primary aerofoil element including a leading edge of the aerofoil and a secondary aerofoil element including a trailing edge of the aerofoil. A gap is provided between the primary aerofoil element and the secondary aerofoil element. The primary aerofoil element has at least one of a profile, orientation and location with respect to a respective at least one of a profile, orientation and location of the secondary aerofoil element that is configured for minimizing or avoiding accretion of contaminant on the secondary aerofoil element when subjected to an airflow that includes the contaminant, at least at one design set of conditions. A method for designing a two element aerofoil is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2009Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignee: Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd.Inventors: Michael Shepshelovich, Danny Abramov
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Patent number: 8757557Abstract: According to an embodiment disclosed herein, a gurney flap assembly includes an actuator, and a flexible body attaching to the actuator, the body having a downwardly depending flap for moving into and out of an airstream in a pressure side of a wing, wherein the flexible body flexes in reaction to motion of the actuator. This increases the lift force of the rotor blade, wing or aerofoil blade.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2012Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Claverham Ltd.Inventors: Paul R. Brewer, Steven Shorcott, Reg R. Raval
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Publication number: 20140166819Abstract: A flap system for an aircraft includes a flow body, a trailing flap and a movement means. The flow body includes an upper surface and a lower surface, the lower surface having a recess. The movement means is attachable to the flow body and the trailing flap. The trailing flap includes a shape that corresponds to the recess in the lower surface. The movement means is adapted for conducting at least a chordwise movement of the trailing flap such that it is movable out of and into the recess of the flow body in absence of a gap between the leading edge of the trailing flap and the flow body. Thereby, a clear increase in a lift coefficient may be achieved, while at the same time maintaining a low complexity and a high reliability of the flap system.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2013Publication date: June 19, 2014Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBHInventors: Efstratios Saliveros, Hendrik Friedel
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Patent number: 8746625Abstract: Embodiments pertain to a flap adjusting system including a regulating flap mounted on an airfoil using at least two bearing devices and movable relative to the airfoil, and an adjusting device. The adjusting device includes an actuator and adjusting kinematics with a drive rod that couples the actuator to the regulating flap using a first and a second joint, as well as a load sensor. The adjusting kinematics are configured such that, at a maximum adjustment travel of the regulating flap, the second joint between the drive rod and the regulating flap is adjusted by an angle less than 50% of the angle by which the first joint is adjusted. The load sensor is arranged in at least one adjusting device and in the second joint, which couples the drive rod to the regulating flap. The load sensor is configured to measure the forces in this load path.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2012Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventors: Martin Recksiek, Stefan Greif, Robert Schwinn
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Publication number: 20140151510Abstract: An aerodynamic fairing body for an aircraft, a corresponding aircraft and a corresponding method of manufacture for an aerodynamic fairing body are described. The fairing body is configured so as to accommodate a flap adjustment mechanism. Further, the fairing body is configured so as to be arranged at a predetermined distance from an engine of the aircraft, which produces a blast which varies depending on the flight phase. Furthermore, the fairing body is configured so as to be varied in shape in such a way that the fairing body is located outside the blast of the engine permanently. In other words, the fairing body can be varied in shape in such a way that it is located outside the engine blast in any flight phase of the aircraft.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 26, 2013Publication date: June 5, 2014Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBHInventors: Karsten Schroeder, Hendrik Friedel
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Publication number: 20140145039Abstract: A hinged panel operation system is provided having a mechanical linkage assembly coupled between a fixed structure and a trailing edge device. The mechanical linkage assembly has a first link operatively coupled to the trailing edge device, a second link pivotably connected at a first end to the first link and pivotably connected at a second end to a third link, and an eccentric attachment connecting the second link to the third link. The hinged panel operation system further has a hinged panel positioned forward of the trailing edge device and being operatively coupled to the mechanical linkage assembly. The hinged panel is movable by the mechanical linkage assembly between a stowed position and a drooped position. The mechanical linkage assembly provides a load path to the hinged panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 29, 2012Publication date: May 29, 2014Applicant: The Boeing CompanyInventor: The Boeing Company
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Patent number: 8727272Abstract: An apparatus for adjusting a surface of an aircraft model includes, but is not limited to a first linear adjustment unit with a first retaining body that is movable along a first axis, a second linear adjustment unit with a second retaining body that is movable along a second axis, and an angle adjustment unit. The second linear adjustment unit is arranged on the first retaining body, and the angle adjustment unit is arranged on the second retaining body and is configured to adjust and lock an angle between an attachment surface and a retaining surface. Consequently, precise positioning of surfaces of a wind-tunnel aircraft model does not require specially manufactured and individually adapted fittings for each setting position to be moved to.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2012Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventor: Thomas Kuhlmann
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Patent number: 8714493Abstract: A single slotted trailing edge flap arrangement for an aircraft wing, comprising a main flap element and an auxiliary flap element sealed to and supported by the main flap element for movement between a retracted and an extended position relative to the main flap element so as to vary the planform area of the flap. The auxiliary flap element remains sealed to the main flap element when in its extended position, and movement of the auxiliary flap element relative to the main flap element is solely translational. The auxiliary flap element may be translationally deployed from the main flap element by sliding the auxiliary flap element out from the underside of the main flap element. Also, a method of operating the flap arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2010Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventor: Stuart Morris
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Patent number: 8714474Abstract: An aircraft includes at least one net for reducing aerodynamic noise from a structural element of the aircraft. The flexible net associated with the structural element is retractable and capable of occupying at least one position located between the following two end positions: a deployed position, in which the net is placed in a turbulence area, and a retracted position, in which the net is at least partially outside the turbulence area. The net may be automatically moved between positions based on an aircraft parameter such as speed or altitude.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2011Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: Airbus Operations (SAS)Inventors: Jean-François Piet, Stephane Perrin Decroux, Nicolas Molin, Bastien Caruelle
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Patent number: 8695925Abstract: A system is provided for reducing aeroacoustic noise generated by an aircraft having wings equipped with trailing-edge flaps. The system includes a plurality of elastically deformable structures. Each structure is coupled to and along one of the side edges of one of the trailing-edge flaps, and is coupled to a portion of one of the wings that is adjacent to the one of the side edges. The structures elastically deform when the trailing-edge flaps are deployed away from the wings.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2011Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Mehdi R. Khorrami, David P. Lockard, James B. Moore, Ji Su, Travis L. Turner, John C. Lin, Karen M. Taminger, Seun K. Kahng, Scott A. Verden
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Patent number: 8695926Abstract: A gurney flap assembly has an actuator, a flexible or hinged body, the body flexing from a retracted to a deployed position in reaction to motion of the actuator, and a first seal extending along a first edge of the flexible body that flexes from the stowed position. Linear motion of the actuator output is transposed to the gurney flap thereby moving it from a retracted position into the airstream. This trailing edge device will improve airfoil lift.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2012Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignee: Claverham Ltd.Inventors: Paul R. Brewer, Steven Shorcott, Reg R. Raval
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Patent number: 8684316Abstract: A trailing edge flap mechanism incorporates a support beam, a flap carrier beam supporting an aerodynamic flap, a first link interconnecting a first and second rotation points and a second link interconnecting third and fourth rotation points. The support beam has a ground connection on a first fixed axis of rotation. A connecting link has a ground connection on a second fixed axis of rotation and is connected to the first link intermediate the first and second rotation points. An actuator is connected with a drive link pivotally engaged to the first link for initial forward and aft movement of a nose profile of the Fowler flap substantially parallel to the wing lower surface with extending aft movement providing a rapidly changing angle of the flap with respect to the wing upper surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Seiya Sakurai, James M. Wheaton, Stephen J. Fox, Sharon Xiangdong Che
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Patent number: 8662450Abstract: The invention relates to an aircraft opening window comprising at least one pane (2) equipped with a movable frame (3), the assembly comprising the said movable frame (3) and the said at least one pane (2) being movable relative to a fixed frame (1), an element (4) for maneuvering the said movable assembly, a device for locking/unlocking and opening/closing the said movable assembly actuated by the said maneuvering element (4) and means for guiding and supporting the said movable assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2011Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Airbus Operations S.A.S.Inventors: Luc Lamat, Noel Maurens
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Patent number: 8657239Abstract: A Krueger, or leading edge flap, deployable from a lower aerodynamic surface of an aircraft main wing element so as to form a slot between the Krueger and the main wing element when deployed, the deployed Krueger having a leading edge, a trailing edge and upper and lower aerodynamic surfaces extending between the leading edge and the trailing edge, and a flow deflector which provides an effectively divergent flap profile thickness in the downstream direction at or adjacent the Krueger trailing edge so as to direct airflow away from the lower aerodynamic surface of the deployed Krueger towards an upper aerodynamic surface of the main wing element. Also, aircraft wing assembly including a main wing element and the Krueger.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2011Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventors: James Brown, Edmund Kay
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Patent number: 8657238Abstract: A device and methods for low speed performance improvement of a lifting surface assembly are disclosed. At least one vortex generator is coupled to the lifting surface assembly, and the vortex generator is extended through the lifting surface assembly by drooping a hinged leading coupled to the lifting surface assembly to increase lift. The vortex generator is retracted inside the lifting surface assembly to decrease drag.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2011Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Bruce R. Fox, Stephen J. Fox
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Patent number: 8651429Abstract: An aircraft system includes a wing and a trailing edge device coupled to the wing. The trailing edge device is movable relative to the wing, and includes a leading edge and a trailing edge having a center flap portion and a plurality of outer edge portions integrally combined with the center flap portion such that the center flap portion is shorter in width than that of outer edge portions.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventors: Michael J Czech, Russell H. Thomas
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Patent number: 8651428Abstract: An aircraft wing assembly, comprising: a fixed wing portion; a first and second flight control surfaces; a first and second actuators operatively coupled to the first and second flight control surfaces for moving respective first and second flight control surfaces with respect to the fixed wing portion; a control system operatively coupled to the first and second actuators for controlling movement of the first and second flight control surfaces; and a third actuator selectively engaged with the second flight control surface for engaging and moving the second flight control surface out of a path of movement of the first flight control surface only in the event of a failure in the second actuator or its control, so as to avoid direct contact between the first and second flight control surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventor: Simon John Parker
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Patent number: 8651430Abstract: The invention pertains to a spoiler (5) for an aerodynamically active surface of an aircraft (1), particularly for an airfoil of an aircraft, wherein said spoiler is supported on the aerodynamically active surface such that it is articulated about an axis (11) extending transverse to the air flow direction and can be adjusted relative to the air flow. According to the invention, the spoiler features two or more segments (6, 7) that are arranged behind one another referred to the air flow direction and extend transverse to the air flow direction, wherein said segments are connected to one another in an articulated fashion and can be adjusted to different angles referred to the air flow. The successively arranged segments of the spoiler (5) can be actuated, in particular, by means of an actuating device (8, 9, 10) in such a way that the rear segment (7) is adjusted relative to the air flow by a greater angle than the front segment (6).Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2008Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventors: Timo Voss, Joachim Loerke
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Patent number: 8622350Abstract: A small secondary leading edge device, called a compound Krueger vane, works in parallel with a primary device (e.g., a Krueger flap) to delay flow separation on an aircraft wing. The compound Krueger vane is deployed behind a gapped Krueger flap to turn flow ahead of the wing attachment region on the underside of the wing. The compound Krueger vane turns flow that moves forward from the wing lower surface attachment region toward the leading edge of the wing, thereby delaying flow separation on the aircraft wing.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2011Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Robert Hoffenberg
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Patent number: 8616504Abstract: A gurney flap assembly has an actuator and a body. The body has a leading edge and a trailing edge and includes a first panel attaching to the actuator proximate the leading edge, and a second panel attaching to a first hinge at the trailing edge. A second hinge attaches the first and second panel. Linear motion of an actuator output is transposed to the gurney flap, thereby causing the gurney flap to expand and deploy into the airstream on the pressure side of the wing.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2012Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Claverham Ltd.Inventors: Paul R. Brewer, Steven Shorcoll, Reg R. Raval
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Patent number: 8613409Abstract: A trailing edge aerodynamic airfoil of a load-bearing aerodynamic surface of an aircraft of the crocodile type has two airfoil flaps, with each flap being integral in a forward section with a rotational shaft that determines the axis of rotation of the airfoil flap. In a position called the zero setting, the airfoil flaps are essentially joined and form a rear section of the load-bearing surface, and each airfoil flap is movable in translation independently of the other airfoil flap, relative to the load-bearing surface, with each flap being entrained in rotation relative to the load-bearing surface around its axis of rotation by the motion in translation. The ends of the rotational shaft have extensions guided by runners fastened to these ends and acting conjointly with racks fastened to the load-bearing surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2010Date of Patent: December 24, 2013Assignee: Airbus Operations (S.A.S.)Inventors: Olivier Cazals, Thierry Druot
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Patent number: 8602364Abstract: A trailing-edge flap system is described. The trailing-edge flap system includes a trailing-edge flap and a movement device. The movement device includes at least a translatory mover for the translation of the trailing-edge flap and at least a rotational mover for the rotation of the trailing-edge flap.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2012Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventors: Tom Dostmann, Bernhard Schlipf, Jochen Eichhorn