Aircraft control mechanism
US11242133B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 22, 2019 |
| Grant date | Feb 8, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 2, 2040 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64C13/28
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A control mechanism includes an existing aerodynamic device, such as a slat 5, that moves between at least one deployed position and a retracted position; and a load-alleviation mechanism 10 arranged to move the aerodynamic device into a load-alleviation position in response to a load 18, such as a gust of wind acting over a predetermined threshold. During flight, an aircraft can experience gusts of wind that cause strain on the wings 4. The addition of a load-alleviation mechanism to a pre-existing aircraft component allows for gust loading to be alleviated without adding significantly to the weight or complexity of the aircraft. The control mechanism may be retro-fitted to existing aircraft.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.