Variable camber leading edge for an airfoil
US6375126B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 16, 2000 |
| Grant date | Apr 23, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 16, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64C3/50
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A leading edge assembly for an airfoil. The assembly includes a Variable Camber Kreuger (VCK) panel which is hingedly attached at a forward end to a bullnose. Forward and aft suspension links serve to suspend the leading edge assembly within a recessed area in a lower surface of an airfoil in a cruise position. A linkage assembly operably associated with the forward and aft suspension links causes the VCK panel to be rotated from its cruise position into a take-off or a landing position in a manner which prevents scooping of air into the recessed area of the airfoil during this extending movement. A forwardmost edge of the panel overlaps a portion of the bullnose, to thus eliminate the need for a seal at this interface when the assembly is in the landing or the take-off positions. When in the take-off position, a trailing edge of the VCK panel overlaps an upper, forward edge of the airfoil to eliminate the need for a seal at this interface. When in the take-off position, the linkage elements supporting the assembly form a rigid, strong, truss-type load structure, thus requiring a lesser degree of torque to be imparted by an actuator associated with the airfoil to hold the leading e…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.