Trailing edge split flap with pneumatic actuation

US8870125B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The Boeing Company · US

Inventors

• Michael A. Balzer · Bellevue, US
• Gregory M. Santini · Bothell, US
• Michael Klein · Bielefeld, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 21, 2011
• Grant date: Oct 28, 2014
• Expiry date: Oct 1, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02T50/40
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

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.