Extendable wings are very important for a design that is adaptable to different and wide-ranging operating conditions. However, the problem encountered when utilizing a telescoping mechanism is that the surface of the extended wing has unevenness and/or bumps at the gaps between the different telescoping sections, partitioned off by supporting structures within the wing, which results in lapses in aerodynamic performance. This invention suggests a joining mechanism between the different sections through mechanisms that make use of zippers or velcro.
Figure (1)It is a schematic diagram showing front view of sections of telescopic wing in a locked state 140, 142, are in an open position such that they do not obstruct movement of the telescopic sections.
Creating a spanwise extensible airplane wing or wind blade etc., is of interest both from the point of increasing performance and endurance. However, the challenge to extending the tip of an airplane wing or a wind turbine blade or a helicopter blade is the loss in aerodynamic performance due to discontinuities or bumps at the joint created at the extension. Thus, this invention tries to provide a method of attachment to make sure that the extended wing has a smooth surface.
Advantages of Extendable Wings: Wings are designed to give the best aerodynamic performance for a limited range of operating conditions. Thus extendable wings are important for optimal performance across the much wider actual range of operating conditions. For example:
- In airplanes , a large wingspan is preferable while cruising at high altitudes, but not while taking off or landing the airplane or when the airplane is being parked in a hangar to minimize space.
- In helicopters, longer wings have a larger surface area which is preferable in certain conditions, while shorter wings are preferable in others
- In wind turbines, having varied wing length is advantageous since the performance of a wing of fixed design is sub-optimal.
- Better Aerodynamic Performance: Split lines caused by the I shaped support structures inside wings. If allowed to remain uncovered, would perturb the flow over the wing and hamper aerodynamic performance which makes the joining mechanism important
Innovative Attachment Mechanism:
- Zipper Mechanism: A zipper is attached to the top edge of the extending section, and the zipper teeth lock together as the wing extends outwards
- Velcro Mechanism: An alternative method involves a roller and wedge mechanism which joins different sections together with velcro strips
The invention describes a functional prototype system consisting of a main wing with fixed I-shaped spars, and a split telescopic extension made of leading-edge, mid-chord, and trailing-edge sections. These sections can be extended and then locked using rigid links or mechanisms like zippers or Velcro strips to form a continuous aerodynamic surface, implying a demonstrable physical or conceptual model.
Demonstration and/or validation in lab environment (TRL 4)
4
The invention can enhance fuel efficiency, maneuverability, and storage of aircraft, leading to reduced environmental impact and operational costs. It also opens up new avenues in smart aviation technologies and renewable energy (via wind turbines), ultimately benefiting both civilian and defense sectors by optimizing aerodynamic performance without structural compromise.
These methods can be applied to aircrafts, helicopters and wind turbines, where creating a feasible extendable wing mechanism can lead to better performance across different operating conditions.
Geography of IP
Type of IP
202121009166
512194