An aerodynamic control surface assembly includes a structure 2 with an aerodynamic surface 8 and a curved aerodynamic control surface 20 configured to move between extended 240 and a retracted 22 position. An actuation mechanism 252a moves the control surface between positions. The control surface deploys through an aperture 18 (fig.4A) in the aerodynamic surface and into an oncoming airflow in the extended position. The actuation mechanism is configured such that the control surface follows a curved kinematic path 40 (fig.4A) as the control surface moves between positions. The actuation mechanism remains fully behind the aerodynamic surface throughout the movement of the control surface between said positions. The actuation mechanism may comprise a four-bar linkage. The control surface may be non-linear in a direction transverse to oncoming airflow e.g., corrugated. The profile of the control surface may be a blade, with curvature matching a path of variable curvature of the actuation mechanism allowing the aperture in the aerodynamic surface to be substantially the same as the blades maximum thickness. The control surface may be configured as a lift dump spoiler. Also disclosed is an aircraft assembly, and method of controlling an airflow, using a curved aerodynamic control surface as described.
Aerodynamic control surface
07.06.2023
Patent
Elektronische Ressource
Englisch
IPC: | B64C AEROPLANES , Flugzeuge |