초록 ▼

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a structural transition system for use between an aerodynamic lifting member and an aerodynamic control device attached thereto. The aerodynamic lifting member has an indenture formed therein which is defined by a first shoulder portion. Th

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a structural transition system for use between an aerodynamic lifting member and an aerodynamic control device attached thereto. The aerodynamic lifting member has an indenture formed therein which is defined by a first shoulder portion. The control device has a first end and is disposed within the indenture with the first end adjacent the first shoulder portion. The control device is sized and configured to rotate about a control device axis of rotation for deflecting the control device relative to the lifting member. The structural transition system is provided with a torque transfer element disposable between and in mechanical communication with the first shoulder portion and the first end. The torque transfer element is sized and configured to deform in response to deflection of the control device. The structural transition system is further provided with at least two of support elements distributed between the first shoulder portion and the first end. The support elements are in mechanical communication with the torque transfer element. The support elements are sized and configured to incrementally rotate generally about the control device axis of rotation in response to deformation of the torque transfer element.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A structural transition system for use between an aerodynamic lifting member and an aerodynamic control device attached thereto, the aerodynamic lifting member having an indenture formed therein, the indenture being defined by a first shoulder portion, the control device

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A structural transition system for use between an aerodynamic lifting member and an aerodynamic control device attached thereto, the aerodynamic lifting member having an indenture formed therein, the indenture being defined by a first shoulder portion, the control device having a first end, the control device being disposed within the indenture with the first end disposed adjacent the first shoulder portion, the control device being sized and configured to rotate about a control device axis of rotation for deflecting the control device relative to the lifting member, the structural transition system comprising:a torque transfer element, formed of at least two elongate members, disposable between and in mechanical communication with the first shoulder portion of the lifting member and the first end of the control device, the torque transfer element being sized and configured to deform in response to deflection of the control device; andat least two of support elements distributed between the first shoulder portion and the first end, each of the support elements being in mechanical communication with the torque transfer element, the support elements being sized and configured to incrementally rotate generally about the control device axis of rotation in response to deformation of the torque transfer element.