Patent ID: 6209824
Filing Date: 2001-04-03
Classification: B64C,Y02T

Abstract:
A control surface for altering a moldline of a component of an aircraft without forming any gaps or discontinuities at areas where the control surface interfaces with a surface of the component, the control surface comprising:a reinforced elastomer member forming a portion of the surface of the component of the aircraft and having a perimeter attached to the component of the aircraft, the reinforced elastomer member having an elastomer skin containing a plurality of reinforcing members;a spine made of high durometer rubber running through the reinforced elastomer member and containing a plurality of bushings into which the plurality of reinforcing members slide; andan actuation mechanism for moving the reinforced elastomer member from a first position, substantially conforming to the moldline of the component of the aircraft, to a second position, protruding from the moldline of the component of the aircraft without forming discontinuities at an interface between the elastomer member and the component.