17937971. TUBULAR WING STRUCTURES AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE simplified abstract (The Boeing Company)

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TUBULAR WING STRUCTURES AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE

Organization Name

The Boeing Company

Inventor(s)

Jonathan Gabrys of Downington PA (US)

Megan Prucnal of Wallingford PA (US)

Kevin Michael Drayer of Media PA (US)

Daniel Stephen Kraynik of West Chester PA (US)

TUBULAR WING STRUCTURES AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE - A simplified explanation of the abstract

This abstract first appeared for US patent application 17937971 titled 'TUBULAR WING STRUCTURES AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURE

Simplified Explanation

The abstract describes a wing structure with a unitary body formed by tubular sections arranged side-by-side, creating internal spar structures that eliminate the need for non-integral spars or fasteners. The structure can be overwrapped with composite material for added strength.

  • Tubular sections arranged side-by-side
  • Internal spar structures created by adjacent walls of tubular sections
  • Eliminates need for non-integral spars or fasteners
  • Can be overwrapped with composite material for additional strength

Potential Applications

The technology could be applied in aircraft manufacturing, specifically in the construction of wings for airplanes and drones.

Problems Solved

This innovation eliminates the need for additional spars and fasteners in wing structures, simplifying the manufacturing process and reducing weight.

Benefits

The unitary body design reduces weight and complexity in wing structures, potentially leading to improved fuel efficiency and performance in aircraft.

Potential Commercial Applications

This technology could be utilized by aircraft manufacturers looking to streamline production processes and enhance the performance of their products.

Possible Prior Art

There may be prior art related to composite materials used in aircraft wing structures, but the specific design of a unitary body formed by tubular sections creating internal spar structures may be a novel approach.

Unanswered Questions

How does this technology impact the overall cost of manufacturing aircraft wings?

The article does not provide information on the cost implications of implementing this technology in aircraft wing production.

What are the potential challenges in integrating this design into existing aircraft manufacturing processes?

The article does not address any potential challenges that may arise when incorporating this innovative wing structure design into current aircraft manufacturing practices.


Original Abstract Submitted

A wing structure having a unitary body formed by a plurality of tubular sections that are arranged side-by-side and configured such that adjacent internal walls of the tubular sections create internal spar structures that substantially reduce or eliminate the need for non-integral spars, or for fasteners to attach conventional spars and ribs into the wing skins. The unitized structure formed by the plurality of tubular sections can be further overwrapped with a composite material to provide additional strength to the wing structure.