Brief Description: Improving Wing Leading Edge Bend
I modified the wing assembly fixture so that the leading edge skins could be installed prior to trimming the length. Once the skins were installed, it was apparent that the fit of the skin on the rib was slightly off and would require significant pressure just aft of the leading edge to conform properly. This was due to the pre-bend I put in the skin to assist in bending. To correct the issue, I put the skins back in the bending tool with a foam noodle located as shown in Image 1. This added a slight reduction in the curvature in that area that allows the skin to have a more perfect fit around the rib. Image 2 shows the press brake fully pressing on the reformed skin. Image 3 shows the skin still in the press brake after the press was raised. It takes a fair amount of force to pull the skin up out of the form.
