Mounting interface for truss structure

Abstract

The invention provides a connector for a mounting interface of a truss structure, a mounting interface on a support device, a mounting system for a truss structure in an aircraft, an aircraft having a fuselage and a wing device, and a method for connecting a truss structure to a support structure, the invention relates to a method for providing an improved connection for a truss structural member to a support structure. The connector includes a body having a first portion and a second portion. A central opening is provided in a body having an inner wall, the central opening configured for receiving a connecting end of a truss member. The first portion and the second portion are concentrically arranged. The first portion has a first circumferential edge section and the second portion has a second circumferential edge section. The first circumferential edge section and the second circumferential edge section are spaced apart by a gap section configured to receive a connecting flange of a support structure. The gap section is a shaped section along a virtual surface curved at least in one direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a connector for a mounting interface of a truss structure, a mounting interface on a support device, a mounting system for a truss structure in an aircraft, an aircraft having a fuselage and a wing device, and a method for connecting a member of a truss structure to a support structure. Background Art

[0002] In aircraft construction, for example, when installing a cabin floor inside a fuselage, a truss structure connected to a fuselage structure, which usually includes frames and stringers carrying the external skin, can be used. In order to mount the truss member to the fuselage structure, interfaces are provided for achieving the necessary load transfer and connection. However, it has been shown that correct alignment and flexibility during assembly may require complex connectors. Summary of the invention

[0003]

[0006] Therefore, it may be desirable to provide improved connections for truss structural members to support structures such as frames and stringers.

[0004] The objects of the invention are solved by the subject-matter of the independent claims; further embodiments are incorporated in the dependent claims. It should be noted that the aspects of the invention described below also apply to a connector for a mounting interface of a truss structure, a mounting interface on a support device, a mounting system for a truss in an aircraft, an aircraft with a fuselage and a wing device, and a method of connecting a member of a truss structure to a support structure.

[0005] According to the present invention, a connector for a mounting interface of a truss structure is provided. The connector includes a body having a first portion and a second portion. A central opening with an inner wall is provided in the body, the central opening being configured to receive a connection end of a truss member. The first portion and the second portion are arranged concentrically. The first portion has a first circumferential edge segment and the second portion has a second circumferential edge segment. The first circumferential edge segment and the second circumferential edge segment are separated by gap segments that are configured to receive a connection flange of a support structure. The gap segments are shaped sections along a virtual surface that is curved in at least one direction.

[0006] As an advantage, the curved virtual surface allows a pivoting movement when engaging with a counterpart. This provides tolerance compensation and improved alignment.

[0007] The curved connection interface is provided with a swivel nut.

[0008] As an example, the advantage of the swivel nut is that the load can be introduced smoothly into the main structure. This also means that corrosion is reduced by a reduction in the bearing pressure of about 80%. In addition, the swivel nut has the advantage of less material passing through an optimized load path similar to the principle of a ridge joint. In addition, a small rotation is allowed to provide tolerance compensation. By providing a curved interconnection surface, a buckling reinforcement is also provided. In addition, a threaded interface can be provided for a threaded and adjustable connection. Another advantage is the choice of the interface as a bonding interface on the main structure. In addition, fewer parts means higher efficiency during assembly and also during maintenance and repair. The interface also takes into account primary insulation. The interface can also be incorporated into frame connectors or channel fittings.

[0009] According to an example, the central opening provided in the body has an internal thread at the inner wall.

[0010] According to an example, the first part and the second part are attachable to each other.

[0011] According to an example, one of the first portion and the second portion includes an opening having an internal attachment thread. The other of the first portion and the second portion includes a protrusion having an external attachment thread to engage the internal attachment thread.

[0012] According to another example, the first part and the second part are integrally formed.The connector is mountable to the mounting interface via an insertion and rotation movement similar to, for example, a bayonet closure.

[0013] According to the present invention, there is also provided a mounting interface on a support device. The interface comprises: a connector according to one of the preceding examples; and a base structure from which a connecting flange portion protrudes, the connecting flange portion being arranged as a section of an interconnecting surface curved in at least one direction. The connecting flange portion is arranged to engage with a gap section of the connector to allow pivotal relative movement between the connector and the base structure.

[0014] According to an example, in a first variant, the interconnection surface is curved in two directions to form a spherical interconnection surface. In a second variant, the interconnection surface is curved in two directions to form an ellipsoidal surface.

[0015] According to the present invention, there is also provided a mounting system for a truss structure in an aircraft. The system comprises at least one mounting interface according to one of the above examples and at least one truss member having a connecting end. The connecting end comprises a coupling end portion for engaging with an inner wall of a connector of the mounting interface.

[0016] According to an example, the central opening provided in the body has an internal thread and the coupling end portion is provided with an external thread.

[0017] According to an example, the threaded bolt includes a first threaded section for engaging with an internal thread of a connector of the mounting interface and a second threaded section for engaging with an internal connecting thread of the truss member.

[0018] As an option, the first thread section has an opposite thread direction than the second thread section.

[0019] According to the invention, an aircraft having a fuselage and a wing device is also provided. At least one of the fuselage and the wing device comprises a main structure having at least one truss member. The truss structure comprises a plurality of truss members connected via joints. At least a portion of the joint is configured as a mounting interface according to one of the above examples.

[0020] According to the present invention, there is also provided a method for connecting a truss structure to a supporting structure. The method comprises the following steps:

[0021] - providing a base structure from which connecting flange portions protrude, the connecting flange portions being arranged as sections of interconnecting surfaces curved at least in one direction;

[0022] - providing a connector comprising a body having a first portion and a second portion; wherein a central opening is provided in the body having an inner wall, the central opening being configured to receive a connection end of a truss member; wherein the first portion and the second portion are concentrically arranged; wherein the first portion has a first circumferential edge segment and the second portion has a second circumferential edge segment; wherein the first circumferential edge segment and the second circumferential edge segment are separated by a gap segment, the gap segment being configured to receive a connection flange of a support structure; and wherein the gap segment is a shaped section along a virtual surface that is curved in at least one direction;

[0023] - providing a truss member comprising a connection end; wherein the connection end comprises a coupling end portion for engaging with an inner wall of a connector of a mounting interface; and

[0024] - Insert the coupling end part into the central opening.

[0025] According to one aspect, a hybrid joint is provided that provides a bending-rigid connection with tolerance capability in the Y direction of an aircraft. Buckling stiffeners for the swivel nuts are used to create a combination with two spine joint nuts to create a swivel connection for tolerance compensation of a bending-rigid attachment, preferably for structural attachments like floor struts or beams. The attachment bolts / screws may be hollow and may be modified in terms of bending stiffness.

[0026] The opportunity for the locking bolt to move downwards allows movement to the correct position and then finally locks in the correct position. Thus, a device with bonding tolerance compensation is provided.

[0027] The swivel nut provides a threaded interface for a threaded and adjustable connection. As an option, a spring lock can be used as a light anti-rotation device.

[0028] In the example, in the case where the nut must hold torque, a form-fit anti-rotation device is provided. As an option, this form-fit locking can have a defined float.

[0029] According to one aspect, the rotation interface for the screw is provided on the channel fitting with an integrated so-called bubble interface.

[0030] Among the options, a swivel connection is provided for tolerance compensation of the truss structure. In the example, the double bubble interface allows the design of a complete sheet metal capable of handling high loads. In the example, the double bubble bracket connects the seat rails, cross beams, tie-down points and provides metering angles and vertical connector brackets.

[0031] According to one aspect, a connector is provided having a curved load transfer portion that allows pivot compensation. A threaded central hole may be provided in the connector. The hole allows for improved installation workflow and increased adjustability.

[0032] These and other aspects of the invention will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiments described hereinafter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the following drawings:

[0034] Figure 1a An example of a base structure is shown; Figure 1b Shown in Figure 1a An example of a first portion of a connector in the context of a base structure; Figure 1c Shows Figure 1b An example of a first part together with a second part of a connector.

[0035] Figure 2 An example of a mounting interface is shown.

[0036] Figure 3 A cross section through an aircraft having a fuselage and a wing arrangement is shown.

[0037] Figure 4 The basic steps of an example of a method for connecting a member of a truss structure to a supporting structure are shown.

[0038] Figure 5a An example of a mounting system in an alignment or pre-installation stage is shown in vertical cross-section; Figure 5b Shows Figure 5a The installation status.

[0039] Figure 6a Another example of a mounting system is shown in vertical cross-section in an alignment or pre-installation stage; Figure 6b Shows Figure 6a The installation status.

[0040] Figure 7a Still another example of a mounting system is shown in vertical cross-section in an alignment or pre-installation stage; Figure 7b Shows Figure 7a The installation status.

[0041] Figure 8a Still another example of a mounting system is shown in vertical cross-section in an alignment or pre-installation stage; Figure 8b Shows Figure 8a The installation status.

[0042] Figure 9a Another example of a mounting system is shown in vertical cross-section in an alignment or pre-installation stage; Figure 9b Shows Figure 9a The installation status.

[0043] Fig.10a An example of a mounting system in an alignment or pre-installation stage is shown in vertical cross-section; Fig.10b Shows Fig.10a Another installation step for the example; Fig.10c Shows Fig.10a Another installation step for the example; Fig.10d Shows Fig.10a The installation status.

[0044] Fig.11 An example of a connection point for a support of a cabin floor connected to a frame of a fuselage is shown in vertical cross section.

[0045] Fig.12 Another example of a mounting system is shown in vertical cross-section.

[0046] Fig.13 Yet another example of a mounting system is shown in vertical cross-section.

[0047] Fig.14 An example of a connection point for a support of a cabin floor connected to a frame of a fuselage is shown in vertical cross section.

[0048] Fig.15 An example of a sheet-like preform for a base structure to be added to a fuselage structure is shown.

[0049] Fig.16 The folded structure is shown when used to form a mounting system. Fig.15.

[0050] Fig.17 Another example of a sheet-like preform for a base structure to be added to a fuselage structure is shown.

[0051] Fig.18 The folded structure is shown when used to form a mounting system. Fig.17 .

[0052] Fig.19 An example of a support for a cabin floor in an aircraft fuselage is shown in vertical cross-section. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Certain embodiments will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, the same reference numerals are used for the same elements even in different drawings. The contents defined in the specification, such as detailed construction and elements, are provided to help fully understand the exemplary embodiments. In addition, well-known functions or constructions are not described in detail because they would make the embodiments unclear due to unnecessary details. In addition, expressions such as "at least one of" when preceding a list of elements modify the entire list of elements rather than modifying the individual elements in the list.

[0054] A connector 10 is provided for use with a mounting interface for a truss structure. The connector 10 includes a body having a first portion 12, the first portion 12 being Figure 1b The connector 10 also includes a Figure 1c The second part 14 is shown as the lower part. A central opening 16 is provided in the body having an inner wall 18, see Figure 1c , the central opening 16 is configured for receiving the connecting end of the truss member. The first part 12 and the second part 14 are arranged concentrically. The first part 12 has a first peripheral edge section 20, and the second part 14 has a second peripheral edge section 22. The first peripheral edge section 20 and the second peripheral edge section 22 are separated by a gap section 24, which is configured to receive a connecting flange 26 of the support structure indicated for better understanding. The gap section 24 is a shaped section along an imaginary surface that is curved in at least one direction.

[0055] Figure 1a An example of a base structure 11 is shown which will be explained further below. The base structure 11 is shown with a connecting flange portion 13 which projects as a section of an interconnecting surface which is curved at least in one direction. A central opening or hole 15 is shown, which is indicated by the axis 17. The connecting flange portion 13 is an example of the connecting flange 26 mentioned above.

[0056] Figure 1b Shown in Figure 1a An example of a first part 12 of a connector in the context of a base structure 11 .

[0057] Figure 1c Shows Figure 1b 1 and 12 together with an example of a second portion 14 of the connector 10.

[0058] It is worth noting that, for better understanding, in addition to the connector 10, Figure 1a to Figure 1c A base structure 11 is also shown.

[0059] The term "connector" refers to an intermediate portion or component that is mounted to a supporting base structure for load bearing and load transfer purposes. The truss members are then attached to the connector. Thus, the connector acts as an adapter between the base structure and the truss members.

[0060] The first and second parts are arranged as a washer-shaped plate forming a gap in at least some circumferential portions. In an example, a continuously extending gap is formed. The gap is not planar in shape but curved in at least one direction.

[0061] The first portion may also be referred to as an upper portion.

[0062] The second portion may also be referred to as a lower portion.

[0063] The term "concentrically" refers to an arrangement that is aligned with a central opening.

[0064] The term "edge segment" refers to an example having separated segments, ie, an edge with gaps between edge segments or an example having a continuous edge.

[0065] exist Figure 1c In an exemplary embodiment, the first portion 12 and the second portion 14 can be attached to each other.

[0066] The term "attachable" refers to any form of holding two parts together, whether releasably or non-releasably.

[0067] The first part 12 and the second part 14 are provided with an interlocking connection, such as a threaded connection, a clamping connection, a snap-on / snap-on connection or any other form-fitting connection.

[0068] In another example, the first part 12 and the second part 14 are provided with a bonded or glued connection.

[0069] In yet another example, the first portion 12 and the second portion 14 are provided with a changing connection like a rivet connection, wherein a pressing force changes the interface of the first portion 12 with the second portion 14 to securely attach the two portions to each other.

[0070] exist Figure 1c In an exemplary embodiment of the embodiment of the present invention, one of the first and second parts, for example the first part 12, comprises an opening, such as the opening 16, having an internal attachment thread 28, see also Figure 1b The other of the first and second parts, for example the first part 12 , includes a protrusion 30 having an outer attachment thread 32 to engage the inner attachment thread 28 .

[0071] In the example, the first portion 12 forms an upper nut and the second portion 14 forms a lower nut.

[0072] In an option, the portion having the internal attachment thread, such as the first portion 12, is provided with an edge projection 34 to provide an extended threaded portion towards one or both sides.

[0073] In another option, not shown in detail, the first part 12 and the second part 14 are integrally formed.The connector 10 can be mounted to the mounting interface via an insertion and turning movement similar to a bayonet closure.

[0074] In an option, the central opening 16 provided in the body has an internal thread 36 at the inner wall 18 .

[0075] This provides a secure connection as well as length adjustment.

[0076] However, in a simplified option, the connection is a bonded connection in which the linear member is inserted into the opening and twisted to lock against being pulled out or pushed in further (see below).

[0077] In an option not shown in further detail, the interconnecting surface is provided as a half-shell structure. For example, the interconnecting surface is provided as a barrel-shaped segment, such as a cylinder-shaped segment.

[0078] The mounting interface may be referred to as an interface. The mounting interface may also be referred to as a connector.

[0079] In an example, the base structure is the primary structure of the aircraft.

[0080] exist Figure 1c In another option shown in , the interconnect surface is curved in two directions to form a spherical interconnect surface.

[0081] In yet another option, the interconnect surface is curved in two directions to form an ellipsoidal surface.

[0082] In an example, the interconnected surfaces form parts of a sphere.

[0083] In another example, the interconnect surface forms an egg-shaped portion.

[0084] In an option, the connector 10 is held to the base structure in a rotatable manner about an axis, such as axis 17, aligned with the internal threads.

[0085] In an option, the rotation may be blocked in a temporary manner. For example, a releasable form-fitting locking element blocks the rotation, such as an inserted pin or bolt.

[0086] In an example, the base structure is a tube of a truss structure, and the curved shape of the interconnecting surface has a center point aligned with a neutral fiber of the tube of the truss structure.

[0087] In an option, the mounting interface is provided with a tolerance compensator by being adjustable in at least one pivoting direction. As an additional option, which may also be omitted, adjustability is also provided in a load bearing direction aligned with the longitudinal axis of the mounted truss member (see also below).

[0088] The mounting interface provides a rotational connection with a sheet or flange member comprising a structure such as a fuselage frame in a fuselage.

[0089] An interface is provided which is suitable for any type of sheet metal portion of the primary structure, such as a frame or a stringer, to provide a load introduction joint for connecting truss structural members.

[0090] Figure 2 An example of a mounting interface 50 on a support device is shown. The interface 50 comprises a connector 10 according to the above and below examples. Furthermore, the interface 50 comprises a base structure 52, such as the base structure 11, from which a connecting flange portion 54, such as the connecting flange portion 13, protrudes, the connecting flange portion 54 being arranged as a section of an interconnecting surface that is curved at least in one direction. The connecting flange portion 54 is arranged to engage with the gap section 24 of the connector 10 to allow a pivoting relative movement between the connector 10 and the base structure 52.

[0091] The intersection 19 of the vertical axis 17 and the horizontal axis 21 indicates the rotation point of the pivoting movement. The possible movements and tolerance compensations are indicated by the double arrow 56.

[0092] The free space between the projection 34 and the edge of the connecting flange portion 54 allows for the pivoting movement.

[0093] Due to the central opening, tolerance compensation along the connection direction is also provided. The central opening allows the installation and adjustment of the truss structural member.

[0094] Figure 3A cross section through an aircraft 200 having a fuselage 202 and a wing assembly 204 is shown. At least one of the fuselage 202 and the wing assembly 204 comprises a primary structure, and at least one truss structure is arranged to be connected to the primary structure. The truss structure comprises a plurality of truss members connected via joints. At least a portion of the joint is arranged as a mounting interface 50 according to one of the above and below examples.

[0095] Figure 3 An aircraft engine 206 is shown mounted to the wing structure 204. A cabin space 208 is provided inside the fuselage 202. The cabin space 208 is separated from the cargo space 210 by a cabin floor 212. The cabin floor 212 is supported by support columns 214, which rest on frames 216 of the fuselage 202 via mounting interfaces 50.

[0096] Figure 4 The basic steps of an example of a method 300 for connecting a member of a truss structure to a support structure are shown. The method 300 includes the following steps:

[0097] - In a first step 302, a base structure is provided, from which connecting flange parts protrude, the connecting flange parts being arranged as sections of interconnecting surfaces curved at least in one direction.

[0098] - In a second step 304, a connector is provided comprising a body having a first portion and a second portion. A central opening is provided in the body having an inner wall, the central opening being configured to receive a connection end of a truss member. The first portion and the second portion are arranged concentrically. The first portion has a first circumferential edge segment and the second portion has a second circumferential edge segment. The first circumferential edge segment and the second circumferential edge segment are separated by a gap segment, the gap segment being configured to receive a connection flange of a support structure. The gap segment is a shaped section along a virtual surface that is curved in at least one direction.

[0099] - In a third step 306, a truss member comprising a connection end is provided. The connection end comprises a coupling end portion for engagement with an inner wall of a connector of the mounting interface.

[0100] - In a fourth step 308, the coupling end portion is inserted into the central opening.

[0101] Figure 5a An example of a mounting system 100 for a truss structure in an aircraft is shown in vertical cross-section in an alignment or pre-installation stage. Figure 5b Shows Figure 5aThe mounting system 100 includes at least one example of a mounting interface 50 according to one of the above and below examples. The mounting system 100 includes at least one truss member 102 having a connection end 104. The connection end 104 includes a coupling end portion 106 for engaging with the inner wall 18 of the connector 10 of the mounting interface 50.

[0102] The mounting system 100 may also be referred to as a connection device or a joint structure. The mounting system 100 may also be referred to as a system.

[0103] exist Figure 5a In the option shown in , the central opening 18 provided in the body has an internal thread and the coupling end portion 106 is provided with an external thread 108 .

[0104] The truss members 102 may be provided with tapered ends 110 for easier insertion into the central opening 18 .

[0105] Figure 5a The steps for inserting the truss member 102 are shown. Figure 5b The twisting motion is indicated by the rotating arrow.

[0106] Figure 6a Another example of a mounting system 100 is shown in vertical cross-section in an alignment or pre-installation stage. Figure 6b Shows Figure 6a A pair of rotation arrows indicate the option of rotating both the truss member 102 and the connector 10.

[0107] Figure 7a Yet another example of a mounting system 100 is shown in vertical cross-section in an alignment or pre-installation stage; Figure 7b Shows Figure 7a The truss member 102 is provided as an H-shaped profile 112. The end adapter 114 is provided with a threaded insert. By rotating the end adapter 114, a connection with a connector is provided. The tubular shape 116 indicates the main structure.

[0108] In an option, a nut portion with an internal connection thread is provided at the truss member. The connection end is mounted to the truss member via a threaded connection. The connection end is provided as a threaded bolt.

[0109] In an example, a threaded bolt is screwed into the truss member, and for connection, the threaded bolt is gradually rotationally extended toward the central opening and then engaged with the internal threads to be mounted to the connector.

[0110] In an option, the threaded bolt includes a first threaded section for engaging with an internal thread of a connector of the mounting interface and a second threaded section for engaging with an internal connecting thread of a truss member. As an additional option, the first threaded section has a thread direction opposite to that of the second threaded section.

[0111] As an option, threads with a low thread pitch are available to create a self-locking threaded connection.

[0112] In the case of a reverse orientation providing a double threaded bolt, a double travel height or lift distance is provided, for example compensating for a low thread pitch.

[0113] When the connector of the mounting interface is held in a rotatable manner, rotation of the connector causes displacement of the threaded bolt in the longitudinal direction, thereby providing an option for length adjustment.

[0114] In an option, the truss member includes a mounting adapter rotatably retained in the truss member for engaging the threaded bolt;

[0115] When the connector of the mounting interface is held in a rotatable manner, rotation of the connector causes displacement of the threaded bolt in the longitudinal direction, thereby providing an option for length adjustment.

[0116] In the example, the base structure is a fuselage construction member in the group comprising frames and stringers. A truss member is a part of the supporting structure for mounting the cabin floor inside the fuselage.

[0117] In a preferred example, the fuselage construction member is a frame section.The curved interconnecting surface is provided, for example, by roll forming in an upper flange member of the frame section.

[0118] In another example, the base structure is provided as a mating part connected to a fuselage construction member like a frame section.The curved interconnecting surface is provided for example by folding over a sheet or by roll forming or by extruding the mating part.

[0119] Figure 8a Another example of a mounting system 100 is shown in vertical cross-section in an alignment or pre-installation stage; Figure 8b Shows Figure 8a The truss member 102 is provided with a pipe profile interface 118 with a tapered end section. An insert 120 is provided to allow a connecting bolt 122 to be connected to the connector, for example by a screwing movement. The insert 122 can be fixed or can also be rotatable.

[0120] Figure 9a Another example of a mounting system 100 is shown in vertical cross-section in an alignment or pre-installation stage; Figure 9b Shows Figure 9a As an additional adjustment option, the connector 10 can be arranged to be rotatable. A locking element 124 such as a pin can be provided for the assembly process.

[0121] Fig.10a An example of a mounting system 100 is shown in vertical cross-section in an alignment or pre-installation stage; Fig.10b Shows Fig.10a Another installation step for the example; Fig.10c Shows Fig.10a Another installation step for the example; Fig.10d Shows Fig.10a An insert 126 is provided that can be inserted and then rotated. For example, the insert has external threads and the end portion of the truss member has internal threads. An insert rotation locking member 128 may be provided for a simpler installation.

[0122] Fig.11 An example of a connection point for a support of a cabin floor connected to a frame of a fuselage is shown in vertical cross section. A vertical strut 130 is shown as a coupler 132 mounted to a roll-formed frame 134. As an example, the interface is a plastic formed interface forming a curved engagement surface (indicated by a dashed circle 136 for mounting an example of a connector 10). The coordinate index illustrates the Z and Y axes of the aircraft.

[0123] Fig.12 Another example of a mounting system is shown in vertical cross-section. A vertical post 140 is mounted to an example 142 of a swivel joint, ie a connector 10 providing a channel fitting.

[0124] Fig.13 Yet another example of a mounting system is shown in vertical cross-section.Vertical struts 144 are mounted to a base structure via examples 146 of connectors.

[0125] Fig.14 An example of connection points for supports of the cabin floor connected to the frame of the fuselage is shown in vertical cross section. Vertical struts 148 are mounted to the frame 150 via examples of connectors 10. The base structure may be configured as a channel fitting 152 attached to the frame 150.

[0126] Fig.15 An example of a sheet preform for a base structure to be added to a fuselage structure is shown. A sheet metal portion 154 comprises a first triangular portion and a second triangular portion 156 which can be folded over. A gap 158 is provided on both lateral sides, separating a first ear-like structure and a second ear-like structure 160. An opening 162 is also shown.

[0127] Fig.16The folded structure is shown when used to form a mounting system. Fig.15 The vertical struts 164 are mounted to the channel fittings 166 created by the folded-over sheet metal portion 154 .

[0128] Fig.17 Another example of a sheet preform for a base structure to be added to a fuselage structure is shown. The sheet metal part 168 comprises a first lateral part and a second lateral part 170 which can be folded over. A first gap 172 and a second gap 174 are provided on both lateral sides, separating the upper first ear-like structure and the upper second ear-like structure 176 and the lower first ear-like structure and the lower second ear-like structure 178. An opening 180 is also provided.

[0129] Fig.18 The folded structure is shown when used to form a mounting system. Fig.17 The vertical struts 182 are mounted to the dual interface 184 created by the folded-over sheet metal portion 168 .

[0130] The incorporation of the system interface increases the rigidity against rapid lateral decompression. The lower bubble bracket connects the vertical connector sheet metal bracket, the lower metering piece, the lower tie-down device, and the sheet metal frame. The bracket can also be incorporated into the sheet metal frame or the sheet metal connector.

[0131] Fig.19 An example of a support 186 for a cabin floor 188 in an aircraft fuselage is shown in vertical cross section. The support comprises a vertical beam 190 which is connected at its upper end to the cabin floor 188 and at its lower end to a frame 192 of the fuselage. Since the connector is rather small, a longer extension of the vertical beam 190 is provided to allow more installation space 194 for infrastructure on the aircraft.

[0132] The mounting system is suitable for a truss structure, which is generally a lightweight structure. The mounting interface for the truss structure, for example, with the primary structure allows a swivel connection. The weight impact of the primary structure is minimized by the secondary structure interface. In an example, the mounting interface provides a swivel interface adapter for adhesive or threaded connection to allow an extendable rod body. The mounting interface can be configured as a structural reinforcement for the primary structure, the mounting interface being thus optimized for such attachment.

[0133] It must be noted that embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to different subject matters. In particular, some embodiments are described with reference to method type claims, while other embodiments are described with reference to apparatus type claims. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art from the above description and the following description that, unless otherwise indicated, any combination of features related to different subject matters, in addition to any combination of features belonging to one type of subject matter, is also considered to be disclosed by the present application. However, all features can be combined to provide synergistic effects that exceed the simple superposition of features.

[0134] Although the present invention is illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and the foregoing description, such illustration and description are to be considered illustrative or exemplary rather than restrictive. The present invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Other variations of the disclosed embodiments may be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention by studying the drawings, the disclosure, and the dependent claims.

[0135] In the claims, the word "comprising" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the indefinite article "a" or "an" does not exclude a plurality. A single processor or other unit may fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims should not be construed as limiting the scope.

Claims

1. A connector (10) for use in a mounting interface of a truss structure, the connector comprising a body, the body having: Part I (12); and Part II (14); in, A central opening (16) with an inner wall (18) is provided in the body, the central opening (16) being configured to receive a connecting end of a truss member; wherein the first portion and the second portion are arranged concentrically; wherein the first portion has a first circumferential edge segment (20) and the second portion has a second circumferential edge segment (22); wherein the first circumferential edge segment and the second circumferential edge segment are separated by a gap segment (24) configured to receive a connecting flange of a support structure; and Therein, the gap section is a shaped section along a virtual surface that is curved in at least one direction.

2. The connector according to claim 1, wherein: The central opening provided in the body has internal threads (36) located at the inner wall.

3. The connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first portion and the second portion are attachable to each other.

4. The connector according to claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein: One of the first portion and the second portion includes an opening having internal attachment threads (28); and The other of the first portion and the second portion includes a protrusion (30) having an external attachment thread to engage the internal attachment thread.

5. Connector according to one of the preceding claims, wherein The first portion and the second portion are integrally formed; and Therein, the connector can be mounted to the mounting interface via an insertion and rotation movement similar to a bayonet closure.

6. A mounting interface (50) on a support device, the mounting interface comprising: Connector (10) according to one of the preceding claims; as well as a base structure (52) from which a connecting flange portion (54) projects, the connecting flange portion being arranged as a section of interconnected surfaces curved at least in one direction; Wherein, the connecting flange portion is arranged to engage with the gap section of the connector to allow pivotal relative movement between the connector and the base structure.

7. The interface according to claim 6, wherein: The interconnecting surface is curved in two directions to form: Spherical interconnecting surfaces; or Ellipsoidal surface.

8. The interface according to claim 6 or 7, wherein: The connector is held to the base structure in a rotatable manner about an axis aligned with the internal thread.

9. An interface according to claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein: The mounting interface provides a tolerance compensator by being adjustable in at least one pivot direction; and Therein, preferably also adjustability is provided in a load bearing direction aligned with the longitudinal axis of the mounted truss member.

10. A mounting system (100) for a truss structure in an aircraft, the system comprising: At least one mounting interface (50) according to one of claims 6 to 9; as well as at least one truss member (102) having a connecting end (104); Wherein, the connection end includes a coupling end portion (106) for engaging with the inner wall of the connector of the mounting interface.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein: The central opening provided in the body has an internal thread, and the coupling end portion is provided with an external thread (108).

12. The system according to claim 10 or 11, wherein: A nut portion with an internal connection thread is provided at the truss member; wherein the connection end is mounted to the truss member via a threaded connection; and Wherein, the connecting end is configured as a threaded bolt.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein: The threaded bolt includes a first threaded section for engaging the internal threads of the connector of the mounting interface and a second threaded section for engaging the internal connecting threads of the truss member; and Preferably, the first thread section has a thread direction opposite to that of the second thread section.

14. An aircraft (200) having a fuselage (202) and a wing assembly (204), wherein: At least one of the fuselage and the wing device comprises a primary structure, and wherein at least one truss structure connected to the primary structure is provided; wherein the truss structure comprises a plurality of truss members connected via joints; and Wherein, at least a portion of the joint is configured as a mounting interface (50) according to one of claims 6 to 9.

15. A method (300) for connecting a truss structure to a support structure, the method comprising the steps of: providing (302) a base structure from which a connecting flange portion projects, the connecting flange portion being arranged as a section of interconnected surfaces curved in at least one direction; A connector is provided (304) comprising a body having a first portion and a second portion; wherein a central opening is provided in the body having an inner wall, the central opening being configured to receive a connection end of a truss member; wherein the first portion and the second portion are concentrically arranged; wherein the first portion has a first circumferential edge segment and the second portion has a second circumferential edge segment; wherein the first circumferential edge segment and the second circumferential edge segment are separated by a gap segment, the gap segment being configured to receive a connection flange of a support structure; and wherein the gap segment is a shaped section along a virtual surface that is curved in at least one direction; providing (306) a truss member comprising a connecting end; wherein the connecting end comprises a coupling end portion for engaging the inner wall of the connector of the mounting interface; and The coupling end portion is inserted (308) into the central opening.

Images