System, aircraft including same, and related methods

Abstract

Systems, aircraft including the same, and related methods are disclosed. The presently disclosed sliding joint kits, sliding joints, and systems including the sliding joint kits and sliding joints may be configured to connect together a first panel and a second panel such that at least a portion of the first panel and the second panel are in sliding contact with each other, thereby allowing movement of one panel relative to the other. In this manner, the panels may be connected together while still allowing thermal expansion and resulting movement of one panel relative to the other. For example, the presently disclosed sliding joints may be used to join panels of an aircraft heat shield together, which may result in reduced warpage and / or reduced joint stress of the panels of the heat shield.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the Chinese invention patent application "System, aircraft including the system and related methods" with an application date of July 19, 2017, a priority date of July 27, 2016 and an application number of 201710595275.8. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to sliding joint kits, systems including the same, aircraft including the same, and related methods. Background Art

[0003] Aircraft and other vehicles typically include a heat shield positioned near the engine to protect other parts of the aircraft from the heat from the engine. The heat shield is typically made of one or more panels (e.g., composite, metal, and / or ceramic panels) connected together. Exhaust gas from the engine heats these heat shields, which in turn causes thermal expansion of the panels of the heat shield. When the panels connected together thermally expand at different rates (e.g., due to the molded shape of the panels, the position of the panels relative to the engine, etc.), undesirable warping may be observed in one or more panels. For example, a typical heat shield may include a first panel riveted to a second panel. Because the panels are typically riveted together so that the panels are constrained on all sides, warping occurs when the second panel thermally expands relative to the first panel. In addition, such warping may cause stress at the joints, which may reduce the fatigue life of the heat shield, and / or may potentially cause crack initiation along the panels of the heat shield. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The presently disclosed sliding joint kit can be used to slidably connect one or more panels together to form a sliding joint, thereby allowing for different rates of thermal expansion between the panels. For example, the sliding joint can be configured to allow a second panel to thermally expand relative to a first panel, so that the second panel slides relative to the first panel as it expands. Such a sliding joint and a system including the sliding joint can thereby reduce warping of connected panels (such as those used in aircraft heat shields), prevent or reduce stress at fastened joints, and / or improve fatigue life. At the same time, the presently disclosed sliding joint can be configured to maintain contact between a portion of the panels at the joint (this contact is sometimes referred to as "clamp-up") to prevent hot air from entering the interior of the heat shield cavity and / or prevent vibration of the panels of the heat shield.

[0005] An example of a sliding joint kit for connecting a first panel to a second panel according to the present disclosure includes a washer having a central hole and a lower flange surface, and a fastener extending through the central hole of the washer. The sliding joint kit is configured to be assembled to connect the first panel and the second panel so that the fastener and the washer are fixed relative to the second panel, and so that the washer and the second panel are in sliding contact with the first panel. For example, the washer is typically arranged relative to the first panel so that the lower flange surface faces the first outer surface of the first panel, wherein the washer is configured to slide relative to the first panel. The first panel may include a first inner surface opposite the first outer surface, wherein when the sliding joint kit is assembled, the second inner surface of the second panel is in sliding contact with the first inner surface of the first panel. The fastener includes a first head portion configured to engage the second panel, thereby fixing the fastener and the washer relative to the second panel. When assembled, the sliding joint is configured to accommodate different thermal expansion coefficients between the second panel and the first panel.

[0006] An example of a related method of connecting a first panel to a second panel according to the present disclosure includes positioning a first portion of a first inner surface of the first panel so that it faces and is adjacent to a first portion of a second inner surface of the second panel. The first portion of the first inner surface includes a plurality of gap holes formed therethrough, and the first portion of the second inner surface includes a plurality of through holes therethrough. Typically, the second panel includes a corresponding through hole for each corresponding gap hole of the first panel, and the first panel and the second panel are aligned relative to each other so that each corresponding gap hole forms a corresponding gap hole-through hole pair with the corresponding through hole. The method also includes fastening a sliding joint (e.g., assembling a sliding joint kit) at the corresponding gap hole-through hole pair, thereby connecting the first panel to the second panel. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of illustrative, non-exclusive examples of a sliding joint kit for connecting panels and a system including the sliding joint kit according to the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 2 is a perspective view of an example of a heat shield for an aircraft including a plurality of sliding joints according to the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 3 is a perspective close-up view of a portion of a first panel and a second panel connected together by a plurality of sliding joints in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of one example of a sliding joint connecting a first panel and a second panel according to the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 5is a front view of one example of a washer with a stem that may be a component of a slip joint according to the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a portion of a first panel and a second panel connected by a sliding joint according to the present disclosure, illustrating movement of the sliding joint and the second panel relative to the first panel due to thermal expansion.

[0013] Figure 7 is an exploded view of another example of a slip joint according to the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 8 is assembled according to the present disclosure and connects two panels Figure 7 Cross-sectional view of a sliding joint.

[0015] Figure 9 is a plan view of a portion of a first panel and a second panel connected by a sliding joint according to the present disclosure, illustrating movement of the sliding joint relative to the first panel due to thermal expansion.

[0016] Figure 10 is a flow chart schematically illustrating a method according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] like Figure 1 As schematically shown in , the presently disclosed sliding joint kit 10 can be used to connect one or more panels (e.g., a first panel 12 and a second panel 14) together to allow for different rates of thermal expansion between the panels 12, 14. For example, the sliding joint kit 10 can be configured to be assembled to connect the first panel 12 and the second panel 14 to form a sliding joint 16 and allow the second panel 14 to thermally expand relative to the first panel 12, so that the second panel 14 slides relative to the first panel 12 as it expands. Such a sliding joint 16 and a system 18 including the sliding joint 16 can thereby reduce warping of the connected panels (e.g., the first panel 12 and the second panel 14), prevent or reduce stress at the fastened joint, and / or improve fatigue life (such as in a heat shield for an aircraft 20). At the same time, the presently disclosed sliding joint 16 can be configured to maintain contact (sometimes referred to as "clamping") between a portion of the panels 12, 14 to prevent hot air from entering the interior cavity 22 of the heat shield 24 (see Figure 2 ), and / or prevent vibration of panels 12, 14. Generally, in the drawings, elements that may be included in a given example are shown in solid lines, while elements that are optional for a given example are shown in dashed lines. However, elements shown in solid lines are not required for all examples of the present disclosure, and elements shown in solid lines may be omitted from a particular example without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 1 Schematic diagrams (configured in an exploded view) illustrate a plurality of sliding joint kits 10 that can be used to slidably connect a first panel 12 to a second panel 14 (e.g., to connect the first and second panels 12, 14 so that the panels can slide relative to each other, such as due to thermal expansion of one panel relative to the other). The sliding joint kit 10 generally includes a washer 26 and a fastener 28 that extends through a central hole 30 of the washer 26 when the sliding joint kit 10 is assembled, thereby forming the sliding joint 16. A lower flange surface 32 is configured to face a first exterior surface 34 of the first panel 12 and to slide relative to the first panel 12 (e.g., along the first exterior surface 34) when the joint is assembled. For example, when the sliding joint kit 10 is assembled to connect the first panel 12 to the second panel 14, the lower flange surface 32 of the washer 26 can slide in contact with (e.g., engage with) the first exterior surface 34 and translate relative to the first exterior surface 34 within a plane defined by the first exterior surface 34. In some examples, the lower flange surface 32 can directly contact the first exterior surface 34 of the first panel 12. 1 and 2. In other examples, one or more coatings or other materials may be present between the lower flange surface 32 and the first outer surface 34, while still forming a sliding relationship between the two surfaces. Similarly, the second inner surface 48 of the second panel 14 may be in sliding contact with the first inner surface 50 of the first panel 12, thereby facilitating sliding of the second panel 14 relative to the first panel 12. When the sliding joint kit 10 is so assembled, the first panel 12 and the second panel 14 may be arranged relative to each other such that the first outer surface 34 and the second outer surface 42 of the second panel 14 (the second outer surface 42 is opposite the second inner surface 48) face away from each other. As used herein, surfaces or structures are "in contact" or "engaged" with each other when one surface or structure exerts a force on another surface or structure, without necessarily requiring direct contact between the two (e.g., there may be intervening structures and / or coatings).

[0019] The fastener 28 generally includes a first head portion 36 configured to engage the second panel 14. For example, when the sliding joint kit 10 is assembled, the fastener 28 can be positioned through the through hole 38 in the second panel 14, through the clearance hole 40 in the first panel 12, and through the central hole 30 through the gasket 26. As used herein, the term "hole" refers to an aperture that extends through at least a portion of an object or material. For example, the central hole 30 is an aperture extending through the gasket 26 from the lower flange surface 32 to the upper flange surface 72 opposite the lower flange surface 32, the through hole 38 is an aperture extending through the second panel 14 from the second outer surface 42 to the second inner surface 48, and the clearance hole 40 is a hole extending through the first panel 12 from the first inner surface 50 to the first outer surface 34. In some examples, the first head portion 36 can be flush with the second outer surface 42 of the second panel 14, such as by being chamfered to engage the countersunk through hole 38. In other examples, the first head portion 36 need not be flush with the second exterior surface 42 , but may otherwise engage the second exterior surface 42 , thereby preventing the fastener 28 from being fully pulled through the through-hole 38 of the second panel 14 .

[0020] The clearance hole 40 has a clearance diameter 44 that is larger than the diameter 46 of the through hole 38. Typically, the through hole 38 is sized to accommodate the fastener 28 with little potential for translation within the through hole 38. However, the clearance hole 40 is significantly larger, thereby allowing for translation of the fastener 28 relative to the clearance hole 40 within the clearance hole 40. Thus, when the first and second panels 12, 14 are connected via the sliding joint assembly 10, the fastener 28 and the washer 26 are substantially fixed relative to the second panel 14, rather than relative to the first panel 12 (e.g., when the second panel 14 moves, the fastener 28 and the washer 26, already fixed via the through hole 38, move therewith). Thus, the sliding joint 16 can be configured to accommodate thermal expansion of one panel (e.g., the second panel 14) relative to the other panel (e.g., the first panel 12), while the second panel 14 can slide relative to the first panel 12, and while the second panel 14 thermally expands and moves relative to the first panel 12, the fastener 28 and the washer 26 can also slide relative to the first panel 12. In this manner, the first panel 12 and the second panel 14 can have different respective coefficients of thermal expansion, but coupled together by a sliding joint 16 according to the present disclosure, allowing the panels to remain coupled together but still expand by different amounts without causing warping of the panels (and / or reducing warping and / or other disadvantages present in prior art rigid joints). In some examples, the system 18 is configured such that thermal expansion of the second panel 14 relative to the first panel 12 does not induce shear loads on the first panel 12. For example, the clearance aperture 40 can be sized to accommodate expected movement or displacement of the second panel 14 relative to the first panel 12 (e.g., due to thermal expansion of the second panel 14 relative to the first panel 12) such that movement of the second panel 14 does not cause the sliding joint 16 to apply shear loads to the first panel 12. As used herein, "movement" includes thermal expansion, either independently of or in conjunction with other movement (such as translation, rotation, etc.).

[0021] In some examples, the sliding joint 16 is configured to maintain sliding contact between only a portion of the respective panels. Figure 2As best shown in FIG, the first portion 52 of the first panel 12 and the second portion 54 of the second panel 14, when connected by the sliding joint 16, can be in sliding contact with each other, while the second portion 56 of the first panel 12 and the second portion 58 of the second panel 14 can be spaced apart from each other (such as to form the internal cavity 22 between the panels). In some examples, the first portion 52 of the first panel 12 can be located within and along the first edge region 60 of the first panel 12. Similarly, the first portion 54 of the second panel 14 can be located within and along the first edge region 62 of the second panel 14. In some systems, when the system 18 is at nominal temperature conditions (e.g., at room temperature, at atmospheric pressure, and / or when other components of the system 18 or adjacent components of the system 18 are at sufficiently low temperatures), the first edge region 60 of the first panel 12 and the first edge region 62 of the second panel 14 substantially coincide with each other. In some examples, when the system 18 is exposed to elevated temperature conditions having a temperature sufficient to cause thermal expansion of the second panel 14 relative to the first panel 12, the first edge region 60 of the first panel 12 and the first edge region 62 of the second panel 14 may not coincide. In other words, in some examples, when the second panel 14 moves relative to the first panel 12 (e.g., thermally expands or otherwise moves as permitted by the sliding joint 16), the second panel 14 may move such that the first edge region 62 of the second panel 14 moves past or beyond the first edge region 60 of the first panel 12, such that the edge regions are no longer flush or coincident. In some examples, when the system 18 returns to a nominal temperature condition, the second panel 14 contracts relative to the first panel 12, such that the edge regions may again substantially coincide.

[0022] return Figure 1The fastener 28 can be any suitable fastener. In some examples, the fastener 28 can be a rivet, a countersunk rivet, a double-flush countersunk rivet, a bolt, a pin, a screw, a nail, and / or any other suitable fastener. The fastener 28 can include a shaft 64 extending from the first head portion 36. In some examples, the shaft 64 can include a threaded portion 66. In other examples, the fastener 28 can have no threads on the shaft 64. The shaft 64 can have a shaft length 68 sufficient to extend through at least the first panel 12, the second panel 14, and the gasket 26. In some examples, the fastener 28 includes a second head portion 70 opposite the first head portion 36. For example, the second head portion 70 can be configured to engage an upper flange surface 72 of the gasket 26, which is opposite the lower flange surface 32 of the gasket 26. For example, when the slip joint kit 10 is assembled, the second head portion 70 can be flush with the upper flange surface 72. In some examples, the central bore 30 of the washer 26 may be countersunk so that the slotted second head portion 70 may engage, such that the second head portion 70 is flush with the upper flange surface 72 of the washer 26 .

[0023] The flange diameter 74 of the gasket 26 is larger than the clearance diameter 44 of the clearance hole 40, so that the gasket 26 does not fall into or enter the clearance hole 40, and at least a portion of the lower flange surface 32 remains in sliding contact with the first outer surface 34 of the first panel 12 (e.g., the gasket 26 is configured to maintain an overlap 77 between the lower flange surface 32 and the first outer surface 34 of the first panel 12 (at Figure 4 In some examples, flange diameter 74 can be at least twice greater than gap diameter 44, such that flange radius 76 of washer 26 is also greater than gap diameter 44. Additionally or alternatively, the sum of flange radius 76 and fastener diameter 78 of fastener 28 can be greater than gap diameter 44.

[0024] The washer 26 may include a stem 80 extending from the lower flange surface 32, and the central bore 30 may also extend through the stem 80. Thus, the central bore 30 may have an inner stem diameter 82 within the stem 80 that is sized to accommodate the fastener 28, such as with a friction fit or a press fit. During assembly, the stem 80 is positioned within the clearance hole 40, and the fastener 28 extends through the through-hole 38, the clearance hole 40, the stem 80, and the central bore 30 of the washer 26. In some examples, the stem 80 may extend through the clearance hole 40 all the way to the second inner surface 48 of the second panel 14. In other examples, the stem 80 may extend through only a portion of the depth of the clearance hole 40. When the second panel 14, the fastener 28, and the washer 26 move relative to the first panel 12, such as due to thermal expansion of the second panel 14 relative to the first panel 12, the stem 80 may slide (e.g., translate) within the clearance hole 40. In other words, the outer stem diameter 84 of the stem 80 is smaller than the clearance diameter 44 of the clearance hole 40.

[0025] In some examples, the gap diameter 44 is sized relative to the fastener 28 (and / or rod 80) to allow for a predetermined amount of thermal expansion of the second panel 14 relative to the first panel 12, and thereby allow for a predetermined amount of movement of the fastener 28 (and / or rod 80) relative to the clearance hole 40. For example, the gap diameter 44 may be sized relative to the fastener diameter 78 (and / or relative to the outer rod diameter 84) such that when the second panel 14 expands / moves relative to the first panel 12, the fastener 28 (and / or rod 80) remains spaced apart from the peripheral sidewall 85 of the clearance hole 40, thereby causing the fastener 28 and / or rod 80 to move within the clearance hole 40. In fact, in some examples, the gap diameter 44 is greater than the fastener diameter 78 (and / or the outer shank diameter 84) by more than 25%, more than 50%, more than 75%, more than 100%, more than 150%, more than 200%, more than 300%, more than 400%, and / or more than 500%. In some examples, the sum of the flange radius 76 and the outer shank diameter 84 of the washer 26 is greater than the gap diameter 44.

[0026] Some systems 18 may include a threaded collar 86 having internal threads configured to engage the threaded portion 66 of the fastener 28 and engageable with the fastener 28 adjacent the washer 26. The threaded collar 86 may be configured to engage the fastener 28 at a maximum predetermined preload, thereby preventing the slip joint 16 from being tightened to a point that prevents or hinders sliding between the first panel 12 and the second panel 14. For example, the threaded collar 86 may include a torsion element 88 configured to disengage from the threaded collar 86 under a predetermined preload. In some examples, the torsion element 88 may include a hexagonal head for securing the threaded collar 86 to the fastener 28, but is configured to prevent excessive torque from being applied to the threaded collar 86 (e.g., the threaded collar 86 has a maximum installation torque that is sufficiently low to allow sliding between at least a portion of the first panel 12 and the second panel 14 due to thermal expansion of the second panel 14 relative to the first panel 12). The threaded collar 86 can generally be configured to prevent movement of the fastener 28 in a longitudinal direction 90 defined by the longitudinal axis of the fastener 28 when secured to the fastener 28. In some examples, the threaded collar 86 can be substantially cylindrical. Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the threaded collar 86 can have oval threads.

[0027] The system 18 may include a wear coating 92 applied to, for example, the second inner surface 48 of the second panel 14 (e.g., the first portion 54 of the second inner surface 48), the first inner surface 50 of the first panel 12 (e.g., the first portion 52 of the first inner surface 50), the first outer surface 34 of the first panel 12, and / or the lower flange surface 32 of the gasket 26. Generally, in the presently disclosed system, the wear coating 92 may be present on any surface that is in sliding contact with another surface. The wear coating 92 may be configured to prevent wear and / or reduce friction between surfaces in sliding contact with each other. In some examples, the wear coating 92 may be a tungsten carbide coating. The wear coating 92 may be sprayed, deposited, adhered to, and / or otherwise applied to one or more surfaces of the sliding joint 16 and may generally be applied prior to assembling the panels using the sliding joint 16.

[0028] The presently disclosed sliding joint kit 10 can be used to connect any suitable panels together for any application, such as in aircraft, aerospace, military, entertainment, and / or other vehicles. In some specific examples, the sliding joint kit 10 can be used to connect panels for an engine pylon cowling, a heat shield, a plume suppressor flange for a heat shield, and / or a jet propulsion system. For example, the first panel 12 can be a first heat shield panel, such as a side panel for a heat shield, and the second panel 14 can be a second heat shield panel, such as a bottom panel for a heat shield. In these examples, the system 18 can be a heat shield, a heat shield plume suppressor, a component of a jet propulsion system, and / or an aircraft including one or more thereof.

[0029] The first panel 12 and the second panel 14 can be arranged relative to each other so that at least a portion of the first inner surface 50 of the first panel 12 faces at least a portion of the second inner surface 48 of the second panel 14. For example, the first portion 52 of the first inner surface 50 can face and be in sliding contact with the first portion 54 of the second inner surface 48. In some examples, such as in Figure 2 , the first panel 12 and / or the second panel 14 are shaped such that the entire inner surfaces of the first panel 12 and the second panel 14 do not necessarily face each other. In some examples, the first panel 12 and the second panel 14 can be arranged such that substantially the entire first inner surface 50 of the first panel 12 faces substantially the entire second inner surface 48 of the second panel 14. Regardless of the arrangement of the first panel 12 and the second panel 14 relative to each other, the first inner surface 50 of the first panel 12 is opposite the first outer surface 34 of the first panel 12, and the second inner surface 48 of the second panel 14 is opposite the second outer surface 42 of the second panel 14.

[0030] The first panel 12 typically includes a plurality of clearance holes 40 formed therethrough, but may include only one clearance hole 40 in some examples. The clearance hole 40 extends through the first panel 12 from the first inner surface 50 to the first outer surface 34 of the first panel 12. In some examples, the first panel 12 includes the plurality of clearance holes 40 arranged in one or more rows along the length of the first panel 12. Additionally or alternatively, the first panel 12 may include the plurality of clearance holes 40 arranged in an array or other pattern, as desired for a given application. Figure 2 In the example shown in FIG, the first panel 12 includes an array of clearance holes 40 spaced apart from one another and arranged generally linearly along the length of the first panel 12, positioned within a first edge region 60 of the first panel 12. Generally, the clearance holes 40 can be formed in the first panel 12 in an area where it is desired to connect the first panel 12 to another panel, such as, for example, to the second panel 14. In some examples, the clearance holes 40 have a substantially constant diameter.

[0031] Similarly, the second panel 14 typically includes a plurality of through-holes 38 formed therethrough, but in some examples may include only one through-hole 38. The through-hole 38 extends through the second panel 14 from the second inner surface 48 to the second outer surface 42 of the second panel 14. In some examples, the second panel 14 includes the plurality of through-holes 38 arranged in one or more rows along the length of the second panel 14. Additionally or alternatively, the second panel 14 may include the plurality of through-holes 38 arranged in an array or other pattern, as desired for a given application. Figure 2 In the example shown in , the second panel 14 includes a row of through-holes 38 spaced apart from one another and arranged generally linearly along the length of the second panel 14, positioned within a first edge region 62 of the second panel 14. Generally, the through-holes 38 may be formed in the second panel 14 in an area where it is desired to connect the second panel 14 to another panel (e.g., to the first panel 12). Figure 2 In the example of FIG. 1 , the first panel 12 is connected to the second panel 14 along the first edge region 60 of the first panel 12 and the first edge region 62 of the second panel 14, and thus, the gap holes 40 and the through holes 38 are positioned accordingly. Figure 1 In some examples, the through-hole 38 has a substantially constant diameter, and in some examples is countersunk, having a diameter that decreases between the second outer surface 42 to the second inner surface 48 of the second panel 14 .

[0032] return Figure 1 , the first panel 12 and the second panel 14 are generally aligned and positioned relative to each other such that each respective clearance hole 40 of the first panel 12 is aligned with a respective through hole 38 of the second panel 14, thereby forming a plurality of clearance hole-through hole pairs 94 (e.g., the system 18 may include a respective through hole 38 for each respective clearance hole 40). Figure 1 , the panels 12, 14 can be arranged such that each respective clearance hole-through hole pair 94 is substantially concentric with one another, although in some examples, the respective through holes 38 and clearance holes 40 of the respective clearance hole-through hole pairs 94 need not be concentric. The system 18 generally includes a respective sliding joint kit 10 for each clearance hole-through hole pair 94 such that each sliding joint kit 10 can be assembled to connect the first panel 12 to the second panel 14. The respective sliding joint kit 10 is configured to connect the first panel 12 to the second panel 14 at respective locations within the first edge region 60 of the first panel 12 and the first edge region 62 of the second panel 14 such that the first portion 52 of the first inner surface 50 of the first panel 12 is in sliding contact with the first portion 54 of the second inner surface 48 of the second panel 14. The first portion 52 of the first inner surface 50 can be within the first edge region 60 of the first panel 12, and the first portion 54 of the second inner surface 48 can be within the first edge region 62 of the second panel 14, as shown. Figure 2 Thus, the system 18 is configured so that when Figure 1 When the sliding joint kit 10 is assembled to connect the first panel 12 and the second panel 14, the sliding joint maintains contact between the first portion 52 of the first inner surface 50 of the first panel 12 and the first portion 54 of the second inner surface 48 of the second panel 14 while allowing sliding movement of the first portion 54 of the second inner surface 48 relative to the first portion 52 of the first inner surface 50. When assembled, the through-hole 38 generally receives the first head portion 36 of the fastener 28. In some examples, the outer fastener surface 96 of the first head portion 36 is substantially flush with the second outer surface 42 of the second panel 14, although in other examples, the first head portion 36 may extend beyond the second outer surface 42 of the second panel 14.

[0033] The system 18 can include any suitable number of sliding joints 16. As illustrative examples, in some examples, the system 18 includes at least 5, at least 10, at least 15, at least 20, at least 25, at least 30, at least 40, and / or at least 50 sliding joints 16. In some examples, the system 18 includes a number of sliding joints 16 sufficient to prevent and / or reduce vibration between the first panel 12 and the second panel 14 adjacent the first edge region 60 of the first panel 12 and the first edge region 62 of the second panel 14. Additionally or alternatively, the system 18 can include a number of sliding joints 16 sufficient to prevent and / or reduce air ingress into the interior cavity 22 formed between the first panel 12 and the second panel 14. In some systems 18, respective sliding joints 16 can be positioned at a location of maximum deflection between the first panel 12 and the second panel 14.

[0034] Now turn Figures 2 to 9, which shows illustrative, non-exclusive examples of system 18 and slip joint 16. Where appropriate, from Figure 1 The reference numerals in the schematic diagram are used to indicate Figures 2 to 9 The corresponding part; however, Figures 2 to 9 The examples are non-exclusive and do not limit the system 18 or the slip joint 16 to Figures 2 to 9 That is, the system 18 and the sliding joint 16 are not limited to the embodiment shown. Figures 2 to 9 Specific embodiments and may include reference Figure 1 Schematic diagram and / or Figures 2 to 9 Any number of various aspects, configurations, characteristics, properties, etc., and variations thereof, shown and discussed in the embodiments of the present invention are not necessarily inclusive of all such aspects, configurations, characteristics, properties, etc. For the sake of brevity, each previously discussed component, part, portion, aspect, region, etc., or variations thereof, may no longer be discussed in detail. Figures 2 to 9 Discussion, illustration and / or labeling; however, within the scope of the present disclosure, previously discussed features, variations, etc. may be used with Figures 2 to 9 for use with any embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 2 A system 98 is shown, which is an example of the system 18 in the form of a heat shield 24 for an aircraft. The system 98 includes a first side panel 100 and a second side panel 100' (which are examples of the first panel 12), and a bottom panel 102 (which is an example of the second panel 14). The bottom panel 102 is connected to the first side panel 100 and the second side panel 100' at either end of the bottom panel 102 via a plurality of sliding joints 16. Figure 2As shown in FIG, bottom panel 102 includes a first edge region 62 and a second edge region 62′ opposite first edge region 62. First side panel 100 is connected to bottom panel 102 along first edge region 62 of bottom panel 102 and first edge region 60 of first side panel 100. Similarly, second side panel 100′ is connected to bottom panel 102 along second edge region 62′ of bottom panel 102 and first edge region 60′ of second side panel 100′. Thus, system 98 includes a plurality of sliding joints 16 along first edge region 62 and second edge region 62′ of bottom panel 102. First portions 104 of the plurality of sliding joints 16 are positioned along first edge region 62 of bottom panel 102 and first edge region 60 of first side panel 100, thereby connecting bottom panel 102 and first side panel 100 in sliding contact. The second portion 106 of the plurality of sliding joints 16 is positioned along the second edge region 62' of the bottom panel 102 and the first edge region 60' of the second side panel 100', thereby connecting the bottom panel 102 and the second side panel 100' in sliding contact. The first portion 104 and the second portion 106 of the sliding joint 16 may include any suitable number of sliding joints. For example, at least 5, at least 10, at least 15, at least 20, at least 25, at least 30, at least 40, and / or at least 50 sliding joints may be positioned along each of the first edge region 62 and the second edge region 62' of the bottom panel 102.

[0036] The side panels 100, 100' and the bottom panel 102 of the heat shield 24 are as shown in FIG. Figure 2 , and are arranged relative to each other to form the interior cavity 22 defined by the panels. In some systems 98, multiple interior frames 108 are positioned within the interior cavity 22, and a corresponding sliding joint 16 can be positioned at or near each respective midpoint between respective pairs of adjacent interior frames 108. Additionally or alternatively, a respective sliding joint 16 can be positioned adjacent each endpoint 110 and spaced apart from each other between the respective endpoints 110.

[0037] Figure 3 Shown from Figure 2 A close-up of one corner of the heat shield 24 having a plurality of sliding joints 112 (which are examples of sliding joints 16 ), and Figure 4 Shown from Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a sliding joint 112 is shown. Figures 3 and 4In the example shown in FIG, fastener 28 includes a first head portion 36 that engages bottom panel 102 and a second head portion 70 that engages washer 26. The example of fastener 28 is shown as a double flush countersunk rivet (e.g., central hole 30 in washer 26 and through hole 38 in bottom panel 102 are countersunk so that first outer fastener surface 96 is flush with second outer surface 42, and second outer fastener surface 96' is flush with upper flange surface 72 of washer 26), but other examples may include different types of fasteners. System 98 also includes a wear coating 92 on second inner surface 48 of bottom panel 102 (e.g., on first portion 54 of second inner surface 48), first inner surface 50 of side panel 100 (e.g., on first portion 52 of first inner surface 50), and lower flange surface 32 of washer 26. In some examples, the first outer surface 34 of the side panel 100 may additionally include a wear coating 92, such as in areas of the first outer surface 34 over which the gasket 26 slides when the bottom panel 102 moves relative to the side panel 100. For illustrative purposes, the thickness of the wear coating 92 may be exaggerated in the drawings.

[0038] Figures 3 and 4 The gasket 26 of the example (for clarity, in Figure 5 The washer 26 itself is shown in FIG. 8 , which includes a stem 80 having an outer stem diameter 84 and an inner stem diameter 82 sized to receive the fastener 28. Figure 4 As best shown in FIG, when the sliding joint 112 is assembled to connect the side panel 100 and the bottom panel 102, the rod 80 is positioned within the clearance hole 40 of the side panel 100, as shown. The fastener 28 extends through the central hole 30 of the washer 26 (and the rod 80). The clearance diameter 44 of the clearance hole 40 is sized relative to the outer rod diameter 84 so that the rod 80 and the fastener 28 can move within the clearance hole 40 as the bottom panel 102 moves relative to the side panel 100. In some examples, the clearance hole 40 is sized large enough to accommodate the expected movement of the rod 80 due to expansion of the bottom panel 102, so that the rod 80 does not contact the peripheral sidewall 85 of the clearance hole 40. The washer 26 and the fastener 28 are substantially fixed relative to the bottom panel 102 so that when the bottom panel 102 moves relative to the side panel 100, the fastener 28 and the washer 26 move with the bottom panel 102.

[0039] Figure 4 Also shown are a first portion 52 of the first interior surface 50 of the side panel 100 and a first portion 54 of the second interior surface 48 of the bottom panel 102 in sliding contact with each other. Figures 1 to 2 The second portion 56 of the first panel 12 in FIG. 1 and the second portion of the bottom panel 102 (eg, Figures 1 to 2The second portions 58 of the second panels 14 in the embodiment of the present invention may be spaced apart from each other to form an interior cavity between the second portions of the panels (e.g., Figures 1 to 2 2). For example, the side panel 100 and the bottom panel 102 can be formed in the system 98 so that they are in sliding contact with each other near the first edge region 60 of the side panel 100 and the first edge region 62 of the bottom panel 102. In other words, the first portion 52 of the first side panel 100 can be positioned within the first edge region 60 of the side panel 100, and the first portion 54 of the bottom panel 102 can be positioned within the first edge region 62 of the bottom panel 102.

[0040] like Figure 4 , which shows the side panel 100 and bottom panel 102 under nominal temperature conditions, when the sliding joint 112 is assembled, the rod 80 (and / or fastener 28) need not be centered within the clearance hole 40 of the side panel 100 to connect the panels. In other examples, under nominal temperature conditions, the rod 80 (and / or fastener 28) may be centered within the clearance hole 40. Under elevated temperature conditions, the bottom panel 102 may expand relative to the side panel 100, effectively moving relative to the side panel 100. In some examples, the bottom panel 102 moves relative to the side panel 100 in one or more directions (such as along arrow 114). Because the fastener 28 and washer 26 are substantially fixed relative to the bottom panel 102, when the bottom panel 102 moves relative to the side panel 100, the fastener 28 and washer 26 also move relative to the side panel 100 within the clearance hole 40 (and the lower flange surface 32 of the washer 26 moves along the first outer surface 34 of the side panel 100).

[0041] Figure 6 An example of such movement is shown in FIG, where the positions of the gasket 26 and fastener 28 at nominal temperature conditions are shown in dashed lines. Although in the nominal temperature configuration, as Figure 5 As shown in FIG, the first edge region 60 of the side panel 100 and the first edge region 62 of the bottom panel 102 may substantially coincide, but under high temperature conditions, such as Figure 6 As shown in FIG, the first edge region 60 of the side panel 100 and the first edge region 62 of the bottom panel 102 do not overlap.

[0042] like Figure 6As shown in FIG, side panel 100 and bottom panel 102 have been exposed to temperature conditions sufficient to cause bottom panel 102 to thermally expand to a greater extent than side panel 100. Sliding joint 112 is configured to allow movement of one panel (e.g., bottom panel 102) relative to another panel (e.g., side panel 100) due to differential thermal expansion between the panels. In this example, bottom panel 102 has expanded and moved relative to side panel 100 (e.g., in the direction indicated by arrow 114), causing gasket 26 and fastener 28 to move relative to side panel 100 from a position shown in phantom to a position shown in solid lines, and causing movement of bottom panel 102 relative to side panel 100 such that a portion of bottom panel 102 extends beyond side panel 100. For example, in this configuration, a portion of first edge region 62 of bottom panel 102 extends beyond first edge region 60 of side panel 100, such that a portion of second inner surface 48 of bottom panel 102 may be exposed (which may or may not also have wear coating 92 present thereon). When the temperature conditions cool, the bottom panel 102 can contract relative to the side panel 100, causing the second inner surface 48 of the bottom panel 102 to slide along and relative to the first inner surface 50 of the side panel 100 (e.g., along arrow 116), and the lower flange surface 32 of the gasket 26 to slide along and relative to the first outer surface 34 of the side panel 100. After heating and expanding, the bottom panel 102 can cool and contract, returning to Figure 4 Nominal temperature configuration shown in .

[0043] Figures 7 to 9 A system 118 (which is another example of system 18 ) is shown that includes one or more slip joints 120 (which are examples of slip joints 16 ). Figure 7 An exploded view of the sliding joint 120 is shown, Figure 8 A partial cross-sectional view showing the sliding joint 120 assembled relative to the side panel 100 and the bottom panel 102, and Figure 9 100. Movement of the sliding joint 120 relative to the side panel 100 due to thermal expansion of the bottom panel 102 relative to the side panel 100 is shown. In this example, the fastener 28 is a bolt having a first head portion 36 that engages the bottom panel 102, but the fastener 28 does not include a second head portion in this example. The washer 26 also does not include a stem in this example. When the sliding joint 120 is assembled to the side panel 100 and the bottom panel 102, the fastener 28 is positioned through the through hole 38 in the bottom panel 102, the clearance hole 40 in the side panel 100, the center hole 30 of the washer 26, and the threaded collar 86. The shaft 64 of the fastener 28 includes a threaded portion 66 that is configured to engage with the internal threads of the threaded collar 86. When the sliding joint 120 is being assembled to the panels, the sliding joint 120 may also include a torsion element 88 that is initially coupled to the threaded collar 86 (but is then twisted). Figure 7 100 ). The torsion element 88 can be configured to engage with a wrench or other tool to tighten the threaded collar 86 onto the fastener 28. Once a predetermined torque is reached while tightening the threaded collar 86 onto the fastener 28, the torsion element 88 is configured to disconnect from the threaded collar 86, leaving only the threaded collar 86 coupled to the shaft 64 of the fastener 28. In this manner, the torsion element 88 can be configured to prevent the threaded collar 86 from being overtightened onto the fastener 28. For example, if the slip joint 120 is overtightened, friction and tensile loads between the washer 26 and the first outer surface 34 of the side panel 100 (and / or between the first inner surface 50 of the side panel 100 and the second inner surface 48 of the bottom panel 102) can prevent the panels from sliding relative to each other in the event of thermal expansion of one panel relative to the other.

[0044] Figure 8 The assembled sliding joint 120 is shown, thereby connecting the bottom panel 102 to the side panel 100. Figure 8 , when the slip joint 120 is assembled, the threaded collar 86 is configured to secure the fastener 28 relative to the washer 26 and the clearance hole 40, thereby substantially preventing the fastener 28 from traveling in a longitudinal direction (e.g., along the longitudinal axis 90) relative to the side panel 100 and the bottom panel 102. The wear coating 92 may be applied to (or deposited on, etc.) some or all of the first inner surface 50 of the side panel 100, the second inner surface 48 of the bottom panel 102, the lower flange surface 32 of the washer 26, and / or the first outer surface 34 of the side panel 100. As the bottom panel 102 thermally expands and moves relative to the side panel 100, the fastener 28 moves within and relative to the clearance hole 40, and the lower flange surface 32 of the washer 26 slides along the first outer surface 34 of the side panel 100. Figure 9 Movement of the gasket 26 , fastener 28 , threaded collar 86 , and bottom panel 102 relative to the clearance hole 40 and side panel 100 is shown between nominal temperature conditions (shown in solid lines) and elevated temperature conditions (shown in dashed lines) sufficient to cause thermal expansion of the bottom panel 102 relative to the side panel 100 .

[0045] Figure 10 Schematically provided are flow charts representing illustrative, non-exclusive examples of methods 200, 202 according to the present disclosure. Figure 10 In the embodiment of the present invention, some steps are shown in dashed boxes, which indicate that such steps may be optional or may correspond to optional versions of the method according to the present disclosure. That is, not all methods according to the present disclosure need to include the steps shown in solid boxes. Figure 10The methods and steps shown in are not limiting, and other methods and steps fall within the scope of the present disclosure, including methods having more or less than the number of steps shown, as will be understood from the discussion herein.

[0046] A method 200 for connecting one or more panels (e.g., connecting a first panel 12 and a second panel 14) is disclosed, and may also be a method 202 for incorporating one or more presently disclosed systems, such as system 18, 98, and / or 118, into one or more panels and / or into an aircraft. Methods 200, 202 generally include positioning a first panel and a second panel at 204, and fastening / assembling a sliding joint (e.g., sliding joint 16) at 206, such as by assembling and coupling one or more sliding joint kits (e.g., sliding joint kit 10) to connect the first and second panels, thereby connecting the panels. Positioning the first and second panels at 204 generally includes positioning a first portion of a first interior surface of the first panel (e.g., first portion 52 of first interior surface 50 of first panel 12) such that it is adjacent to and facing a first portion of a second interior surface of the second panel (e.g., first portion 54 of second interior surface 48 of second panel 14). As described above, the first portions of the first and second interior surfaces may each include a plurality of clearance holes and through-holes formed therethrough. In some examples, method 200 includes drilling, milling, or otherwise forming one or more clearance holes (e.g., clearance hole 40) in the first panel (such as within the first edge region 60 of the first panel 12) and / or drilling, milling, or otherwise forming one or more through holes (e.g., through hole 38) in the second panel (such as within the first edge region 62 and / or the second edge region 62' of the second panel 14) at 208.

[0047] In some methods 200, positioning the first panel and the second panel at 204 includes aligning the first panel and the second panel relative to each other such that each respective clearance hole forms a respective clearance hole-through hole pair with a respective through hole (e.g., the panels may be aligned and positioned relative to each other such that respective holes formed in respective panels are aligned with each other).

[0048] At 206, tightening the sliding joints to the panels is performed to connect the panels together such that at least a portion of the panels are in sliding contact with each other. In some methods 200, a single sliding joint may be tightened to connect the panels. In some methods 200, multiple sliding joints may be tightened to connect the panels. In some examples, tightening the sliding joint(s) to the panels at 206 includes tightening a sufficient number of respective sliding joints to prevent or reduce vibration between the first panel and the second panel. Additionally or alternatively, tightening the sliding joint(s) to the panels at 206 may include tightening a sufficient number of respective sliding joints to prevent or reduce air ingress into a cavity (e.g., interior cavity 22) formed between the first panel and the second panel. In some methods 200, tightening the sliding joints at 206 includes tightening a respective sliding joint at each respective midpoint between respective adjacent pairs of interior frames coupled to the first panel and / or the second panel.

[0049] The panels may be connected such that the entire respective panels are in sliding contact with each other. Alternatively, the panels may be connected such that only a portion of the respective panels are in sliding contact with each other. Fastening the sliding joint and / or assembling the sliding joint kit at 206 typically includes fastening the respective sliding joint to each respective clearance hole-through hole pair. In some methods, fastening the sliding joint to the panel at 206 includes inserting a fastener (e.g., fastener 28) at 210, positioning a washer (e.g., washer 26) at 212, engaging a first head portion of the fastener (e.g., first head portion 36) at 214, engaging a second head portion of the fastener (e.g., second head portion 70) at 216, and / or engaging a threaded collar (e.g., threaded collar 86) at 218.

[0050] Inserting the fastener at 210 typically includes inserting the fastener through a clearance hole in the first panel, through a through-hole in the second panel, and through a central hole in the washer (e.g., central hole 30 of washer 26). In some examples, inserting the fastener at 210 also includes inserting the fastener through a threaded collar so that the threaded collar engages a threaded portion of the fastener at 218. In some methods 200, inserting the fastener at 210 includes inserting the fastener sufficiently so that a first head portion of the fastener (e.g., first head portion 36) engages the second panel at 214. In some examples, this includes engaging the fastener so that an outer fastener surface (e.g., outer fastener surface 96) is substantially flush with a second outer surface of the second panel (e.g., second outer surface 42 of second panel 14). Additionally or alternatively, in examples where the fastener includes a second head portion, the second head portion may be engaged at 216, such as in the case of a double countersunk rivet, where the second head portion may engage the washer, such as with an upper flange surface (e.g., upper flange surface 72) of the washer.

[0051] Positioning the gasket at 212 typically includes positioning the gasket so that a lower flange surface of the gasket (e.g., lower flange surface 32) faces the first exterior surface of the first panel (e.g., first exterior surface 34 of first panel 12). In some approaches, at least a portion of the lower flange surface can be in direct contact with the first exterior surface of the first panel. In some approaches, one or more layers of a wear coating can be present, such as on the lower flange surface and / or on the first exterior surface of the first panel.

[0052] In some examples, method 200 includes applying a wear coating (e.g., wear coating 92) at 220. For example, the wear coating may be applied to (e.g., sprayed onto, deposited onto, adhered to, or otherwise applied to) one or more surfaces of the slip joint and / or the panel. In some methods 200, applying the wear coating at 220 includes applying the wear coating to at least a portion of one or more of the lower flange surface of the gasket, the first outer surface of the first panel, the first inner surface of the first panel, and the second inner surface of the second panel. In some methods, applying the wear coating at 220 includes applying the wear coating to any surface configured to slide in contact with another surface. Applying the wear coating at 220 may be performed before assembling the slip joint at 206, before drilling the clearance hole(s) and / or through hole(s) at 208, and / or before positioning the first and second panels at 204. In some examples, applying the wear coating at 220 includes applying the wear coating to a first portion of the second inner surface of the second panel and to a first portion of the first inner surface of the first panel.

[0053] Some methods 200 include exposing the first and second panels to heat at 222, such that the panels are subjected to elevated temperature conditions. For example, where the first and second panels form part of a heat shield for an aircraft, exposing the panels to heat at 222 may include turning on the aircraft's engine and / or flying the aircraft. Exposing the panels to heat at 222 may include exposing the panels to a temperature sufficient to cause thermal expansion of the first and / or second panels. Exposing the presently disclosed systems to heat at 222 may result in thermal expansion of the second panel relative to the first panel, in which case the presently disclosed sliding joints are configured to advantageously allow movement of the second panel relative to the first panel due to the thermal expansion of the second panel relative to the first panel. In this manner, the presently disclosed systems and sliding joints may be configured to prevent warping or other damage to the second panel, reduce the likelihood of crack initiation in the second panel, and / or reduce stress at the joint connecting the panels.

[0054] Illustrative, non-exclusive examples of inventive subject matter according to the present disclosure are described in the following enumerated paragraphs:

[0055] A1. A sliding joint kit for connecting a first panel to a second panel, the sliding joint kit comprising:

[0056] a gasket having a central hole and a lower flange surface configured to slide relative to the first panel, the gasket being configured such that the lower flange surface faces the first outer surface of the first panel; and

[0057] a fastener extending through the central hole of the gasket, the fastener having a first head portion configured to engage the second panel;

[0058] wherein the sliding joint kit is configured to be assembled to connect the first panel and the second panel, wherein when the first panel is connected to the second panel via the assembled sliding joint kit, the fastener and the washer are fixed relative to the second panel, and wherein when the fastener and the washer are fixed relative to the second panel, the washer and the second panel are in sliding contact with the first panel.

[0059] A1.1 The sliding joint kit of paragraph A1, wherein the lower flange surface of the gasket is in sliding contact with the first outer surface of the first panel when the fastener and the gasket are secured relative to the second panel.

[0060] A1.2 The sliding joint kit of paragraph A1 or A1.1, wherein the second inner surface of the second panel is in sliding contact with the first inner surface of the first panel when the fastener and the washer are secured relative to the second panel.

[0061] A2. The sliding joint kit of paragraph A1, wherein the sliding joint kit is configured to accommodate different coefficients of thermal expansion between the second panel and the first panel.

[0062] A3. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A2, wherein, when the fastener and the washer are secured relative to the second panel, the sliding joint kit is configured to maintain contact between the first portion of the first panel and the first portion of the second panel while allowing sliding of the first portion of the second panel relative to the first portion of the first panel.

[0063] A3.1. The sliding joint kit of paragraph A3, wherein the first portion of the first panel is within a first edge region of the first panel, and wherein the first portion of the second panel is within a first edge region of the second panel.

[0064] A4. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A3.1, wherein the first head portion is flush with the second outer surface of the second panel when the fastener and the washer are secured relative to the second panel.

[0065] A4.1. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A4, wherein the first head portion is grooved to engage a through hole in the second panel, the through hole being countersunk.

[0066] A5. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A4.1, wherein the fastener comprises a countersunk rivet.

[0067] A5.1. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A5, wherein the fastener comprises a double flush countersunk rivet.

[0068] A6. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A5, wherein the fastener includes a second head portion configured to engage an upper flange surface of the washer, the upper flange surface opposite the lower flange surface.

[0069] A7. The sliding joint kit of paragraph A6, wherein the second head portion of the fastener is flush with the upper flange surface of the washer.

[0070] A7.1. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A6 to A7, wherein the second head portion is grooved to engage the center hole of the washer, the center hole being countersunk into the washer at the upper flange surface.

[0071] A8. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A7.1, wherein the fastener comprises a bolt having a shaft extending from the first head portion.

[0072] A9. The sliding joint kit of paragraph A8, wherein the shaft includes a threaded portion.

[0073] A10. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A8-A9, wherein the shaft has a shaft length sufficient to extend through the first panel, the second panel, and the gasket.

[0074] A11. A sliding joint kit according to any one of paragraphs A1 to A10, wherein the flange radius of the gasket is greater than the diameter of the clearance hole formed in the first panel, wherein the fastener extends through the clearance hole when the fastener and the gasket are secured relative to the second panel.

[0075] A12. A sliding joint kit according to any one of paragraphs A1 to A11, wherein the sum of the flange radius of the gasket / the flange radius and the fastener diameter of the fastener is greater than the diameter of the clearance hole / the clearance hole / the diameter formed in the first panel, and the fastener is configured to extend through the clearance hole.

[0076] A13. A sliding joint kit according to any of paragraphs A1 to A12, wherein the flange diameter of the gasket is larger than the diameter of the clearance hole / the clearance hole / the diameter formed in the first panel, and the fastener is configured to extend through the clearance hole.

[0077] A14. A sliding joint kit according to any of paragraphs A1 to A13, wherein the gasket includes a rod extending from the lower flange surface, wherein the center hole extends through the rod, and wherein the fastener is configured to extend through the rod when the sliding joint kit is assembled to connect the first panel and the second panel.

[0078] A15. A sliding joint kit according to paragraph A14, wherein, when the fastener and the washer are fixed relative to the second panel, the rod of the washer is configured to slide within the clearance hole / the clearance hole formed in the first panel when the second panel moves relative to the first panel, and wherein the washer is configured to maintain an overlap between the lower flange surface and the first outer surface of the first panel.

[0079] A16. The sliding joint kit of paragraph A14 or A15, wherein the rod extends to the second inner surface of the second panel when the fastener and the washer are secured relative to the second panel.

[0080] A16.1. A sliding joint kit according to any of paragraphs A14 to A16, wherein the rod has an inner rod diameter sized to accommodate the fastener, and wherein the rod has an outer rod diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the clearance hole / the clearance hole / the diameter formed in the first panel, the fastener being configured to extend through the clearance hole.

[0081] A17. A sliding joint kit according to any of paragraphs A1 to A16.1, wherein when the fastener and the washer are secured relative to the second panel, the fastener extends through a through hole / the through hole formed in the second panel, wherein the second diameter of the through hole is smaller than the diameter / the diameter of the clearance hole / the clearance hole formed in the first panel.

[0082] A18. The slip joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A17, further comprising a threaded collar having internal threads configured to engage the threaded portion of the fastener adjacent the washer.

[0083] A18.1. A sliding joint kit according to paragraph A18, wherein the threaded collar is configured to have a maximum installation torque when the sliding joint kit is assembled to connect the first panel and the second panel, and wherein the maximum installation torque is low enough to allow sliding between the first panel and the second panel due to thermal expansion of the second panel relative to the first panel.

[0084] A19. The slip joint kit of paragraph A18 or A18.1, wherein the internal threads of the threaded collar are oval threads.

[0085] A20. A sliding joint kit according to any one of paragraphs A18 to A19, wherein the threaded collar is configured to prevent movement of the fastener relative to the gasket in a longitudinal direction when the sliding joint kit is assembled to connect the first panel and the second panel, wherein the longitudinal direction is defined by the longitudinal axis of the fastener.

[0086] A21. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A18 to A20, wherein the threaded collar is configured to preload the fastener.

[0087] A22. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A18 to A21, wherein the threaded collar includes a torsion element configured to disengage from the threaded collar under a predetermined preload.

[0088] A22.1. The sliding joint kit of paragraph A22, wherein the torsion element comprises a hexagonal head.

[0089] A22.2. The slip joint kit of paragraph A22 or A22.1, wherein the threaded collar is substantially cylindrical.

[0090] A23. The sliding joint kit of any one of paragraphs A1 to A22.2, further comprising a coating located on the second inner surface / the second inner surface of the second panel, the first inner surface of the first panel, the first outer surface of the first panel, and / or the lower flange surface of the gasket when the fastener and the gasket are secured relative to the second panel.

[0091] A24. The sliding joint kit of paragraph A23, wherein the coating is configured to prevent wear.

[0092] A25. The sliding joint kit of paragraph A23 or A24, wherein the coating is configured to reduce friction between respective surfaces in contact with each other.

[0093] A26. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A23 to A25, wherein the coating comprises tungsten carbide.

[0094] A27. A sliding joint kit according to any one of paragraphs A1 to A26, wherein the assembled sliding joint kit is configured to accommodate sliding of the second panel relative to the first panel in multiple directions when the fastener and the washer are fixed relative to the second panel.

[0095] A28. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A27, wherein the sliding joint kit is configured to connect panels of an engine pylon cowling.

[0096] A29. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A28, wherein the sliding joint kit is configured for use on a heat shield of an aircraft.

[0097] A29.1. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A29, wherein the sliding joint kit is configured for use on a heat shield plume suppressor joint for an aircraft.

[0098] A30. The sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A29.1, wherein the sliding joint kit is configured for use with a jet propulsion system.

[0099] B1. A system comprising:

[0100] a first panel having a first exterior surface and a first interior surface opposite the first exterior surface, wherein the first panel includes a clearance hole extending through the first panel from the first exterior surface to the first interior surface;

[0101] a second panel having a second outer surface and a second inner surface opposite the second outer surface, wherein the second panel includes a through hole extending through the second panel from the second outer surface to the second inner surface, wherein the second panel is arranged relative to the first panel such that at least a first portion of the second inner surface faces a first portion of the first inner surface; and

[0102] A sliding joint assembled from the sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A30, wherein the sliding joint connects the first panel to the second panel at respective locations within a first edge region of the first panel and within a first edge region of the second panel such that the first portion of the second inner surface is in sliding contact with the first portion of the first panel, wherein the fastener is positioned such that it extends through the clearance hole, the through hole, and the gasket.

[0103] B2. The system of paragraph B1, wherein the first panel has a first coefficient of thermal expansion, wherein the second panel has a second coefficient of thermal expansion, and wherein the first coefficient of thermal expansion is different from the second coefficient of thermal expansion.

[0104] B3. A system according to any of paragraphs B1 to B2, wherein the gap holes in the first panel have a first maximum diameter, wherein the through holes in the second panel have a second maximum diameter, and wherein the first maximum diameter is greater than the second maximum diameter.

[0105] B3.1. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B3, wherein the gap aperture comprises a plurality of gap apertures, each respective gap being spaced apart from one another and positioned within the first edge region of the first panel.

[0106] B3.2. The system of paragraph B3.1, wherein the through-hole comprises a plurality of through-holes, each respective through-hole being spaced apart from one another and positioned within the first edge region of the second panel, wherein the system comprises a respective through-hole for each respective clearance hole.

[0107] B3.3. The system of any of paragraphs B3 to B3.2, wherein the first maximum diameter is greater than a fastener diameter of the fastener.

[0108] B3.4. The system of paragraph B3.3, wherein the first maximum diameter is sized relative to the fastener diameter such that the fastener remains spaced apart from the peripheral sidewalls of the clearance hole when the second panel thermally expands relative to the first panel.

[0109] B4. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B3.4, wherein the first portion of the first interior surface is within the first edge region of the first panel.

[0110] B5. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B4, wherein the first portion of the second interior surface is within the first edge region of the second panel.

[0111] B6. A system according to any one of paragraphs B1 to B5, wherein the system is configured such that the sliding joint maintains contact between the first portion of the first inner surface and the first portion of the second inner surface while allowing sliding movement of the first portion of the second inner surface relative to the first portion of the first inner surface.

[0112] B7. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B6, wherein the second panel comprises a second heat shield panel.

[0113] B8. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B7, wherein the first panel comprises a first heat shield panel.

[0114] B8.1. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B8, wherein the first panel includes a plume suppression flange for a heat shield / the heat shield.

[0115] B9. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B8.1, wherein the system is a heat shield for an aircraft.

[0116] B10. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B9, wherein the system is a heat shield plume suppressor for an aircraft.

[0117] B11. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B10, wherein the system is a component of a jet propulsion system.

[0118] B12. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B11, wherein the slip joint comprises a plurality of slip joints.

[0119] B12.1. A system according to paragraph B12, wherein the plurality of sliding joints includes a certain number of sliding joints configured to prevent and / or reduce vibration between the first panel and the second panel adjacent to the first edge region of the first panel and the first edge region of the second panel.

[0120] B12.2. A system according to any of paragraphs B12 to B12.1, wherein the plurality of sliding joints includes a number of sliding joints configured to prevent and / or reduce the ingress of air into a cavity formed between the first panel and the second panel.

[0121] B12.3. The system of any of paragraphs B12 to B12.2, wherein each respective sliding joint of the plurality of sliding joints is positioned at a position of maximum deflection between the first panel and the second panel, respectively.

[0122] B13. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B12.3, wherein the second panel is a bottom panel of the system.

[0123] B14. The system of paragraph B13, wherein the bottom panel further includes a second edge region of the bottom panel, the second edge region of the bottom panel opposite the first edge region of the bottom panel.

[0124] B15. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B14, wherein the first panel comprises a side panel of the system.

[0125] B16. The system of paragraph B15, wherein the side panel comprises a first side panel and a second side panel.

[0126] B17. The system of paragraphs B14 and B16, wherein a plurality of sliding joints / a first portion of the plurality of sliding joints are positioned along the first edge region of the first side panel and the first edge region of the bottom panel, thereby connecting the first edge region of the first side panel in sliding contact with the first edge region of the bottom panel.

[0127] B18. The system of paragraph B17, wherein a second portion of the plurality of sliding joints is positioned along the first edge region of the second side panel and the second edge region of the bottom panel, thereby connecting the first edge region of the second side panel in sliding contact with the second edge region of the bottom panel.

[0128] B18.1. The system of any of paragraphs B17 to B18, wherein the first side panel, the second side panel, and the bottom panel are arranged relative to each other to form a cavity defined by the first side panel, the second side panel, and the bottom panel.

[0129] B18.2. A system according to any of paragraphs B17 to B18.1, wherein the first portion of the plurality of sliding joints includes at least 5, at least 10, at least 15, at least 20, at least 25, at least 30, at least 40 and / or at least 50 sliding joints.

[0130] B18.3. A system according to any of paragraphs B18 to B18.2, wherein the second portion of the plurality of sliding joints includes at least 5, at least 10, at least 15, at least 20, at least 25, at least 30, at least 40 and / or at least 50 sliding joints.

[0131] B18.4. A system according to any of paragraphs B1 to B18.3, wherein the system includes a plurality of internal frames, and wherein the system includes a plurality of sliding joints / respective sliding joints of the plurality of sliding joints positioned at or near a respective midpoint between each respective pair of adjacent internal frames.

[0132] B19. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B18.4, wherein the first edge region of the first panel extends from a first end to a second end.

[0133] B20. The system of paragraph B19, wherein the plurality of sliding joints / the plurality of sliding joints are positioned so that they are spaced apart from one another between the first end of the first panel and the second end of the first panel.

[0134] B21. The system of paragraph B19 or B20, wherein a first respective sliding joint of / the plurality of sliding joints is positioned adjacent the first end of the first panel.

[0135] B22. The system of paragraph B21, wherein a second respective sliding joint of the plurality of sliding joints is positioned adjacent the second end of the first panel.

[0136] B23. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B22, wherein the interstitial pores have a substantially constant diameter.

[0137] B24. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B23, wherein the through-hole is countersunk such that the diameter of the through-hole decreases between the second outer surface to the second inner surface of the second panel.

[0138] B25. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B24, wherein the through-hole is configured to receive the first head portion of the fastener such that an outer fastener surface of the first head portion is substantially flush with the second outer surface of the second panel.

[0139] B26. A system according to any of paragraphs B1 to B25, wherein the sliding joint is substantially fixed relative to the second panel such that when the second panel moves relative to the first panel, the sliding joint is substantially stationary relative to the second panel.

[0140] B26.1. A system according to any of paragraphs B1 to B26, wherein the fastener and the washer of the sliding joint are substantially fixed relative to the second panel so that when the second panel moves relative to the first panel, the fastener and the washer are substantially stationary relative to the second panel.

[0141] B27. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B26.1, wherein the second panel and the sliding joint move relative to the first panel when the second panel moves relative to the first panel.

[0142] B28. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B27, wherein the second panel and the sliding joint move relative to the first panel when the second panel thermally expands relative to the first panel.

[0143] B29. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B28, wherein the system is configured such that thermal expansion of the second panel relative to the first panel does not induce shear loads on the first panel.

[0144] B30. A system according to any one of paragraphs B1 to B29, wherein the sum of the flange radius of the gasket / the flange radius and the fastener diameter of the fastener is greater than the diameter / the diameter of the clearance hole formed in the first panel, through which the fastener extends.

[0145] B30.1. A system according to any one of paragraphs B1 to B30, wherein the sum of the flange radius of the gasket / the flange radius and the rod of the gasket of the sliding joint / the outer rod diameter of the rod / the outer rod diameter is greater than the diameter of the gap hole formed in the first panel / the diameter through which the rod extends.

[0146] B31. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B30.1, wherein a diameter of the clearance hole formed in the first panel is greater than a flange radius of the gasket.

[0147] B32. A system according to any one of paragraphs B1 to B31, wherein the diameter of the gap hole formed in the first panel is / the diameter is more than 25% larger than the fastener diameter / the fastener diameter of the fastener, more than 50% larger than the fastener diameter, more than 75% larger than the fastener diameter, more than 100% larger than the fastener diameter, more than 150% larger than the fastener diameter, more than 200% larger than the fastener diameter, more than 250% larger than the fastener diameter, more than 300% larger than the fastener diameter, more than 400% larger than the fastener diameter and / or more than 500% larger than the fastener diameter.

[0148] B32.1. A system according to any one of paragraphs B1 to B32, wherein the diameter of the gap hole formed in the first panel is / the diameter is more than 25% larger than the diameter of the rod of the washer of the sliding joint / the outer rod of the rod / the outer rod diameter, more than 50% larger than the outer rod diameter, more than 75% larger than the outer rod diameter, more than 100% larger than the outer rod diameter, more than 150% larger than the outer rod diameter, more than 200% larger than the outer rod diameter, more than 250% larger than the outer rod diameter, more than 300% larger than the outer rod diameter, more than 400% larger than the outer rod diameter and / or more than 500% larger than the outer rod diameter.

[0149] B33. The system of any one of paragraphs B1 to B32.1, further comprising a coating on the second inner surface / the second inner surface of the second panel, the first inner surface of the first panel, the first outer surface of the first panel, and / or the lower flange surface / the lower flange surface of the gasket of the sliding joint.

[0150] B34. The system of paragraph B33, wherein the coating is positioned on the first portion of the second interior surface of the second panel and on the first portion of the first interior surface of the first panel.

[0151] B35. The system of paragraph B33 or B34, wherein the coating is configured to prevent wear.

[0152] B36. A system according to any of paragraphs B33 to B35, wherein the coating is configured to reduce friction between respective surfaces in contact with each other.

[0153] B37. The system of any of paragraphs B33 to B36, wherein the coating comprises tungsten carbide.

[0154] B38. A system according to any of paragraphs B1 to B37, wherein the diameter of the clearance hole / the diameter relative to the size of the fastener of the sliding joint is configured to allow a predetermined amount of thermal expansion of the second panel relative to the first panel.

[0155] B38.1. A system according to any of paragraphs B1 to B38, wherein the diameter of the gap hole / the diameter relative to the rod of the gasket of the sliding joint / the size of the rod is configured to allow a predetermined amount of thermal expansion of the second panel relative to the first panel.

[0156] B39. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B38.1, wherein, under nominal temperature conditions, the first edge region of the first panel and the first edge region of the second panel substantially coincide with each other.

[0157] B40. A system according to any one of paragraphs B1 to B39, wherein, under high temperature conditions having a temperature sufficient to cause thermal expansion of the second panel relative to the first panel, the first edge region of the second panel does not overlap with the first edge region of the first panel.

[0158] B41. The system of any of paragraphs B1 to B40, wherein the first panel and the second panel are shaped.

[0159] C1. An aircraft comprising a sliding joint kit according to any of paragraphs A1 to A30, wherein the sliding joint kit is assembled to connect the first panel to the second panel, and wherein the first panel and the second panel are positioned within the aircraft and / or form part of the aircraft.

[0160] C2. The aircraft of paragraph C1, wherein the aircraft includes a system of any of paragraphs B1 to B41.

[0161] D1. A method of connecting a first panel to a second panel, the method comprising:

[0162] positioning a first portion of a first interior surface of the first panel so that it faces and is adjacent to a first portion of a second interior surface of the second panel, wherein the first portion of the first interior surface includes a plurality of clearance holes therethrough, and wherein the first portion of the second interior surface includes a plurality of through-holes therethrough, wherein the second panel includes a corresponding through-hole for each corresponding clearance hole of the first panel, and wherein the first and second panels are aligned with each other such that each corresponding clearance hole and through-hole form a corresponding clearance hole-through-hole pair; and

[0163] Fastening sliding joints at corresponding clearance hole-through hole pairs to connect the first panel to the second panel, wherein fastening the sliding joints includes assembling the sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A30 relative to the first panel and the second panel.

[0164] D1.1. The method of paragraph D1, wherein tightening the slip joint comprises tightening a plurality of slip joints, wherein tightening the plurality of slip joints comprises tightening a respective slip joint of the plurality of slip joints at each respective clearance hole-through hole pair.

[0165] D2. The method of paragraph D1 or D1.1, wherein securing the sliding joint includes positioning the gasket of the sliding joint so that the lower flange surface faces a first outer surface of the first panel, the first outer surface being opposite the first inner surface of the first panel.

[0166] D3. The method of any of paragraphs D1 to D2, wherein tightening the slip joint comprises inserting the fastener through the clearance hole, the through hole, and the center hole of the washer.

[0167] D4. A method according to any one of paragraphs D1 to D3, wherein fastening the sliding joint includes engaging the first head portion of the fastener with the second panel so that the outer fastener surface of the first head portion is substantially flush with the second outer surface of the second panel, and the second outer surface is opposite to the second inner surface of the second panel.

[0168] D5. The method of any of paragraphs D1 to D4, wherein tightening the sliding joints includes tightening a sufficient number of corresponding sliding joints to prevent or reduce vibration between the first panel and the second panel.

[0169] D6. The method of any of paragraphs D1 to D5, wherein tightening the sliding joints includes tightening a sufficient number of corresponding sliding joints to prevent or reduce air from entering a cavity formed between the first panel and the second panel.

[0170] D7. The method of any of paragraphs D1 to D6, wherein tightening the sliding joint comprises tightening a respective sliding joint at each respective midpoint between adjacent inner frames coupled to each respective pair of the first and second panels.

[0171] D8. The method of any of paragraphs D1 to D7, wherein the first panel is a first side panel of a heat shield for an aircraft, wherein the second panel is a bottom panel of the heat shield, and wherein the method further includes connecting the second side panel to the bottom panel using a plurality of sliding joints.

[0172] D8.1. The method of any of paragraphs D1 to D8, wherein the first panel is a first side panel of a plume suppression flange, wherein the second panel is a bottom panel of the plume suppression flange, and wherein the method further includes connecting the second side panel to the bottom panel using a plurality of sliding joints.

[0173] D9. The method of any of paragraphs D1 to D8.1, further comprising exposing the first panel and the second panel to heat such that the second panel thermally expands relative to the first panel.

[0174] D10. The method of any of paragraphs D1 to D9, further comprising drilling the plurality of clearance holes in the first panel.

[0175] D11. The method of any of paragraphs D1 to D10, further comprising drilling the plurality of through holes in the second panel.

[0176] D12. The method of any one of paragraphs D1 to D7, further comprising applying a wear coating to the second inner surface of the second panel, the first inner surface of the first panel, the first outer surface of the first panel, and / or the lower flange surface / the lower flange surface of the gasket of the sliding joint.

[0177] D13. The method of paragraph D12, comprising applying a wear coating on the first portion of the second interior surface of the second panel and on the first portion of the first interior surface of the first panel.

[0178] D14. The method of paragraph D12 or D13, wherein the wear coating is configured to prevent wear.

[0179] D15. The method of any of paragraphs D12 to D14, wherein the wear coating is configured to reduce friction between respective surfaces in contact with each other.

[0180] D16. The method of any of paragraphs D12 to D15, wherein the wear coating comprises tungsten carbide.

[0181] E1. A method of preventing warping in a plume-inhibiting flange of an aircraft, comprising:

[0182] Incorporating the system of any of paragraphs B1 to B41 into the aircraft allows for thermal expansion of the bottom panel of the plume suppression flange relative to the first and second side panels of the plume suppression flange.

[0183] E2. The method according to paragraph E1, further comprising any of the method steps described in paragraphs D1 to D16.

[0184] F1. Use of the sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A30 to connect a first panel to a second panel such that a first portion of the first panel is in sliding contact with a second portion of the second panel.

[0185] G1. Use of the sliding joint kit of any of paragraphs A1 to A30 to prevent warping in a plume-inhibiting flange of an aircraft.

[0186] H1. Use of the system of any of paragraphs B1 to B41 to prevent warping in an aircraft's plume-inhibiting flange.

[0187] As used herein, the terms "adapted to" and "configured" refer to an element, component, or other subject matter that is designed and / or intended to perform a given function. Thus, the use of the terms "adapted to" and "configured" should not be interpreted as meaning that a given element, component, or other subject matter is simply "capable of" performing a given function, but rather as meaning that the element, component, and / or other subject matter is specifically selected, created, implemented, used, programmed, and / or designed for the purpose of performing the function. Moreover, within the scope of the present disclosure, an element, component, or other subject matter described as being adapted to perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as being configured to perform that function, and vice versa. Similarly, a subject described as being configured to perform a particular function may additionally or alternatively be described as being operable to perform that function.

[0188] As used herein, the terms "selective" and "selectively" when modifying the activity, movement, configuration, or other activity of one or more components or features of a device mean that the particular activity, movement, configuration, or other activity is the direct or indirect result of user manipulation of an aspect of the device or one or more components.

[0189] The steps of the various disclosed elements and methods of the devices disclosed herein are not required according to all devices and methods of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and sub-combinations of the various elements and steps disclosed herein. In addition, one or more of the various elements and steps disclosed herein may define an independent invention theme that is separated from the entirety of the disclosed device or method. Therefore, this invention theme need not be associated with the specific devices and methods clearly disclosed herein, and this invention theme may find utility in devices and / or methods that are not clearly disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A system comprising: a first panel having a first exterior surface and a first interior surface opposite the first exterior surface, wherein the first panel includes a clearance hole extending through the first panel from the first exterior surface to the first interior surface; a second panel having a second outer surface and a second inner surface opposite the second outer surface, wherein the second panel includes a through hole extending through the second panel from the second outer surface to the second inner surface, wherein the second panel is arranged relative to the first panel such that at least a first portion of the second inner surface faces a first portion of the first inner surface; and a plurality of sliding joints, wherein the sliding joints connect the first panel to the second panel at respective locations within a first edge region of the first panel and within a first edge region of the second panel such that the first edge region of the second panel is in sliding contact with the first edge region of the first panel, wherein a fastener is positioned such that it extends through the clearance hole, the through hole, and the washer, wherein the clearance hole in the first panel has a first maximum diameter, wherein the through-hole in the second panel has a second maximum diameter, wherein the first maximum diameter is greater than the second maximum diameter, wherein the first maximum diameter of the clearance hole formed in the first panel is greater than a fastener diameter of the fastener, and wherein the first maximum diameter is sized relative to the fastener diameter such that the fastener remains spaced apart from a peripheral sidewall of the clearance hole when the second panel thermally expands relative to the first panel, wherein the clearance diameter of the clearance hole is greater than 25% greater than the fastener diameter, and wherein the sum of a flange radius of the gasket and the fastener diameter is greater than the clearance diameter, The system also includes a threaded collar having internal threads configured to engage a threaded portion of the fastener and engaged with the fastener adjacent the washer, the threaded collar including a torsion element initially coupled to the threaded collar and configured to disengage from the threaded collar under a predetermined preload.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The first panel has a first coefficient of thermal expansion, wherein the second panel has a second coefficient of thermal expansion, and wherein the first coefficient of thermal expansion is different from the second coefficient of thermal expansion.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The gap holes include a plurality of gap holes, each respective gap hole being spaced apart from one another and positioned within the first edge region of the first panel, wherein the through-holes include a plurality of through-holes, each respective through-hole being spaced apart from one another and positioned within the first edge region of the second panel, and wherein the system includes a respective through-hole for each respective gap hole.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein: The system is configured such that the plurality of sliding joints maintain contact between the first portion of the first interior surface and the first portion of the second interior surface while allowing sliding movement of the first portion of the second interior surface relative to the first portion of the first interior surface.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein The second panel is a bottom panel of a heat shield for an aircraft, wherein the first panel is a first side panel for the heat shield, wherein the bottom panel further includes a second edge region of the bottom panel, the second edge region of the bottom panel being opposite to the first edge region of the bottom panel, wherein a first portion of the plurality of sliding joints is positioned along the first edge region of the first side panel and the first edge region of the bottom panel, thereby connecting the first edge region of the first side panel to the first edge region of the bottom panel in sliding contact, and wherein a second portion of the plurality of sliding joints is positioned along the first edge region of the second side panel and the second edge region of the bottom panel, thereby connecting the first edge region of the second side panel to the second edge region of the bottom panel in sliding contact.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein: Each sliding joint of the plurality of sliding joints is substantially fixed relative to the second panel such that when the second panel thermally expands relative to the first panel, each sliding joint is substantially stationary relative to the second panel.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising a wear coating on the first portion of the second inner surface of the second panel, on the first portion of the first inner surface of the first panel, and on a lower flange surface of the gasket.

8. An aircraft comprising: The first panel, the second panel, and the plurality of sliding joints of the system of claim 1.

9. A method of connecting a first panel to a second panel, the method comprising: positioning a first portion of a first interior surface of the first panel so that it faces and is adjacent to a first portion of a second interior surface of the second panel, wherein the first portion of the first interior surface includes a plurality of clearance holes therethrough, and wherein the first portion of the second interior surface includes a plurality of through-holes therethrough, wherein the second panel includes a corresponding through-hole for each corresponding clearance hole of the first panel, and wherein the first and second panels are aligned relative to each other such that each corresponding clearance hole and through-hole form a corresponding clearance hole-through-hole pair; and fastening a sliding joint at corresponding clearance hole-through hole pairs to connect the first panel to the second panel, wherein fastening the sliding joint comprises assembling the sliding joint relative to the first and second panels, wherein a fastener is positioned such that it extends through the clearance hole, the through hole, and the washer, wherein the clearance hole in the first panel has a first maximum diameter, wherein the through-hole in the second panel has a second maximum diameter, wherein the first maximum diameter is greater than the second maximum diameter, wherein the first maximum diameter of the clearance hole formed in the first panel is greater than a fastener diameter of the fastener, and wherein the first maximum diameter is sized relative to the fastener diameter such that the fastener remains spaced apart from a peripheral sidewall of the clearance hole when the second panel thermally expands relative to the first panel, wherein the clearance diameter of the clearance hole is greater than 25% greater than the fastener diameter, and wherein the sum of a flange radius of the gasket and the fastener diameter is greater than the clearance diameter, A threaded collar has internal threads configured to engage a threaded portion of a fastener and engages the fastener adjacent the washer, the threaded collar including a torsion element initially coupled to the threaded collar and configured to disengage from the threaded collar under a predetermined preload.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein: Tightening the slip joint includes tightening a plurality of slip joints, wherein tightening the plurality of slip joints includes tightening a respective slip joint of the plurality of slip joints at each respective clearance hole-through hole pair.

11. The method according to claim 9, wherein The first panel is a first side panel of a heat shield for an aircraft, wherein the second panel is a bottom panel of the heat shield, and wherein the method further comprises connecting the second side panel to the bottom panel using a plurality of sliding joints.

12. The method of claim 9, further comprising applying a wear coating on the first portion of the second inner surface of the second panel, on the first portion of the first inner surface of the first panel, and on a lower flange surface of the gasket.

13. The method according to claim 9, wherein: Fastening the sliding joint includes positioning a washer of the sliding joint so that a lower flange surface of the washer faces a first outer surface of the first panel, the first outer surface being opposite the first inner surface of the first panel, and wherein fastening the sliding joint includes inserting a fastener through the clearance hole, the through hole, and the center hole of the washer.

14. The method according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein Fastening the slip joint includes engaging a first head portion of a fastener with the second panel such that an outer fastener surface of the first head portion is substantially flush with a second outer surface of the second panel, the second outer surface opposing the second inner surface of the second panel.

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