TESTING OF FLAMMABLE LIQUID DRAINAGE IN THE FLOOR

Abstract

Procedures and equipment for carrying out tests on the drainage of flammable liquids are provided.A device for performing tests of the drainage of flammable liquids on a test object comprises a backbone configured to receive a coupon; a first wall structure configured to engage with the backbone to form a first chamber; a second wall structure configured to engage with the backbone to form a second chamber opposite the first chamber; a nozzle device configured to spray a liquid into the first chamber and onto the test object; a vacuum device configured to create a pressure differential between the first and second chambers; a leg securing the backbone to a base; and a vibrating platform configured to apply an excitation input to the test object.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The technical field relates generally to the testing of the drainage of flammable liquids and in particular to a device for carrying out tests of the drainage of flammable liquids on a ground-supported test object, as well as to methods for carrying out such tests. BACKGROUND

[0002] Various authorities around the world are responsible for establishing and enforcing civil aviation regulations. These regulations include extensive safety requirements for transport aircraft. Implementing and enforcing these civil aviation regulations is significantly more complex and costly than the regulations issued by other regulatory bodies for land and water vehicles.

[0003] Required tests for transport category aircraft include flammability tests. These tests apply to various components regarding their use and sometimes also regarding the materials from which the components are made.

[0004] For example, a test for the drainage of flammable liquids requires that cells or areas of an aircraft are sufficiently sealed from adjacent areas so that liquids, such as flammable liquids, cannot flow between the areas. In other words, the test ensures that a flammable liquid remains contained within a single area in the event of a fire.

[0005] Therefore, certain tests require creating flight conditions around a test object while simultaneously determining whether the test object is liquid-tight, i.e., whether any liquid flows through the test object.

[0006] Such tests are usually carried out during test flights, which can involve prohibitive costs.

[0007] Accordingly, it is desirable to provide devices and methods for testing the flow of flammable liquids that solve one or more of the aforementioned problems. Furthermore, other desirable features and properties of the various embodiments described herein will become apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying claims in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and this background information. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] This document provides various non-restrictive embodiments of methods and devices for carrying out soil tests for the drainage of flammable liquids.

[0009] In a first non-restrictive embodiment, a device for performing drainage tests for flammable liquids on a test object comprises a backbone configured to accommodate a coupon; a first wall structure configured to engage with the backbone to form a first chamber; a second wall structure configured to engage with the backbone to form a second chamber opposite the first chamber; a nozzle device configured to spray a liquid into the first chamber and onto the coupon; a vacuum device configured to generate a pressure differential between the first chamber and the second chamber; a leg securing the backbone to a base; and a vibrating platform configured to exert excitation on the coupon.

[0010] In certain embodiments of the device, the backbone is rotatably attached to the leg so that the test object can be positioned in a desired plane relative to a floor surface.

[0011] In certain embodiments of the device, the coupon includes a test object that is subjected to a test of flammable liquid drainage, or is configured to hold it.

[0012] In certain embodiments of the device, the second wall structure includes a transparent window for viewing the coupon.

[0013] In certain embodiments, the device further comprises a spacer structure arranged between the backbone and the second wall structure.

[0014] In certain embodiments, the device further comprises a spacer structure arranged between the backbone and the second wall structure, wherein the spacer structure is designed with a curved surface to accommodate a curved coupon.

[0015] In certain embodiments of the device, the first wall structure is designed with a drain, and the device further comprises a return tank for receiving the liquid from the drain and a flow regulator for directing the liquid from the return tank through the nozzle device.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the device further includes a sensor located in the first chamber to monitor the pressure.

[0017] In a further, non-limiting embodiment, a method for performing a drainage test for flammable liquids comprises attaching a test object to a backbone; connecting a first wall structure to a backbone to form a first chamber, wherein a liquid side of the test object is in liquid communication with the first chamber; connecting a second wall structure to the backbone to form a second chamber opposite the first chamber, wherein a pressure side of the test object is in liquid communication with the second chamber; spraying a liquid into the first chamber and onto the test object; changing a pressure in the second chamber to create a pressure differential across the test object; and monitoring the test object to determine whether the liquid is leaking through the test object into the second chamber.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the method further includes applying an excitation input to the test object using a vibration device.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the method further includes rotating the backbone about a horizontal axis to position the test object in a desired plane.

[0020] In certain embodiments of the method, the test object is curved, and the method further includes arranging a curved spacer between the test object and the spine.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the method further includes monitoring the pressure with a sensor in the second chamber.

[0022] In certain embodiments of the method, the test object is an aircraft component.

[0023] In a further, non-restrictive embodiment, a method for performing a drainage test for flammable liquids comprises supporting a test object on a backbone; forming a first chamber on a first side of the test object; forming a second chamber on a second side of the test object; spraying a liquid in the first chamber onto the first side of the test object; applying a vacuum in the second chamber and on the second side of the test object; and monitoring the second side of the test object to determine whether liquid is leaking from the first side to the second side.

[0024] In certain embodiments, the method further includes attaching the backbone to a vibrating device and applying an excitation input to the test object using the vibrating device.

[0025] In certain embodiments, the method further includes rotatably attaching the spine to two legs and rotating the spine to position the test object in a desired plane during testing.

[0026] In certain embodiments, the method further includes adjusting the pressure in the second chamber during the drainage test for flammable liquids.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the method further includes monitoring the pressure with a sensor in the second chamber.

[0028] In certain embodiments, the method further includes returning the liquid from the first chamber in order to spray it again onto the first side of the test object.

[0029] The embodiments described herein provide for several test combinations of pressure, vibration and flow rate during the execution of a test. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The various embodiments are described below in conjunction with the following figures, where the same reference numerals denote the same elements and where: Fig. 1 is an exploded view showing a bottom testing device for draining flammable liquids according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 2 a non-explosion perspective view of the test device 100 from Fig. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. 3 a non-explosion perspective view of the test device 100 from Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 after rotating the spine around the axis of rotation according to an exemplary embodiment; Fig. Figure 4 is a schematic view of a test device according to an exemplary embodiment; and Fig. Figure 5 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a test device for use with a curved test object according to an exemplary embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The following detailed description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the various embodiments or their application and use. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by the theories set forth in the preceding background description or the following detailed description.

[0032] The exemplary embodiments described herein are intended for use with fairings or other components of vehicles, for example aircraft or the like.

[0033] Exemplary embodiments provide a device and method for testing flammable fluid drainage (FFD) on the ground. Performing flammable fluid drainage on the ground, rather than during test flights, reduces costs and allows for rapid responses to design changes to achieve an aircraft configuration. For example, the tests can be largely conducted on the ground, allowing any identified fluid leaks to be rectified by additional sealant or design modifications. Subsequently, a single test flight can be performed to confirm that all leaks were detected during the ground testing.

[0034] An exemplary device accommodates coupons that simulate areas where a spillage of flammable liquids is a concern. Furthermore, the exemplary device allows liquid to be sprayed onto one side of the coupon while a vacuum is applied to the other. The exemplary device also allows for the application of vibrations. Additionally, the orientation of the coupon relative to the vibration plane and intensity can be selected and adjusted. The pressure and liquid flow rates can be controlled, and all data can be monitored and recorded. The exemplary device allows for the inspection of both sides of the coupon during testing.

[0035] Fig. Figure 1 is an exploded view of a test device 100. Fig. Figure 2 is a non-explosion perspective view of the test fixture 100. Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 3 is a non-explosion perspective view of test fixture 100. Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, after the spine has been rotated around the axis of rotation.

[0036] With reference to the Fig. In 1-3, the test fixture 100 is configured to accommodate a test object 200. The test object 200 can be a fully stacked element comprising a multitude of interconnected components. For example, the test object 200 can include all the components arranged in a section of an aircraft. The test object can be essentially planar and relatively thin, or it can have features that extend outward from the plane of the test object.

[0037] As shown, the test object 200 is received in a coupon 300. The coupon 300 can, for example, be configured with an opening 310 dimensioned to receive the test object 200. The test object 200 can overlap the coupon 300 around the opening 310 and be fastened to the coupon 300 with fasteners 220. In this arrangement, neither a first side 201 nor a second side 202 of the test object 200 is covered by the coupon 300. Furthermore, the test object 200 can be mounted on base plates to fit into any of the standard device sizes.

[0038] As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 1-3, the coupon 300 can be received and attached to a backbone 400. As shown, the backbone 400 also has a central opening 410. The first side 201 of the test object 200 is inserted into the central opening 410. To connect the test object 300 and the backbone 400, the backbone 400 includes projections 450, for example, bolts, which are received in and penetrate bores or holes 350 in the test object 300. A seal can be arranged between the test object 300 and the backbone 400.

[0039] In addition, two wall structures 500 and 600 are provided to enclose the test object 200 within the device 100.

[0040] For example, the wall structure 500 is connected to the coupon 300 and can compress the coupon 300 between the backbone 400 and the wall structure 500. As shown, the wall structure 500 comprises vertical supports 510 connected to each other by lateral supports 520. Furthermore, an external transparent window 530 is sealed to the supports 510 and 520. A gasket 580 can be arranged between the wall structure 500 and the coupon 300. As shown, the gasket 580 and the wall structure 500 have bores or holes 550 to accommodate the projections 450 for connection to the backbone 400. Fasteners 590, such as nuts, can be tightened to enclose a fluid-tight chamber 599 between the window 530 and the coupon 300 and the test object 200 located therein.

[0041] As shown, the window 530 can be configured with a print data port 911 and a print application port 951. Alternatively, the ports 911 and 951 can be configured as shown in the lateral support 520 or in another structure that bounds the chamber 599.

[0042] Furthermore, the wall structure 600 is connected to the backbone 400. As shown, the wall structure 600 comprises vertical supports 610, which are connected to each other by lateral supports 620. In addition, an external transparent window 630 is sealed to the supports 610 and 620. A gasket may be located between the wall structure 600 and the backbone 400. As shown, the wall structure 600 includes bores or holes 650 to receive the projections 450 for connection to the backbone 400. Fasteners, such as nuts, may be tightened to enclose a chamber 699 between the window 630 and the coupon 300 and the test object 200 located therein. The window 630 may be provided with vents 680 to ensure the ambient pressure in the chamber 699.

[0043] Nozzle devices 800 are provided in a desired arrangement on and through the window 630 and are configured to spray liquid onto the test object 200 inside the chamber 699. Furthermore, the lower lateral support 620 of the wall structure 600 can be designed with a pocket 660 that leads to a drain 670 for removing liquid from the chamber 699.

[0044] As further shown, the backbone 400 and / or the wall structures 500 and 600 are supported by a frame 700. The frame 700 comprises a base 710 and legs 720 extending upwards from the base 710. As shown, a swivel mount 750 is located at the upper end of each leg 720 and is connected to the backbone 400 and / or the wall structures 500 and 600. This allows the backbone 400 and / or the wall structures 500 and 600, as well as the test object 200 attached therein, to be positioned in any plane passing through the axis of rotation 751 of the swivel mount 750. The swivel mount 750 can include a motor to rotate according to a program or at the request of a controller or user. Furthermore, the swivel mount 750 can be locked at any desired angle to maintain the connection without further rotation.

[0045] Fig. Figure 4 also shows a schematic diagram of the device 100. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the base 710 of the frame 700 is mounted on and attached to a vibrating device 900, for example, a vibrating table or a vibrating platform. The vibrating device 900 may be mounted on wheels or include wheels to facilitate easy transport of the device 100. As shown, the vibrating device 900 rests on the base 901. The vibrating device 900 is configured to apply an excitation input to the test object 200. The vibrating device 900 can shake and / or vibrate, thereby generating the excitation input that is transmitted to the test object 200.

[0046] In the device 100 from Fig. A pipe 810 or hose is provided for conveying liquid 99 from the drain 670 in the wall structure 600. The pipe 810 conveys the liquid 99 to a return tank 820. A flow regulator 840 removes liquid 99 from the return tank 820 through a hose 830. A pump 835 may be provided to pump liquid 99 through the hose 830. The flow regulator 840 also directs the liquid 99 through a hose 850 to nozzle devices 800. The nozzle devices 800 are configured to spray the liquid 99 onto the test object 200 held in a test chamber 699. A flow meter 855 may be provided on the hose 850 to monitor the flow rate of the liquid 99.

[0047] As in Fig. As further shown in Figure 4, a pressure device 990 is provided, which is in fluid communication with the chamber 599. The pressure device 990 can be a vacuum device configured to reduce the pressure within the chamber 599. As a result, a pressure differential can be applied across the test object 200.

[0048] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, a vacuum amplifier or regulator 910 can be connected between the pressure device 990 and the chamber 599, in particular via the one shown in Figure 4. Fig. Connection 911 shown in section 2. As in Fig. As shown further in Figure 4, a voltage-pressure converter or E / P converter 920 can be functionally connected to the controller 910. Furthermore, a potentiometer 930 can be functionally connected to the E / P converter 920.

[0049] As arranged, the potentiometer 930 can be used to control the vacuum exerted on the chamber 599 by the pressure device 990. In particular, the potentiometer 930 can adjust a voltage or signal fed into the E / P converter 920, thereby varying the output pressure of the E / P converter 920 to the controller 910 and the controlled pressure exerted on the chamber 599.

[0050] As in Fig. As further shown in Figure 4, the device 100 can comprise a pressure sensor, for example a pressure transducer 950, which is connected to the chamber 599, in particular via the one shown in Fig. Connection 951 shown in section 2. Fig. 4. A pressure transducer 950 can be provided to convert the chamber pressure into an electrical pressure signal. As shown, the pressure transducer 950 is electrically connected to a data acquisition system 970 and can transmit the electrical pressure signal to the data acquisition system 970. Furthermore, a transducer 980 can be arranged on the frame 700, for example, on the base 710 of the frame 700. The transducer 980 can be an accelerometer configured to generate an electrical output signal from a mechanical acceleration input, for example, the excitation from the vibrating device 900. As shown, the transducer 980 is electrically connected to the data acquisition system 970 and can transmit the electrical output signal to the data acquisition system 970. As arranged, the data acquisition system 970 can monitor the pressure in the chamber 599 and the mechanical excitation in the chamber 599.

[0051] In Fig. 5 The device 100 is provided with structures for adaptation for use with curved test objects. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the coupon 300 is curved, such that it has the same curvature as the test object. As shown, the wall structure 500 is provided with a first spacer 501, the outer surface of which corresponds to the curvature of the coupon 300. The first spacer 501 is located between the backbone 400 and the coupon 300. Furthermore, the wall structure 500 is provided with a second spacer 502, the inner surface of which corresponds to the curvature of the coupon 300. The second spacer 502 is located between the coupon 300 and the window 530. Thus, the wall structure 500 can enclose a chamber 599 around a curved test object.

[0052] From the Fig.It is evident from 1-5 that the device 100 can be designed to perform a test on a test object of any dimensions and shape. Furthermore, the device 100 can be operated to apply a desired quantity of liquid to the test object 200 for a desired duration and according to a pattern that may vary; apply a desired pressure differential or differentials across the test object 200; exert a desired acceleration from the vibrating device on the test object 200; and position the test object 200 on one or more desired planes of rotation during the test.

[0053] In an exemplary embodiment, a method comprises forming the coupon 300 as a test object 200 or together with the test object 200. The coupon 300 can be designed with a universal circumference for connecting to the backbone 400.

[0054] Based on the test object, a depth for testing the test object is determined. In the procedure, chambers 599 and / or 699 are prepared by assembling the wall structures 500 and 600 with a sufficient depth to hold the test object.

[0055] After the appropriate device 100 has been assembled from a coupon 300, a wall structure 500, and a wall structure 600 with the desired dimensions suitable for use with the test object, the device 100 is mounted on the rotating bracket 750, which rests on the frame 700, which is located on the vibrating device 900. Furthermore, the flow regulator 840 and the pressure device 990 are connected to their respective chambers 699 and 599.

[0056] A test procedure can then be selected. For example, a start time, flow rate, and flow duration for spraying liquid onto the test object 200 can be selected. During the test, various pressure differentials can be applied. For example, a first pressure differential can be applied at a desired start time and for a desired duration, and a second pressure differential can be applied at a desired start time and for a desired duration. Any suitable differential pressure values ​​can be used. Furthermore, the vibration device 900 can apply a desired excitation input at a desired start time and for a desired duration. In addition, the rotary device 750 can rotate the test object 200 at specified times during the test procedure into a desired position, then into a second desired position, and into any number of consecutive desired positions.

[0057] The procedure involves video recording or viewing chamber 599 and the test object 200 contained therein through window 530 to determine where a fluid leak occurs in the test object. Since the test procedure is performed on the ground, the test object can be immediately modified, for example, by adding sealant at selected points or even by redesigning components. The tests and modifications can be repeated until the test object passes the test procedure without leaks. Subsequently, a test flight can be conducted to confirm that all test objects are leak-free under flight conditions.

[0058] As described herein, the test apparatus can be used to simulate all conditions to which the test object may be exposed during flight. Thus, the test apparatus enables a cost-effective simulation of flight conditions for testing a test object for the leakage of flammable liquids.

[0059] Although at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description of the disclosure, it should be noted that there are numerous variations. It should also be noted that the exemplary embodiment or embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description is intended to provide the person skilled in the art with practical guidance for implementing an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. It is understood that various modifications to the function and arrangement of the elements described in an exemplary embodiment may be made without deviating from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

[1] A device for carrying out a test of the drainage of flammable liquids on a test object, wherein the device comprises: a spine configured to receive a coupon; a first wall structure configured to engage with the spine to form a first chamber; a second wall structure configured to engage with the spine to form a second chamber opposite the first chamber; a nozzle device configured to spray a liquid into the first chamber and onto the test object; a vacuum device configured to create a pressure difference between the first chamber and the second chamber; a leg that attaches the spine to a base; and a vibration platform configured to apply a stimulus input to the coupon. [2] The device according to claim 1, wherein the spine is rotatably attached to the leg so that the test object can be positioned in a desired plane relative to a floor surface. [3] The device according to claim 1, wherein the coupon comprises or is configured to hold a test object which is subjected to a drainage test of flammable liquids. [4] The device according to claim 1, wherein the second wall structure comprises a transparent window for viewing the coupon. [5] The device according to claim 1, which further comprises a spacer structure arranged between the backbone and the second wall structure. [6] The device according to claim 1, further comprising a spacer structure arranged between the backbone and the second wall structure, wherein the spacer structure is designed with a curved surface to accommodate a curved coupon. [7] The device according to claim 1, wherein the first wall structure is designed with a drain and wherein the device further comprises: a return tank to collect the liquid from the drain; and a flow regulator to direct the liquid from the return tank through the nozzle device. [8] The device according to claim 1, which further comprises a sensor arranged in the first chamber to monitor the pressure. [9] A method for carrying out a test of a drainage system for flammable liquids, the method comprising: Attaching a test object to a spine; Connecting a first wall structure to the backbone to form a first chamber, with one fluid side of the test object in fluid communication with the first chamber; Connecting a second wall structure to the backbone to form a second chamber opposite the first chamber, with one pressure side of the test object in fluid communication with the second chamber; Spraying a liquid into the first chamber and onto the test object; Changing the pressure in the second chamber to create a pressure difference across the test object; and Monitoring the test object to determine if liquid is leaking through the test object into the second chamber. [10] The method according to claim 9, which further comprises applying an excitation input to the test object using a vibration device. [11] The method according to claim 9, which further comprises rotating the spine about a horizontal axis to position the test object in a desired plane. [12] The method according to claim 9, wherein the test object is curved and wherein the method further comprises arranging a curved spacer between the test object and the spine. [13] The method according to claim 9, which further comprises monitoring the pressure with a sensor in the second chamber. [14] The method according to claim 9, wherein the test object is an aircraft component. [15] A method for carrying out a test of a drainage system for flammable liquids, the method comprising: the bracing of a test object on a spine; Forming a first chamber on a first side of the test object; Forming a second chamber on a second side of the test object; Spraying a liquid in the first chamber onto the first side of the test object; Creating a negative pressure in the second chamber and on the second side of the test object; and Monitoring the second side of the test object to determine if liquid leaks from the first side to the second side. [16] The method of claim 15, which further comprises: Securing the spine to a vibrating device; and Applying a stimulus input to the test object using the vibration device. [17] The method of claim 15, which further comprises: rotatable attachment of the spine to two legs; and Rotating the spine to position the test object in a desired plane during testing. [18] The method according to claim 15, which further comprises: setting a pressure in the second chamber during the testing of the drainage of flammable liquids. [19] The method according to claim 15, which further comprises monitoring a pressure with a sensor in the second chamber. [20] The method according to claim 15, further comprising returning the liquid from the first chamber in order to spray it again onto the first side of the test object.

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