Adjustable Fork Towing System for Helicopter Wheel Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft towing systems are not adaptable to various aircraft types due to fixed spacing between the fork's side members, which cannot accommodate different wheel dimensions and configurations.
Innovation Solution
A towing system with a fork and spacer device that allows adjustable spacing between side members, using sliding arms and an actuation mechanism to modify the distance, along with a holding device to securely engage the aircraft wheel, enabling adaptation to different aircraft types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the spacing between the fork's side members is fixed, then the structure is simple and robust, but the system cannot accommodate different wheel dimensions and configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the spacing between the fork's side members adjustable rather than fixed. The side members can be moved relative to each other along the bar to accommodate different wheel dimensions and configurations, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that adapts to various aircraft types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the fork structure into separable components - the bar and the side members - that can be independently positioned. This allows the side members to be spaced at different distances from each other while remaining part of the same fork assembly, enabling adaptability without complete redesign.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the spacing between side members is made adjustable, then the system can accommodate various wheel configurations, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by providing a mechanism that allows the side members to be dynamically repositioned along the bar. This adjustment mechanism enables the spacing to be changed according to the specific wheel dimensions being accommodated, making the system versatile while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing the fork with an adjustable spacing mechanism that can accommodate multiple types of wheels with different dimensions. The same fork structure can be configured for different aircraft types, making it a multi-functional device that replaces the need for multiple specialized forks.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
- Said towing system (1) comprises a bar, a first attachment device (3) disposed at a first end of the bar (4), the first attachment device (3) being suitable for attaching the towing system to a towing vehicle, a second attachment device (2) disposed at a second end of the bar (4), the second attachment device (2) being suitable for attaching the towing system (1) to a rolling machine to be towed, the second attachment device (2) comprising a fork suitable for retaining at least one wheel (5) of the rolling machine, the fork having two longitudinal members between which at least one wheel (5) of the rolling machine is suitable for being received, a spacing device (7) suitable for modifying the spacing between the two longitudinal members and a holding device suitable for retaining the wheel (5) between the two longitudinal members.