Aerospace Ferrule With Internal Locking Pockets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ferrule systems in aerospace applications require lockwire for securing connections, which can be hazardous, costly, and prone to loosening due to vibrations and wear, necessitating a more reliable and lockwire-free solution.
Innovation Solution
A ferrule design featuring a first and second tubular portion with a transition portion and circumferentially spaced pockets on the second tubular portion to engage an internal locking mechanism of a nut, eliminating the need for lockwire by providing anti-rotation force through the nut's engagement mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If lockwire is used to secure the nut to the ferrule, then the connection is restrained from loosening, but the system becomes hazardous, costly, and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the lockwire from the system by integrating the locking function directly into the nut through internal locking mechanisms (such as locking lugs or cam mechanisms) that engage with corresponding features on the ferrule. This removes the separate lockwire component while maintaining the anti-loosening function, thereby reducing complexity and hazard without compromising connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function previously performed by the separate lockwire is merged into the nut itself through internal locking mechanisms. The nut now combines both the fastening function (threaded engagement) and the locking function (internal anti-rotation features) into a single integrated component, eliminating the need for additional lockwire and reducing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If lockwire is used to prevent nut rotation, then anti-rotation is achieved, but costs increase and safety hazards arise
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the hazardous lockwire element from the system while preserving the anti-rotation capability through internal locking mechanisms within the nut. The locking lugs or cam mechanisms engage with the ferrule to prevent nut rotation without requiring the separate lockwire that poses safety hazards during installation and maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention converts the potential harm of lockwire (safety hazards, complexity) into benefit by designing an internal locking mechanism that is inherently safer and more integrated. The internal locking features provide the same anti-rotation protection without the hazards associated with loose lockwire, transforming a hazardous external element into a safe internal mechanism.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional ferrule design is used, then compatibility with existing systems is maintained, but lockwire requirements increase complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the locking function into the nut itself, creating an integrated fastening and locking system that maintains compatibility with existing ferrule designs while eliminating the need for separate lockwire. The internal locking mechanisms work with standard ferrule geometries, preserving adaptability while reducing overall system complexity by consolidating functions into fewer components.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2D
AI summary
A ferrule (10) for use with a nut (32) with an internal locking mechanism (34) includes a first tubular portion (12) with a first end (18) and a first outer diameter for connecting to a first object (26); a second tubular portion (14) with a second end (22) and a second outer diameter for connecting to a second object (28); a transition portion (16) connecting the first tubular portion and the second tubular portion; and a plurality of pockets (24) spaced circumferentially around the second portion (14) to engage the internal locking mechanism (34) of the nut (32).