Aircraft Ceiling Support Structure with Adjustable Fitting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing secondary support structures for aircraft crown portions are costly, labor-intensive to install, and inefficiently utilize variable configurations, leading to increased weight and complexity in supporting aircraft equipment and linings.
Innovation Solution
A support system comprising a crown integration panel (CIP) made of honeycomb and sheet metal, with dual-bracketed support systems and self-aligning attachments that allow for easier installation and adjustment to accommodate build tolerances, enabling efficient attachment and alignment of aircraft equipment and panels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a lattice structure is used to support equipment and linings, then stable and variable configurations are achieved, but the structure becomes expensive, heavy, and difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple adjustable support members that can be independently positioned and configured. Each support member can be adjusted to different locations along the crown rails, allowing the structure to be segmented and reconfigured without moving the entire lattice system.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure incorporates adjustable and movable components that allow dynamic reconfiguration. The support members can be moved along the crown rails and positioned at various locations, providing adaptability while maintaining a lighter weight compared to a fixed lattice structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a lattice structure is used to support equipment and linings, then stable and variable configurations are achieved, but installation becomes time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The support members are pre-assembled with equipment and linings outside the aircraft before installation. This preliminary assembly reduces the complexity of installation inside the aircraft and allows for more efficient configuration without requiring extensive in-situ adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure is divided into modular segments that can be independently assembled and then quickly installed. This segmentation allows parallel assembly processes and reduces the overall installation time compared to assembling a complete lattice structure in place.
3Reliability
If conventional sheet metal construction is used for support brackets, then electrical grounding and bonding are provided, but larger scale structures require additional stiffening elements that increase cost and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The support brackets utilize composite material construction that combines the electrical conductivity of metal components with the lightweight properties of composite structures. This allows larger scale brackets to achieve adequate rigidity without requiring excessive metal stiffening elements, thereby reducing weight while maintaining electrical grounding capabilities.
4Strength
If existing secondary structures are used to support ceiling panels, then support is provided, but attaching and aligning panels becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The support members incorporate self-aligning features that automatically position ceiling panels correctly during installation. The adjustable mechanisms allow the panels to self-align with the support structure, eliminating the need for repetitive tightening, loosening, and adjustment operations required by existing structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure includes dynamically adjustable components that can be easily modified during panel installation. This adjustability allows for quick alignment and positioning of ceiling panels without requiring multiple installation cycles, significantly reducing the time and labor required for panel attachment.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
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AI summary
A system for adjusting a height of a ceiling panel in an aircraft and a corresponding method is disclosed. The system includes an arm and at least one ceiling support latch, wherein each of the at least one ceiling support latches is attached to the arm. The system further includes an adjustable fitting attached to the arm, wherein the adjustable fitting includes (i) a first sliding block attached to the arm, (ii) a second sliding block attached to a support structure, and (iii) an adjustment screw. Adjustment of the adjustment screw forces the first and second sliding blocks to move relative to one another.