Aircraft Engine Cover with Remote Handling Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft gas turbine engines are vulnerable to foreign objects and adverse weather conditions when not in operation, and conventional protective covers require multiple operators and can pose safety concerns due to the need for ladder use, especially in adverse weather.
Innovation Solution
A kit comprising a cover with a base having an arcuate lower surface to fit snugly into the engine casing and a deployable panel, along with a handling tool that allows a single operator to remotely manipulate the panel from the ground, eliminating the need for ladders and facilitating easy installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional protective covers are used to cover engine openings, then effective protection is provided, but multiple operators are required and safety concerns arise due to ladder use
Solution Approach 1:
A handling tool acts as an intermediary between the operator and the cover panel. The tool includes a handle portion and an operative end with engagement features that connect to the panel's handling features, allowing the operator to manipulate the panel from a remote location without direct contact or ladder use.
2Reliability
If conventional protective covers are used to cover engine openings, then effective protection is provided, but multiple operators are required for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The handling tool extracts the manual manipulation function from the installation process. By providing remote handling capabilities, the system eliminates the need for multiple operators to physically position and secure the cover, reducing human resources required while maintaining installation effectiveness.
3Reliability
If the panel is made deployable to close the opening, then protection is achieved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The cover panel transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one with movable capabilities. The panel is articurately connected to the base, allowing it to move between a deployed position (providing protection) and a retracted position (facilitating installation and storage), enabling functional adaptability without permanent complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel can be positioned in a retracted or nested state adjacent to the base when not in use, allowing the cover to occupy minimal space during storage and installation while providing full coverage when deployed.
Data Source
AI summary
A protective cover for an aircraft engine comprises a lower portion mountable to a corresponding lower portion of an opening of the engine, and an upper portion articulated to the lower portion. The upper portion is deployable from a collapsed position to a deployed position in which the upper portion extends upwardly from the lower portion. A handling tool may be used to operate the panel from a remote location on the ground.