Aircraft Engine Suspension Arch with Pivot Link
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current jet engine suspension systems on aircraft suffer from aerodynamic inefficiencies due to the width of the beam, which affects airflow and cannot incorporate swivel-jointed links without increasing dimensions, compromising both width and height constraints.
Innovation Solution
A suspension system featuring a beam with a trapezoid shape and a suspension arch linked by a pivot link, allowing for reduced beam width and improved aerodynamic efficiency by moving links away from the beam, with a pivot link and link rods providing isostatic support and thermal compensation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a beam with swivel-jointed links is used for engine suspension, then the forces can be transmitted axially and thermal expansions can be absorbed, but the beam width increases which disturbs the airstream and reduces aerodynamic efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the swivel-jointed links from a lateral arrangement (increasing beam width in the Y-direction) to a vertical arrangement along the engine axis (utilizing the Z-direction). This dimensional change allows the links to maintain their force transmission and thermal expansion absorption functions while eliminating their interference with the lateral airstream, thus resolving the aerodynamic disturbance problem.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the beam width is reduced to improve aerodynamic efficiency, then the airstream circulation is improved, but the swivel-jointed links cannot be incorporated without increasing dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by moving the swivel-jointed links into the vertical dimension along the engine axis, allowing them to be integrated into a narrower beam structure without lateral protrusion. This enables the beam width to be reduced for aerodynamic efficiency while the links remain functional for force transmission and thermal compensation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs pivot links that allow rotational movement, enabling the suspension structure to adapt dynamically to thermal expansions and mechanical forces. This dynamic capability is integrated into a compact design that does not require increased beam dimensions, thus maintaining aerodynamic efficiency while providing the necessary mechanical flexibility.
3Ease of operation
If the beam height is increased to accommodate swivel-jointed links, then the links can be positioned vertically, but the height is constrained by wing height and engine height relative to the ground
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the longitudinal dimension along the engine axis (X-direction) to position the swivel-jointed links, rather than requiring increased beam height (Z-direction) or width (Y-direction). This allows the links to be arranged vertically relative to the engine axis while maintaining compliance with the constrained beam height requirements imposed by wing and ground clearance limitations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution reduces aerodynamic disturbances, enhances fuel efficiency, and maintains structural integrity while adhering to dimensional constraints, offering a more reliable and aerodynamically optimized suspension system.
Implementation Method 1
linked to the beam by at least one pivot link whose axis is intended to be parallel to the axis of the engine
Data Source
AI summary
A suspension for an engine on an aircraft strut is disclosed. The suspension includes a beam with a plate provided with a fixing device for fixing to the strut; and a suspension arch linked to the beam by at least one pivot link whose axis is intended to be parallel to the axis of the engine. The suspension arch having, at each of its ends, a fixing device for fixing to a case of the engine.