Aircraft Fastener Alignment Tool Using Pitch Roll Yaw Readings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for aligning fastener assemblies in aircraft, such as those used for head-up display projectors, are inefficient and costly due to the need for expensive and complex tools, and the inability to adjust assemblies once epoxy potting material has cured, requiring time-consuming and costly reinstallation processes.
Innovation Solution
A tool and method that utilize a base with an instrument platform and alignment portion, taking pitch, roll, and yaw readings to position and adjust captive fasteners relative to a reference datum, allowing for adjustable fastener assemblies without potting material, enabling quick alignment verification and reconfiguration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If expensive and complicated tools like laser trackers and total stations are used for alignment, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified replica alignment tool that copies the essential functionality of expensive laser trackers and total stations. The alignment tool uses a reference datum and measurement features that replicate the alignment capabilities of sophisticated equipment without requiring the complex optics and electronics of laser-based systems
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces expensive, sophisticated alignment equipment with a simple, inexpensive alignment tool that can be easily manufactured and discarded if needed. The tool uses basic mechanical components like a base, reference datum, and measurement features rather than costly laser emitters and detectors
2Reliability
If fastener assemblies are secured with epoxy potting material for stability, then reliability is improved, but ease of repair worsens due to difficult repositioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces adjustability into the fastener assembly system by allowing the fastener body to be repositioned along the fastener shaft after installation. This dynamic capability enables alignment corrections without removing the entire assembly, maintaining stability during operation while facilitating repair and adjustment
Solution Approach 2:
The fastener assembly is divided into separable components including the fastener body, fastener shaft, and adjustable elements. This segmentation allows the body to be repositioned independently of the shaft and potting material, enabling adjustment without complete removal while maintaining the structural integrity provided by the shaft and potting material
3Measurement precision
If alignment verification is performed after mounting the head-up display projector, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to potential reinstallation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables alignment verification to be performed before the projector is permanently mounted and potted. The alignment tool can be positioned on the reference datum and used to verify fastener assembly alignment prior to final installation, allowing corrections to be made while the assembly is still accessible and adjustable
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment tool provides immediate feedback on the alignment status of fastener assemblies through its measurement features. By comparing the position of measurement features against the reference datum, the system gives real-time information about alignment accuracy, enabling prompt adjustments before permanent mounting
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for installing alignment of fastener assemblies. The method comprises placing an alignment tool on a reference datum. The method also takes pitch, roll, and yaw readings from an instrument associated with the alignment tool. Further, the method positions the alignment tool relative to a number of holes. Still further, the method adjusts the alignment tool based on pitch, roll, and yaw readings. The method also installs a first fastener assembly relative to a first hole of the number of holes.