Aircraft Hatch Ejection Device Using Reversible Articulated Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft hatch ejection systems are either unsafe due to the risk of failure or untimely detonation when using explosive means, or require manual force to eject, posing a risk of pulling personnel during the hatch's fall.
Innovation Solution
An ejection device utilizing articulated arms with a reversible connection system, where the hatch is attached to the aircraft via a holding device that disconnects beyond a critical swing angle, allowing the hatch to fall mechanically and controlledly when the normal opening amplitude is exceeded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If explosive means are used to propel the hatch outward, then the ejection force is sufficient, but the safety risk increases due to failure or untimely detonation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the explosive propulsion system with a purely mechanical ejection mechanism. The articulated arm system uses gravitational force and mechanical leverage to propel the hatch outward, eliminating the need for explosives while maintaining sufficient ejection force and improving safety through reliable mechanical operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The ejection mechanism utilizes the hatch's own weight and the gravitational field to provide the propelling force. Once the holding device releases the articulated arm, gravity naturally accelerates the hatch outward without requiring additional energy input or explosive charges, making the system self-service and inherently safer.
2Ease of operation
If manual force is used to force the hatch outward after detaching fastening elements, then the ejection can be controlled, but personnel may be pulled along during the hatch's fall
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated arm serves as an intermediary mechanical element between the hatch and the holding device. It provides a controlled mechanical linkage that allows the hatch to be propelled outward in a predictable arc, preventing direct contact between personnel and the falling hatch while maintaining operational control.
Solution Approach 2:
The ejection mechanism is segmented into distinct functional components: the holding device for secure attachment, the articulated arm for controlled movement, and the hatch itself. This segmentation allows the system to transition smoothly from a secured state to an ejection state without requiring personnel to be in proximity to the hatch during the critical ejection moment.
3Strength
If the holding device maintains strong connection during normal operation, then the hatch security is improved, but the ejection mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static strong connection to a dynamic reversible connection. The holding device incorporates movable elements that maintain strong engagement during normal operation but can be easily disengaged when ejection is required. The articulated arm's geometry naturally provides mechanical advantage for both secure holding and controlled release.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated arm serves multiple functions: it acts as a structural support during normal operation, a propulsion mechanism during ejection, and a safety linkage throughout. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each phase of operation, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining strong connection when needed.
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
Enables a safe and controlled ejection of the aircraft hatch by using the normal opening mechanism as the ejection device, ensuring the hatch separates from the aircraft structure without manual force or explosive risks, thus reducing the risk of injury or equipment failure.
Implementation Method 1
The second part of the articulated arm is detached then from the first part and is no longer connected to the aircraft structure. Due to gravity, the second part of the articulated arm, and therefore also the hatch, falls to the ground.
Data Source
AI summary
An ejection device for an aircraft hatch having at least one articulation hinge. The articulation hinge is provided with a lower element designed to be mounted in rotation on structure of the aircraft, and an upper element designed to be joined to the hatch panel. The lower element and the upper element are connected to one another in a reversible manner. The ejection device has guide means in which the upper element of the articulation hinge is engaged, to hold the upper element in the axis of rotation (A) of the lower element during the activation of the hatch. The upper element of the articulation hinge can be separated from the guide means beyond a critical swing angle, so that the upper element is separated from the lower element of the articulation hinge. The invention also concerns an ejectable hatch for an aircraft.