Aircraft Insulation Attachment System Using Clips
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aircraft insulation systems compress insulation blankets, reducing thermal efficiency and leading to moisture buildup due to condensation, and are cumbersome to install.
Innovation Solution
An insulation attachment system featuring tabs on insulation blankets and molded plastic clips that attach to aircraft frame members, reducing compression and facilitating easier installation by using clips on the outboard side to secure the blankets without compressing them.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional components are used to hold insulation blanket against aircraft frame, then insulation blanket can be secured to frame, but insulation blanket is compressed which reduces thermal insulation efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary attachment component (clip or staple) that mediates between the insulation blanket and the aircraft frame. This intermediary element secures the blanket without directly compressing it, allowing the blanket to maintain its insulating properties while still being firmly attached to the frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is segmented into discrete components: the insulation blanket, the attachment component (clip/staple), and the aircraft frame. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently - the blanket provides insulation, the clip provides attachment without compression, and the frame provides structural support.
2Reliability
If conventional components are used to hold insulation blanket against aircraft frame, then insulation blanket can be secured to frame, but moisture buildup occurs due to condensation
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment component serves as an intermediary that creates a non-compressive interface between the insulation blanket and the frame. This prevents the compression-induced condensation that leads to moisture buildup, thereby managing moisture effectively while maintaining secure attachment.
3Ease of operation
If conventional insulation systems are used, then insulation can be installed, but installation process is tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment component is designed to be self-installing on the insulation blanket through simple attachment methods (such as adhesive backing or snap-fit mechanisms). This self-service design eliminates the need for complex installation procedures, making the overall installation process easier and faster.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment components are pre-positioned or pre-attached to the insulation blankets during manufacturing. This preliminary action simplifies the on-site installation process, as installers only need to attach the pre-prepared units to the aircraft frame rather than assembling multiple separate components during installation.
Data Source
AI summary
An insulation attachment system for an aircraft includes a first insulation blanket including a first tab at an aft end of the first insulation blanket and a second insulation blanket including a second tab at an aft end of the second insulation blanket. The system also includes a third insulation blanket and a first attachment component disposed on an outboard forward portion of the second insulation blanket and clasping a first frame member of the aircraft such that the first tab and the second insulation blanket are attached to the first frame member. The system also includes a second attachment component disposed on an outboard forward portion of the third insulation blanket and clasping a second frame member of the aircraft that is aft of the first frame member such that the second tab and the third insulation blanket are attached to the second frame member.