Aircraft Intercostal Framework for Load Dissipation and Weight Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft intercostals with continuous thrust panels are heavy due to limited openings, requiring small system lines and redirection, which increases weight and complexity.
Innovation Solution
The use of a framework structure with reduced thrust panels and larger openings allows for lighter weight and increased space for larger system lines, achieving comparable rigidity to traditional designs while minimizing material usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If continuous thrust panels are used in intercostal structure, then structural rigidity is improved, but weight increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous thrust panel is segmented into a framework structure consisting of discrete longitudinal and transverse beams arranged in a grid pattern. This segmentation maintains structural rigidity through the beam network while creating open spaces that reduce material usage and overall weight of the intercostal component.
2Force
If multiple reinforcement ribs are provided in intercostal, then load transmission capability is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement ribs are reconfigured as a segmented framework of longitudinal and transverse beams rather than continuous solid panels. This framework provides load transmission paths through the beam structure while reducing material consumption and weight compared to traditional multiple reinforcement ribs approach.
3Strength
If openings are dimensioned small in intercostal, then structural integrity is maintained, but system lines require redirection increasing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The framework structure creates three-dimensional open spaces between longitudinal and transverse beams, allowing system lines to pass through the intercostal structure in multiple directions and positions. This dimensional freedom enables direct routing of system lines without redirection, reducing installation complexity while maintaining structural integrity through the beam framework.
4Weight of moving object
If framework structure is used instead of continuous thrust panel, then weight is reduced, but material distribution becomes less uniform
Solution Approach 1:
The framework structure applies material locally at strategic positions where longitudinal and transverse beams intersect or where loading occurs, rather than distributing material uniformly across the entire intercostal area. This localized material placement optimizes structural efficiency by concentrating material where needed for load transmission while minimizing weight in non-critical regions.
Data Source
AI summary
An intercostal for an aircraft for dissipating a load from a first frame onto a second frame and/or a skin of the aircraft, the intercostal having a framework.