Aircraft Profile Mounting Through Existing Skin Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of mounting profile components on aircraft frame structural components in difficult-to-access areas is complicated by the use of heavy or bulky tools, making the installation process cumbersome for personnel.
Innovation Solution
A method and mounting system utilizing a robot arm with a tool holder and gripping device to guide a profile component through an existing aircraft opening, align it with the frame structural component, and secure it using fastening means, allowing for automated or semi-automated attachment without the need for additional openings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If heavy or bulky tools are used for mounting profile components, then the mounting operation can be performed, but the installation becomes cumbersome and difficult for personnel in difficult-to-access areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated robotic system. A robot arm equipped with a gripping device and mounting tool automatically performs the profile component attachment, eliminating the need for personnel to manually handle heavy tools in difficult-to-access areas while maintaining mounting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a robot arm as an intermediary between the operator and the mounting operation. The robot arm transports and positions heavy mounting tools to difficult-to-access areas, serving as a mediator that eliminates the need for personnel to directly handle cumbersome equipment in confined spaces
2Ease of operation
If additional openings are created in the aircraft outer skin for tool access, then tool access is improved, but the aircraft structure is compromised and additional openings must be provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing openings in the aircraft outer skin multi-functional by using them for both their original purposes and as access points for the robot arm to insert mounting tools into the aircraft interior, eliminating the need for additional openings
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes existing openings in the aircraft structure to serve the dual purpose of their original function and as access points for automated tool insertion, allowing the system to use available resources rather than requiring additional modifications
Data Source
AI summary
A method and mounting system for mounting a profile component on an internal frame structural component of an aircraft. The method comprises the steps: picking-up the profile component by a gripping device arranged on a tool holder; guiding the tool holder through an opening in an outer skin of the aircraft into the interior of the aircraft by a robot arm; aligning, arranging and fixing the profile component to the frame structural component in an installed position by a first fastening arrangement; releasing the gripping device; and fastening the profile component to the frame structural component by at least one second fastening arrangement. The first and second fastening arrangements are attached by a fastener device arranged on the tool holder.