Aircraft Structure Temperature Control for Accurate CAMS Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large scale structures face temperature-related movement and distortion during manufacturing due to inconsistent temperature exposure, affecting precision measurements and alignment in aircraft manufacturing, as current methods struggle to maintain stable temperatures across extensive structures.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising first and second temperature sensors, a plurality of temperature regulation devices, and a processor in wireless communication, which stabilizes the temperature of large scale structures by maintaining a variance of 2.2 degrees Celsius between sensors, ensuring accurate operation of Computer Aided Measuring Systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If temperature controlled rooms are used for manufacturing, then temperature stability is improved, but device complexity and ease of manufacture deteriorate due to the unsuitability for large scale structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the large scale structure into multiple temperature zones with separate sensors and regulation devices. Each zone is independently monitored and controlled, allowing the entire structure to be managed through segmented control rather than requiring a single comprehensive temperature controlled environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces temperature sensors and regulation devices as intermediary elements between the environment and the structure. These intermediaries actively monitor and adjust temperature conditions, replacing the need for passive temperature controlled rooms while maintaining temperature stability.
2Manufacturing precision
If temperature regulation devices are used to stabilize structure temperature, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple sensors and regulation devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where temperature sensors continuously monitor structure temperature and relay data to processors, which then adjust regulation devices accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism maintains manufacturing precision through automatic adjustment rather than complex manual control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The temperature regulation system operates autonomously by self-monitoring through sensors and self-adjusting through regulation devices based on real-time temperature data. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex external control infrastructure while maintaining manufacturing precision.
3Reliability
If multiple temperature sensors and regulation devices are deployed, then temperature control effectiveness is improved, but loss of time increases due to system setup and coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes continuous temperature monitoring and regulation throughout the manufacturing process. Sensors continuously track temperature variations while regulation devices continuously adjust conditions, eliminating interruptions and time losses associated with periodic manual interventions or system reconfigurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary temperature stabilization before manufacturing operations begin and maintains control throughout the process. This preliminary and continuous action prevents temperature-related delays during critical manufacturing phases, reducing overall time loss.
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
This solution maintains temperature stability, preventing distortion and ensuring accurate CAMS data by controlling temperature regulation devices to maintain a consistent temperature range, thereby reducing manufacturing delays and improving precision.
Implementation Method 1
A first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor, a plurality of temperature regulation devices, and a processor
Implementation Method 2
A determination may be made based on the recorded temperature values to operate the plurality of temperature regulation devices to control the temperature of targeted areas of the structure or surface
Implementation Method 3
The temperature regulation devices can be monitored and controlled such that the structure or surface is stabilized and distortion is prevented during the CAMS process
Data Source
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AI summary
Examples disclosed herein relate to methods and apparatus for controlling the temperature of large scale structures during manufacturing operations. A structure or surface when measured by Computer Aided Measuring Systems (CAMS) preferably remains a predetermined constant temperature with minimum variance. The manufacturing system includes a first temperature sensor, a second temperature sensor, a plurality of temperature regulation devices, and a processor, all in wireless communication. During performance of a CAMS process on a large scale structure or surface, a recorded temperature value of the structure or surface is communicated. A determination is made based on the recorded temperature value to operate the plurality of temperature regulation devices to control the temperature of targeted areas of the structure or surface. The temperature regulation devices are monitored and controlled such that the structure or surface is stabilized and distortion is prevented during the CAMS process.