Two-Part Applicator Pen for Aeronautical Post-Treatment Coating
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for applying post-treatment to non-hexavalent chromium chemical conversion coatings (CCC) on aluminum and aluminum alloy components in aeronautics and aerospace face challenges such as spatial constraints, operator hazards, and the need for a stable shelf life, particularly with the Socosurf PACS solution which has a short shelf life when mixed with hydrogen peroxide.
Innovation Solution
A handheld two-part applicator pen that separately stores Socosurf PACS solution and hydrogen peroxide, incorporating a pH indicator for monitoring, allowing controlled mixing at the point of use, minimizing solution dripping and operator exposure, and providing a stable shelf life by ensuring proper chemical composition and pH range.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If Socosurf PACS solution is mixed with hydrogen peroxide for post-treatment application, then the post-treatment can be applied to reinforce the CCC, but the mixture does not have a stable shelf life and must be used within one to two days
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator pen divides the chemical system into separate compartments: a first vessel containing Socosurf PACS solution and a second vessel containing hydrogen peroxide. This segmentation prevents premature mixing, allowing each component to maintain stability in its respective container while enabling controlled mixing only when needed for application.
2Ease of operation
If the mixture is prepared in advance, then application process is simplified, but the mixture loses stability and effectiveness
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator pen is prepared in advance with both chemical components loaded into separate vessels, but the mixing action is delayed until the moment of use. The structure includes pre-configured mixing mechanisms (such as a porous plug or mixing chamber) that automatically combine the chemicals when the trigger is pulled, eliminating the need for separate mixing steps while maintaining chemical stability.
3Quantity of substance
If traditional immersion method is used for applying the mixture, then coverage is achieved, but operator exposure and environmental hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator pen introduces an intermediary delivery mechanism between the chemical mixture and the target surface. The mixing chamber and applicator tip system controls the release and application of the mixture, allowing precise targeting of the CCC area while preventing uncontrolled dripping and minimizing operator contact with the chemicals.
4Reliability
If separate storage of chemicals is maintained, then shelf life is extended, but mixing precision and chemical composition control become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The applicator pen design incorporates fixed volume vessels with predetermined ratios of chemical capacity, and the mixing mechanism is designed to deliver consistent proportional mixing. By controlling the physical parameters of the delivery system (vessel volumes, flow rates, mixing chamber geometry), the patent achieves precise chemical composition control without requiring manual measurement or mixing adjustments.
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
The solution enables efficient, safe, and effective on-wing post-treatment of CCCs by ensuring the correct mixing ratio and pH of the Socosurf PACS and hydrogen peroxide mixture, reducing environmental and operator hazards while maintaining a stable shelf life for the applicator.
Implementation Method 1
a pH indicator contained in one of the first or second vessels
Data Source
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AI summary
A handheld applicator for delivery of post-treatment coating following application of a conversion coating includes a first vessel (18) extending longitudinally and containing Socosurf PACS solution, a second vessel (20) extending longitudinally and containing hydrogen peroxide, a pH indicator contained in one of the first or second vessels, a mixing region configured to combine the Socosurf PACS solution, hydrogen peroxide, and pH indicator.