Avionic Sliding Rack Threaded Rail Mounting System

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Solution Overview

Problem

The pre-set bolt holes on aircraft consoles limit the precise placement and mounting flexibility of avionics equipment, which can hinder optimal installation and performance.

Innovation Solution

A mounting rail system with two threaded faces and a mounting bracket secured via fasteners, allowing for an interference fit and adjustable placement, along with spacers for aesthetic and grounding improvements, provides maximum flexibility and secure attachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If pre-set bolt holes are used on the console, then the mounting process is simplified, but the placement flexibility and precision of avionics equipment is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting process simplicityVSAvoidplacement flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting rail serves multiple functions: it provides a continuous threaded engagement surface for secure mounting, acts as a positioning reference for precise placement, and enables adjustable positioning along its length. This universal component replaces both the pre-set bolt holes and separate positioning fixtures, achieving both ease of operation and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If pre-set bolt holes are used on the console, then the structure is simplified, but the mounting precision is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidmounting precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting rail acts as an intermediary between the console and the avionics equipment. It features a slot that receives a positioning pin from the equipment, establishing precise horizontal alignment, while its threaded faces provide secure vertical attachment. This intermediary component achieves high mounting precision without significantly increasing overall structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a mounting rail system with threaded faces is used, then the adaptability and precision are improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemounting flexibilityVSAvoidmounting system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The mounting rail combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: the slot provides horizontal positioning, the threaded faces provide vertical attachment, and the overall structure serves as both a mounting surface and a positioning reference. This merging of functions achieves high adaptability and precision while minimizing the number of separate components, thus reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 system enables precise and flexible mounting of avionics equipment, enhancing installation ease and ensuring reliable grounding for sensitive components, while reducing part count and simplifying installation processes.

Implementation Method 1

the two threaded faces are configured to engage the fastener with an interference fit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInterference fit: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS11708173B2Avionic sliding rack
Publication Date: 2023.07.25 TEXTRON INNOVATIONS INC
  • US11708173B2 patent drawing
  • US11708173B2 patent drawing
  • US11708173B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A mounting rail system for a console of an aircraft includes a pair of mounting rails. The first mounting rail is secured to the console and includes a first track with a pair of threaded faces that are configured to receive a first fastener. The second mounting rail is secured to the console opposite the first mounting rail and includes a second track with a pair of threaded faces that are configured to receive a second fastener. The mounting rail system includes a first mounting bracket configured to be secured to the first mounting rail via the first fastener and a second mounting bracket configured to be secured to the second mounting rail via the second fastener.