Avionics Power Panel Controller Assembly with Floating Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
The increasing complexity and weight of electrical systems in aircraft due to complex wiring looms, which complicate maintenance and pose risks of damage during component removal or replacement in power management panels.
Innovation Solution
A power panel controller assembly with floating power panel control modules that can move in multiple axes, allowing for easier connection and disconnection, and utilizing high-density connectors to reduce the need for complex wiring, incorporating sprung card guides and brackets for secure yet flexible mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex wiring looms are used to accommodate increasing power distribution demands, then power distribution capability is improved, but system weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power management system is divided into modular control modules that can be independently installed and configured. Each module contains integrated circuitry and connectors that eliminate the need for extensive wiring looms, as modules communicate through standardized interfaces within the chassis.
Solution Approach 2:
The chassis is designed with universal mounting structures and standardized connectors that can accommodate different power management modules. The sprung card guides and bracket assembly provide a universal retention mechanism that works with various module configurations, reducing the need for custom wiring solutions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex wiring looms are used to accommodate increasing power distribution demands, then power distribution capability is improved, but maintenance difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the power management system into discrete, modular control modules, maintenance personnel can easily remove and replace individual modules without disturbing the entire wiring system. The sprung card guides enable tool-free or simple tool-based removal of modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly with protrusions and fasteners extracts the retention function from complex wiring structures, providing a dedicated mechanical retention system that simplifies module removal and installation while maintaining secure connections.
3Stability of the object's composition
If fixed mounting structures are used for control modules, then structural stability is improved, but connection flexibility during installation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The sprung card guides provide a dynamic retention mechanism that is flexible during insertion and removal operations, then provides stable retention once the module is installed. The spring-loaded cards can accommodate minor positioning variations while maintaining secure contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention system changes its mechanical parameters from a compliant state during installation to a rigid state during operation. The sprung cards deflect to accommodate module insertion, then spring back to provide firm retention, effectively changing the stiffness parameter based on operational phase.
Data Source
AI summary
An avionics power management panel and power panel controller assembly where the panel includes a cabinet including a set of walls at least partially defining an interior with a printed circuit board. The power panel controller assembly can be provided in the interior and can include a chassis housing one or more power panel control modules adapted to couple to the printed circuit board via one or more complementary PCB connectors.