Bulkhead Connector Assembly Single-Hand Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fuel handling systems in aircraft require cumbersome multi-hand operation to install and disconnect adjustable connectors in narrow spaces, posing challenges in fluid and electrical charge management during flight conditions.
Innovation Solution
A bulkhead connector assembly with a housing, collar, and resilient annular member that allows single-hand operation, featuring a snap-fit mechanism and redundant locking clip to securely connect and disconnect fluid handling components while maintaining electrical conductivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional adjustable connectors are used in narrow aircraft spaces, then fluid handling and electrical bonding functions are achieved, but the installation and disconnection operations become cumbersome and require multiple hands
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into distinct modular components: a body portion with bonding features, a collar with gripping features, and a resilient retainer with feet. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while simplifying the overall installation process, as components can be assembled in a straightforward sequence without complex manipulation
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient retainer acts as an intermediary component that mediates between the collar and the body portion. It provides the locking function through its feet engaging with slots in the body, while also facilitating easy installation by allowing the collar to be simply inserted and retained, eliminating the need for complex fastening operations
2Reliability
If adjustable connectors are designed for secure engagement, then reliable fluid handling and electrical bonding are achieved, but the operation becomes more complex and difficult to perform with one hand
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient retainer provides self-service locking functionality where its feet automatically engage with the slots in the body portion when the collar is inserted. The resilient nature of the retainer allows it to self-adjust and secure the connection without requiring additional fastening steps or complex manipulation, achieving both reliability and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical fastening systems with a simpler resilient retention system. Instead of requiring threads, bolts, or multiple fastening steps, the resilient retainer uses elastic deformation and geometric interlocking (feet in slots) to achieve secure engagement, significantly simplifying the operation while maintaining reliability
3Manufacturing precision
If narrow spaces within aircraft structures are accessed for connector installation, then proper installation is achieved, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The segmented design with distinct body, collar, and retainer components allows for straightforward sequential assembly that can be performed with one hand in confined spaces. Each component has clearly defined engagement features that guide proper alignment and positioning, ensuring installation precision without requiring complex manipulation or additional time
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient retainer is pre-formed with feet that are designed to engage with slots in the body portion. This preliminary configuration allows the retainer to automatically perform the locking action as the collar is inserted, eliminating the need for separate fastening steps and significantly reducing installation time while ensuring proper engagement
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
Enables efficient single-hand operation of bulkhead connectors in narrow aircraft spaces, ensuring secure fluid handling and safe electrical charge management, reducing installation complexity and preventing sparking hazards.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient annular member that is attached to the housing. The resilient annular member and the feet of the retainer may hold the collar in the housing
Implementation Method 2
The bonding ring may extend between the housing and the collar to provide an electrically conductive path therebetween
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary bulkhead connector assembly may include a housing that has an inner diameter surface, a first opening and a second opening. The assembly may further have a retainer attached to the housing and one or more feet extending radially inward from the inner diameter surface of the housing. The assembly can also include a collar that has a portion received within the first opening or the second opening. The collar may have an outer surface that cooperates with the feet of the retainer to hold a conduit within the housing.