Aircraft Cabin Rail Fastening for Tolerance Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of aligning individual interior components in aircraft with varying manufacturing tolerances to achieve visual appeal and proper assembly is difficult due to tolerances in the primary structure, especially in serial production.
Innovation Solution
A fastening device with a base structure and profile legs, a rail device with a longitudinal recess, and a locking unit that allows for adjustable and universal fastening, compensating for tolerances along the longitudinal axis, enabling a continuous secondary structure interface with tolerance compensation and load distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional fastening methods are used to attach interior components to the aircraft frame, then the assembly process is simple, but manufacturing tolerances cause misalignment and poor visual appearance
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening device incorporates a rotational joint that allows the second elongated profile edge to rotate relative to the base structure, enabling dynamic adjustment to compensate for manufacturing tolerances and achieve proper alignment of interior components with the aircraft frame
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening device is divided into multiple functional segments: a base structure with first profile edge, a second profile edge connected via rotational joint, and a fastening element. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while collectively solving the alignment problem caused by tolerances
2Manufacturing precision
If adjustable fastening devices are used to compensate for tolerances, then alignment precision improves, but the device becomes more complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational joint provides the necessary adjustability for tolerance compensation while maintaining a relatively simple mechanical structure that can be manufactured using conventional processes, balancing alignment precision with manufacturing ease
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening device design with its rotational joint and multiple profile edges serves multiple functions: it provides adjustable alignment, maintains structural strength, and ensures proper load distribution, making it a universal solution for various interior components while avoiding the need for multiple specialized parts
3Manufacturing precision
If tolerance compensation mechanisms are added to the fastening system, then alignment and visual appeal improve, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rotational joint enables tolerance compensation through a simple rotational movement rather than requiring complex mechanical mechanisms, minimizing the additional weight needed to achieve proper alignment while maintaining visual appeal
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a fastening device (10) for compensating tolerances when fastening a component (101) to a support structure (2) of a means of transport, in particular when fastening a cabin fitting element to a frame of an aircraft (100). Further, the present invention provides a rail device for compensating tolerances when fastening a component (101) to a support structure (2) of a means of transport, in particular when fastening a cabin fitting element to a frame of an aircraft (100). The present invention further provides a fastening system (1) and an aircraft (100) comprising such a fastening device (10) and such a rail device (20). Further, the present invention provides an assembly method for compensating tolerances when fastening a component to a support structure of a means of transport as well as a manufacturing method for manufacturing a fastening device for compensating tolerances.