Cargo Load Platform Assembly for Rapid Auxiliary Fuel Tank Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional auxiliary fuel tank systems installed in aircraft fuselages are difficult to rapidly install or remove due to their size and weight, requiring complex procedures and compromising cargo space, which reduces aircraft mission availability.
Innovation Solution
A cargo load platform assembly with anti-rattle devices, including upper and lower connectors with threaded shafts and turnbuckles, and quick-disconnect pins, allows for secure and rapid positioning of auxiliary fuel tanks on a cargo deck, enabling easy installation and removal while maintaining stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional auxiliary fuel tank systems are installed in the cargo compartment, then additional fuel capacity is achieved, but the tanks are difficult to install or remove rapidly due to their size and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the auxiliary fuel tank into modular components that can be easily assembled and disassembled. The tank is segmented into sections that can be handled separately, reducing the operational difficulty of installation and removal while maintaining the required fuel capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic positioning mechanisms that allow the fuel tank to be easily moved into and out of the cargo compartment. The system transitions from a static, fixed installation to a dynamic, movable configuration that facilitates rapid deployment and removal.
2Reliability
If dedicated rails and fixations are installed on the aircraft fuselage to secure auxiliary fuel tanks, then the tanks can be securely fixed, but available cargo space is compromised and installation procedures become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal fixation system that serves multiple functions: it secures the auxiliary fuel tank during flight, allows for rapid deployment, and does not permanently occupy cargo space. The same mechanism can be used for different tank configurations, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary coupling mechanism is introduced between the fuel tank and the aircraft structure. This mediator component simplifies the connection process, allowing the tank to be securely attached without complex direct fixations to the fuselage, thereby maintaining cargo space availability.
3Productivity
If auxiliary fuel tanks are made removable for reconfiguration, then mission availability can be improved, but delicate maneuvering is required to avoid damage to tanks and aircraft
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates dynamic movement capabilities that allow the fuel tank to be easily maneuvered into position. The design includes movable guides and positioning mechanisms that simplify the insertion and removal processes, reducing the risk of damage during reconfiguration operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates cushioning elements and protective features in advance to prevent damage during maneuvering. These pre-installed protective mechanisms absorb shocks and prevent contact damage, allowing for safer and easier reconfiguration operations.
4Ease of operation
If portable fuel tank units with rollers are used, then placement within the aircraft fuselage is easier, but the system becomes unstable and may lead to undesired vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a purely rolling mechanism to a dynamic system that can transition between movable and fixed states. The rollers are incorporated as temporary positioning aids that are locked in place once the tank is positioned, providing ease of placement while ensuring flight stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates preliminary anti-vibration measures by designing the roller mechanism to transition into a locked, stable configuration. The anti-rattle devices are pre-positioned to counteract any potential vibrations once the tank is in place, preventing instability before it can occur during flight.
Data Source
AI summary
Cargo load platform assemblies are especially adapted to provide support for a variety of cargo, such as auxiliary aircraft fuel tanks. According to certain embodiments herein, a load platform is provided which is adapted to being positioned onto a cargo deck of a cargo aircraft. At least one anti-rattle device is operatively associated with the load platform for positionally fixing the load platform to a tie-down ring of the cargo deck of a cargo aircraft. The cargo load platform may support a rigid fuel tank thereon so that auxiliary fuel tankage systems can be provided as may be needed.