Chain Holding Tool With Sprocket-Mounted Finger Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge during aircraft assembly is ensuring that the chain portion on the sprocket is accurately positioned and held in place to maintain optimal settings of the control system, particularly when the chain and sprocket are assembled separately.
Innovation Solution
A tool comprising a shoe fixed to the sprocket and a finger inserted into a chain link, with a bar supporting multiple links, ensures precise positioning and secure holding of the chain on the sprocket, using a split cylinder with clamping means and a non-slip ring for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the chain portion and sprocket are assembled separately during aircraft assembly, then the assembly process becomes more flexible and efficient, but the chain portion may move on the sprocket causing misalignment and loss of optimal control system settings
Solution Approach 1:
The tool allows preliminary positioning of the chain on the sprocket before final assembly. The finger inserted into a link and the bar supporting multiple links enable the chain to be held in the correct position in advance, preventing movement during subsequent assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool acts as an intermediary device between the chain and sprocket during assembly. It provides a mechanical means to maintain precise positioning without requiring permanent fixation, enabling flexible assembly while preserving alignment accuracy.
2Manufacturing precision
If the chain position is fixed rigidly to prevent movement, then positioning accuracy is maintained, but the ability to adjust and reposition during assembly and maintenance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tool provides a dynamic positioning solution rather than rigid fixation. The finger inserted into a link and the bar supporting multiple links create a movable yet stable connection that maintains precision during assembly while allowing adjustment and repositioning when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool enables change in the state of the chain-sprocket connection from movable to fixed temporarily during assembly, then back to movable for maintenance. The mechanical engagement can be applied or removed as needed, changing the positioning parameter dynamically.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for adjusting and holding a chain with links engaging with a sprocket, the tool has a shoe intended to be mounted in a fixed manner with respect to the sprocket, and a finger secured to the shoe and intended to be inserted into a link. Also, an assembly with such a tool.