Clam-Shell Honeycomb Panel Insert With Snap-Fit Floating Nut
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing honeycomb sandwich panel inserts for commercial aircraft require assembly through the distal end of the housing and use of a separate end cap, which can be cumbersome and prone to misalignment.
Innovation Solution
A clam-shell like housing formed of two identical halves with engaging elements that snap together around the floating nut, eliminating the need for assembly through the distal end and a separate end cap.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If assembly is performed through the distal end of the housing with a separate end cap, then the fastener insert can be assembled, but the assembly process becomes cumbersome and prone to misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The housing is divided into two identical halves that are joined together to form the complete housing structure. This merging of the housing into modular halves allows the floating nut to be positioned and secured between the halves before final assembly, eliminating the need for a separate end cap and simplifying the overall assembly process while reducing misalignment issues
2Strength
If a separate end cap is used to close the distal end, then the housing can be sealed, but the structure becomes more complex and weaker in critical areas
Solution Approach 1:
The two identical housing halves are joined together to form a unified structure that eliminates the need for a separate end cap. This merging approach creates a stronger structure in critical areas by distributing loads across the joined halves while reducing the total number of parts and eliminating weak points associated with additional sealing components
Solution Approach 2:
The housing is segmented into two identical halves that can be manufactured separately and then joined together. This segmentation allows for optimized material distribution in critical areas while maintaining structural integrity, and the joining of halves creates a stronger overall structure compared to using a separate end cap
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
The solution provides a stronger and more efficient panel insert by eliminating the cap element and allowing maximum material in critical areas, while also simplifying assembly and reducing misalignment issues.
Implementation Method 1
a peg in one half is received in a hole in the other half by a snap fit
Data Source
AI summary
A honeycomb sandwich panel insert that includes a housing defined by two identical halves which when joined together form a distal flange having opposed potting holes, and a central internal bore. Each of the halves includes an integrally formed laterally extending member that when joined forms a tight closed distal end of said bore. A nut is disposed within the internal bore of the housing and configured to float therein.