Aircraft Cockpit Door Deceleration via Deformation Energy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft deceleration devices face challenges in effectively managing the kinetic energy of movable components during decompression events, particularly in preventing structural failure and injury by controlling the deceleration of doors and flaps accelerated by pressure differences.
Innovation Solution
A deceleration device comprising a deformation component with a deformable region and a guide device, where the deformation tool engages the deformable region to convert kinetic energy into deformation energy, utilizing a non-reversible deformation principle to control the deceleration of movable components, and featuring a compact design with an eccentric deformation tool and circular path for efficient energy absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a deceleration device uses reversible deformation (e.g., spring) to absorb kinetic energy, then the device can be reused after decompression, but the deceleration control is less effective and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable deformation component that undergoes non-reversible deformation to absorb kinetic energy during decompression. This component is designed to be replaced after use rather than reused, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining effective deceleration control. The deformation component includes a deformable body with a deformable region that permanently deforms under decompression forces, converting kinetic energy into deformation energy in a controlled manner.
2Speed
If the deceleration device is designed for quick opening and release, then the door can open rapidly in normal operation, but the deceleration effect during decompression is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic deceleration device that adapts its characteristics based on operating conditions. The deformation component is designed to remain inactive during normal quick opening operations, allowing rapid door movement. However, during decompression events, the component activates and undergoes controlled deformation to provide effective deceleration. This dynamic behavior is achieved through the specific design of the deformable body and its engagement mechanism with the door assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the deformation component to achieve different operational modes. The deformable body is designed with specific material properties and geometric characteristics that allow it to remain flexible during normal operation but provide significant resistance during decompression. The engagement force and deformation characteristics are adjusted based on the magnitude of applied forces, enabling quick opening under normal conditions while providing strong deceleration during decompression events.
3Reliability
If the deformation component is designed for non-reversible deformation, then kinetic energy is effectively converted to deformation energy, but the device cannot be reused and must be replaced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the deceleration device into a replaceable deformation component and a reusable housing/assembly structure. The deformation component is designed as a separate, modular element that can be easily removed and replaced after decompression events. This segmentation allows the effective energy absorption mechanism to be disposable while the overall device structure can be retained and reused, reducing maintenance costs and improving ease of repair.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a discarding and recovering strategy where the deformation component is discarded after use (as it undergoes permanent deformation) while the housing, mounting structures, and other components are recovered and reused. This approach maximizes the value of the deceleration device by allowing repeated use of the non-consumable parts while replacing only the deformation component that serves its purpose during decompression events.
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 controlled deceleration of movable components, reducing kinetic energy and preventing damage by converting it into deformation energy, ensuring safe operation and minimizing the need for repeated use of the deceleration device post-decompression.
Implementation Method 1
the deformable region of the deformation body can be deformed by the deformation tool... the kinetic energy of the movable component by deformation of a deformable region of a deformation body is converted to deformation energy
Implementation Method 2
the deformation tool and the deformation body can be made to engage each other in such a manner by the guide device that in the case of movement of the deformation body and of the deformation tool relative to each other
Data Source
AI summary
A deceleration device for a movable component in an aircraft, the device having a deformation component, wherein the deformation component includes a deformation tool, a deformation body with a deformable region, and a guide device. The deformation tool and the deformation body can be made to engage each other in such a manner by means of the guide device that in the case of movement of the deformation body and of the deformation tool relative to each other the deformable region of the deformation body can be deformed by the deformation tool.