Composite Aircraft Cable Retention Trunking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft made of composite materials face challenges in maintaining electrical conductivity and preventing short-circuits due to the low electrical conductivity of carbon fiber composites, which can lead to safety issues with cables contacting the structure, especially along curved trajectories.
Innovation Solution
A cable retention device in the form of trunking with a curved longitudinal axis matching the aircraft's fuselage curvature, featuring a U-shaped design with elastic stoppers and non-return devices to secure cables and prevent contact with the composite structure, while providing electrical continuity and protection against short-circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If metal structure is used for aircraft, then electrical conductivity functions are achieved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces separate cable retention devices (trunking) to perform the electrical continuity function that was previously provided by the continuous metal structure. This segments the electrical conductivity function from the structural function, allowing the use of lighter composite materials for the airframe while maintaining electrical safety through dedicated cable management components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces cable retention devices as intermediary components between the cables and the composite structure. These devices provide the necessary electrical isolation and protection, mediating between the conductive cables and the non-conductive composite airframe to prevent harmful electrical contact while maintaining structural integrity.
2Weight of moving object
If composite materials are used for aircraft structure, then weight is reduced, but electrical conductivity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electrical safety function from the structural function by introducing dedicated cable retention devices. These devices are strategically placed at intervals along the composite structure to provide localized electrical protection, allowing the overall structure to use lightweight composite materials while maintaining necessary electrical conductivity functions through the distributed retention system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the material parameter of the aircraft structure from conductive metal to non-conductive composite, then compensates for the loss of electrical conductivity by introducing cable retention devices with specific electrical properties. This parameter change enables weight reduction while the retention devices restore the necessary electrical safety functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If cables are installed along curved trajectories, then cable routing flexibility is improved, but risk of cable contact with structure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary protective action by installing cable retention devices along the curved trajectories before cable installation. These pre-positioned devices create designated safe zones that guide cable placement and prevent contact with the composite structure, addressing the short-circuit risk before it can occur during operation or maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable retention devices serve as intermediary protective elements between the cables following curved paths and the composite structure. They provide continuous electrical isolation along the curved trajectory, allowing cables to route flexibly while preventing harmful contact through the intermediate protective barrier.
4Shape
If trunking with small radius of curvature is used, then cable bending is achieved, but connector bulk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies curvature to the trunking design to match the curved trajectories of cables along the aircraft fuselage. By forming the trunking with appropriate radius of curvature, the design accommodates cable bending requirements while maintaining a compact profile that avoids excessive bulk, optimizing both shape adaptation and space utilization.
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 effectively protects the composite aircraft structure from cable-related short-circuits and fires by maintaining cable insulation and ensuring electrical continuity, reducing the risk of toxic fume emission and ensuring safe operation.
Implementation Method 1
featuring a U-shaped design with elastic stoppers
Data Source
AI summary
A retention device, in the form of a trunking with a substantially U-shaped section, for retaining at least one cable running along the structure of an aircraft, fastened to said structure by a fastening device and providing an electrical continuity over the whole of its length is disclosed. The device is electrically connected to a current-return circuit from the items of equipment of the aircraft. The trunking includes at least one curve on its longitudinal axis corresponding substantially to that of a frame of a fuselage. It is intended to be mounted on a frame of an aircraft made of carbon fibers and to protect the skin of the aircraft against a possible contact with a damaged cable.