Aircraft Cowl Hold Open Rod With Self-Deploying Latch
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing door opening system (DOS) and Hold Open Rod (HOR) systems for aircraft engine nacelles require multiple steps for opening and closing, which can lead to human error if not executed properly, potentially impairing the nacelle.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a rod, slider, track, latch, and locking mechanism, where the latch rotates in opposite directions based on the slider's translation along the track, with a solenoid for automatic locking and unlocking, allowing the cowl to be selectively held open and closed with reduced manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a manual multi-step procedure is used to open and close the cowl, then the technician can control the process, but human error may occur leading to nacelle impairment
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the cowl opening/closing process is automatically controlled by the interaction between the slider, track, and locking mechanism. The slider automatically engages and disengages the locking mechanism at appropriate positions during opening and closing, eliminating the need for manual intervention and preventing human error while maintaining operational reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an automated mechanical system. The multi-step manual procedure is substituted by an automated system where the slider's movement along the track automatically triggers locking and unlocking actions, transforming a complex manual process into a simplified automated mechanical sequence
2Ease of operation
If the cowl is held open manually during maintenance, then access is provided, but the technician must remember to close and secure it properly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically managing the cowl's locked and unlocked states. During maintenance, the cowl remains automatically held open without technician intervention. Upon closing, the slider automatically re-engages the locking mechanism, ensuring proper securing without relying on technician memory or attention
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates implicit feedback through the mechanical interaction between the slider and locking mechanism. The slider's position along the track provides feedback about the cowl's state, automatically triggering locking when the cowl is fully opened and unlocking when closing, ensuring reliable operation without manual oversight
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to automatically hold the cowl open, then human error is eliminated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking mechanism with the existing slider and track components of the DOS system. The locking mechanism is integrated into the slider's movement path along the track, combining multiple functions (positioning, locking, unlocking) into a unified system that reduces overall complexity compared to separate manual locking and positioning systems
Solution Approach 2:
The slider serves multiple functions: it positions the cowl during opening, engages the locking mechanism to hold the cowl open, and disengages the locking mechanism during closing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, maintaining simplicity while achieving automatic reliable operation
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
This system eliminates the risk of human error by providing a self-deploying locking mechanism that automatically locks the cowl in the fully opened position, ensuring it remains open during maintenance and automatically closes when required, thus enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
In some embodiments, the locking mechanism comprises a solenoid
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a system configured to selectively hold open an aircraft engine cowl, comprising: a rod, a slider coupled to the rod, a track coupled to the slider, a latch coupled to the track. Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a nacelle system of an aircraft, comprising: an engine case, a bracket attached to the engine case or a cowl, a rod coupled to the bracket via a bearing, a clevis coupled to the rod, a slider coupled to the clevis, a track coupled to the slider and to the engine case or the cowl, and a latch coupled to the track that is configured to control a translation of the slider along the track based on a state of the cowl.