Dual Hopper Cover Latch Sequencing for Secure Aerial Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hopper cover systems in aerial application aircrafts are inefficient and prone to complications during replenishing, as they rely on a single latch pin and are not fully secure, leading to material waste and inefficiencies in loading and sealing.
Innovation Solution
A dual latch mechanism with a latch sequencing mechanism and a spring-coupled latch rod, coupled to an electric actuator, allows for automated and secure closure of the hopper cover, ensuring materials are retained even under varying conditions, using a first and second latch pin to engage opposite latch boxes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single latch pin and latch box system is used to secure the hopper cover, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of securing application materials deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The single latch system is segmented into multiple independent latch pins (first latch pin and second latch pin) positioned at different locations on the hopper cover. Each latch pin engages with its corresponding latch box independently, distributing the securing function across multiple points to improve overall reliability while maintaining manageable complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The latch system transitions from a single-point engagement to a distributed multi-point engagement system. By positioning latch pins at different locations (front and rear of the hopper cover), the system adds spatial dimensionality to the securing mechanism, enhancing reliability through redundant engagement points
2Ease of operation
If a single latch pin system is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the loss of application materials increases due to inadequate sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is segmented into multiple latch engagement points along the hopper cover perimeter. This ensures that the cover is securely sealed at multiple locations, preventing material loss while maintaining operational simplicity through automated actuation of the distributed latch system
Solution Approach 2:
The latch system incorporates a spring mechanism that automatically engages the latch pins with their corresponding latch boxes when the hopper cover is closed. This self-servicing mechanism ensures proper sealing without requiring manual intervention, preventing material loss while maintaining ease of operation
3Productivity
If automated electric actuation is used for the latch mechanism, then the productivity is improved, but the use of energy increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric actuator operates in periodic, intermittent cycles rather than continuous operation. It activates only during the brief moments when the hopper cover needs to be opened or closed, allowing the spring mechanism to handle the sustained latching function. This periodic operation significantly reduces energy consumption while maintaining high productivity during critical operations
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism provides self-servicing latching function after initial actuation, eliminating the need for continuous electric power. The spring automatically engages and maintains the latch position, allowing the electric actuator to be deactivated, thus reducing energy consumption while maintaining operational productivity
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 dual latch mechanism facilitates efficient and secure sealing of the hopper cover, preventing material waste and improving operational efficiency by maintaining a seal under various conditions, even without continuous electric or hydraulic actuation.
Implementation Method 1
A spring is coupled to the latch sequencing mechanism and the latch rod, and the spring exerts linear mechanical force based on the latch rod being in the latched or unlatched position
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment, a system for an aerial application aircraft includes a hopper cover, an electric actuator coupled to the hopper cover, a latch sequencing mechanism, a spring, and a dual latch mechanism. The latch sequencing mechanism includes a latch rod coupled to the electric actuator that moves the latch rod between a latched position and an unlatched position. The spring is coupled to the latch sequencing mechanism and the latch rod, and the spring exerts linear mechanical force based on the latch rod being in the latched or unlatched position. The dual latch mechanism is coupled to the latch rod and includes a first latch pin that engages a first latch box and a second latch pin that engages a second latch box opposite the first latch box.