Evacuation Slide Cable Connection Box with Interlocking Blocker
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for installing evacuation slide actuation cables in aircraft do not provide a reliable method to verify proper connection from within the aircraft, leading to potential issues with inflation initiation during emergency evacuations.
Innovation Solution
A connection box assembly with a sliding lid and electrical connector blocker ensures the evacuation slide actuation cable is retained and sealed before allowing electrical connection, enabling verification of proper installation from inside the aircraft and ensuring inflation begins when the door is opened.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the connection box lid is left open to allow cable installation, then the cable can be installed, but electrical connection may be made prematurely causing safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector blocker is installed in advance on the connection box lid before cable installation begins. This preliminary action ensures that the blocker is already in position to prevent premature electrical connection, while the open lid allows cable installation to proceed. The blocker remains in place during installation and only after the lid is closed does it move to allow electrical connection.
2Measurement precision
If visual verification of cable connection is required, then installation can be confirmed, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connection box assembly performs self-verification through the electrical connector blocker mechanism. When the lid is closed, the blocker automatically moves from the blocking position to the non-blocking position, which can be detected from inside the aircraft. This automatic self-verification eliminates the need for manual visual inspection while maintaining installation accuracy confirmation.
3Ease of operation
If the electrical connector is always accessible, then electrical connection is easy, but cable installation may be incomplete causing safety hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector blocker serves as an intermediary element between the electrical connector and the external environment. It physically blocks access to the electrical connector during cable installation, ensuring completeness. Only after the lid is closed does the blocker move to allow electrical connection, thus mediating between installation requirements and operational safety.
Data Source
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AI summary
Connection box assembly (10) is provided for connecting evacuation slide actuation cable of evacuation slide actuation system to evacuation slide inflation system. Connection box assembly comprises connection box (24), connection box lid (22) coupled thereto, electrical connector blocker (800) coupled to connection box lid (22), and connection box slider (21) disposed within connection box (24). Connection box lid (22) is configured to slide between an open and closed position. Electrical connector blocker (800) is configured to prevent electrical connection to electrical connector (20) coupled to evacuation slide inflation system when connection box lid (22) is in open position and to permit electrical connection to electrical connector (20) when connection box lid (22) is in closed position. Connection box slider (21) is positioned to receive first cable end (12) of evacuation slide actuation cable when connection box lid (22) is in open position. Connection box lid (22) in closed position closes connection box (24) retaining and sealing connection box slider (21) and first cable end (12) inside connection box assembly (10).