Flexible Bellows APU Drainage Device Fireproof Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions fail to simultaneously maintain fireproof conditions and facilitate drainage of leakage fluids from aircraft auxiliary power unit (APU) compartments, as they either compromise on fireproof integrity or drainage efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A flexible and fireproof drainage device comprising a bellows that connects the APU engine to a drain pipe, supported by a structural piece attached to the maintenance door, allowing for effective drainage while maintaining fireproof sealing by absorbing misalignments and vibrations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigid drain pipe is installed to ensure fireproof conditions, then fireproof integrity is improved, but the ability to absorb misalignments and vibrations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bellows component is made of flexible material that can deform to absorb misalignments and vibrations between the APU engine and maintenance door, while maintaining fireproof sealing. This flexible element connects the rigid drain pipe to the engine, allowing relative movement without compromising the fireproof barrier.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible drainage system is used to accommodate movements, then adaptability is improved, but fireproof sealing capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The drainage system is divided into separate functional segments: a rigid fireproof drain pipe connected to the maintenance door, and a flexible bellows component connected to the engine. This segmentation allows each part to optimize its specific function while working together as a complete fireproof drainage system.
3Productivity
If the drain pipe is directly connected to the engine, then drainage efficiency is improved, but the system's ability to withstand vibrations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The bellows acts as an intermediary component between the drain pipe and the APU engine. It transmits leakage fluids from the engine to the drain pipe while absorbing vibrations and misalignments, thereby protecting the rigid drain pipe from vibration damage while maintaining efficient drainage flow.
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
Ensures reliable drainage of leakage fluids while maintaining fireproof conditions in APU compartments, even during maintenance operations, by providing a stable and sealed drainage system that withstands operational displacements and vibrations.
Implementation Method 1
a bellows which receives leakage fluids from the APU engine... the bellows connects the APU engine with the drain pipe
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft auxiliary power unit (APU) flexible and fireproof drainage device including a bellows which receives leakage fluids from an APU engine; a drain pipe which transfers leakage fluids outside the aircraft from the bellows, and a support piece surrounding the drain pipe. The bellows connects the APU engine with the drain pipe. The support piece provides stability to the bellows and the drain pipe.