Aircraft Floor-Beam Clamp Mount for Precise Inspection Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in aircraft fabrication is to precisely place inspection systems without disrupting the production process, especially when internal structural elements are exposed and there is no floor in place, requiring advanced robotic placement systems that increase costs.
Innovation Solution
An enhanced hanging clamped support system that allows technicians to easily install an inspection system from a floor beam using spring-loaded features, enabling one-handed installation and applying torque for secure clamping, suitable for various floor beam sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If inspection systems are placed using advanced robotic systems to achieve precise placement, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support system includes self-aligning features where the clamp automatically adjusts to the floor beam position and the inspection system self-aligns to the support structure through gravity and mechanical guidance, eliminating the need for complex robotic positioning systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into separate modular components: a support structure that attaches to the floor beam, and an inspection system that attaches to the support. This segmentation allows each component to be independently positioned and aligned using simple mechanical features rather than complex integrated robotic systems
2Measurement precision
If inspection systems are placed at precise locations to provide valuable feedback, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to placement difficulty
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is pre-configured with attachment features and positioning elements that guide the inspection system into the correct position before placement, allowing technicians to achieve precise positioning through simple attachment actions rather than complex alignment procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure acts as an intermediary between the floor beam and the inspection system, providing a stable mounting platform with built-in positioning features that simplify the placement process while ensuring the inspection system is positioned at the precise location needed for accurate measurements
3Ease of operation
If technicians use one-handed installation features for easier operation, then ease of operation is improved, but strength and securing reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The clamp incorporates spring-loaded mechanisms that dynamically adjust to the floor beam, providing automatic tension and secure engagement. The spring force maintains consistent clamping pressure without requiring excessive manual force to initiate the clamping action, enabling one-handed operation while ensuring strong securing
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp features curved or rounded contact surfaces that conform to the floor beam geometry, distributing clamping forces more effectively. This curvature allows the clamp to engage securely with the beam while requiring less manual force to achieve proper engagement, facilitating one-handed installation without compromising clamping strength
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
Facilitates efficient and cost-effective installation of inspection systems with enhanced stability and safety, minimizing production disruptions by allowing precise placement and reducing the need for advanced robotic systems.
Implementation Method 1
The adjustable clamp includes a first assembly that is attached to the frame and that comprises a horizontal part having a planar lower surface, and a second assembly that comprises a rigid part and that displaces laterally from the horizontal part when the adjustable clamp is open
Implementation Method 2
the inspection system applies torque that facilitates clamping of the floor beam by the support
Implementation Method 3
the inspection system applies torque that facilitates clamping of the floor beam by the support
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are provided for hanging inspection systems for aircraft from floor beams of those aircraft. One embodiment is a method that includes selecting a floor beam of an aircraft, attaching a hanging support to a floor beam, and placing an inspection system at a mount of the hanging support.