Foldable Wing Lockpin Connector for Easy Removal Under Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lockpin arrangements on foldable wings are not easily removable for maintenance purposes and can cause damage due to high indeterminate loads transferred to the actuator body during operation.
Innovation Solution
An actuator arrangement with a lockpin featuring a male and female connector system, including a spring-biased mechanism and a tool for easy connection and disconnection, allowing the lockpin to transition between locked and unlocked positions while preventing load transfer to the actuator housing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional lockpin arrangement is used to lock foldable wings, then the wing can be securely locked in-flight, but the lockpin is difficult to remove for maintenance purposes and may cause damage due to high indeterminate loads transferred to the actuator body
Solution Approach 1:
The lockpin system is divided into separate components: a lockpin with a male connector and an actuator arrangement with a female connector. This segmentation allows the lockpin to be easily disconnected from the actuator for maintenance while maintaining secure locking when engaged. The male and female connectors can be independently replaced if damaged.
Solution Approach 2:
A tool acts as an intermediary during the connection and disconnection process. The tool engages with the lockpin and actuator arrangement to facilitate easy assembly and disassembly without requiring forceful removal that could cause damage. This intermediary tool enables maintenance personnel to easily remove the lockpin for repair or replacement.
2Ease of repair
If the lockpin is made easily removable for maintenance, then maintenance access is improved, but the connection may become less secure and allow load transfer to the actuator housing
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the male and female connectors is designed to be dynamic rather than permanently fixed. The connectors can be easily engaged and disengaged using a tool, providing accessibility for maintenance while ensuring secure connection when properly engaged. The dynamic nature allows the connection to be made or broken as needed without compromising security during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The state of the connection changes from engaged to disengaged through controlled parameter changes. When the tool is used to connect or disconnect the lockpin, specific geometric parameters of the male and female connectors align to create either a secure locked state or an easily separated state. This controlled parameter change ensures security when connected and ease of removal when disconnected.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the lockpin allows radial movement to prevent load transfer to the actuator housing, then damage risk is reduced, but the locking mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The connector structure is segmented into distinct functional elements: the male connector with its specific geometry, the female connector with corresponding features, and the tool interface. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function - the male and female connectors provide the locking interface with radial movement capability, while the tool interface enables easy connection and disconnection without adding overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The male and female connectors are designed to automatically align and engage when the tool is used to connect them. The geometric features of the connectors self-align during the connection process, eliminating the need for complex alignment mechanisms. The radial movement capability is inherent in the connector design itself, requiring no additional active components to prevent load transfer to the actuator housing.
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 easy maintenance by allowing secure and efficient locking and unlocking of foldable wings, reducing the risk of damage and maintaining system integrity.
Implementation Method 1
The female connector may include at least one spring configured to bias the at least one hook of the male connector to the at least one groove of the female connector
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator arrangement includes an actuator screwshaft configured to receive a female connector, a lockpin having a male connector that is connected to the female connector. When the actuator screwshaft is rotated, in use, the lockpin is configured to move from a first position to a second position.