Frangible Pivot Pin Load Indicator for Aircraft Hard Landing Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for determining if an aircraft has experienced a 'Hard Landing' are time-consuming, often taking up to three weeks, which is not acceptable for aircraft operators, as they require extensive data analysis and are not always tolerated within the necessary timeframe.
Innovation Solution
A load indicator comprising a frangible pivot pin with a cavity filled with a liquid indicator, which escapes when the pin fractures under excessive load, providing a quick and visual indication of a hard landing or excessive towing forces, allowing for rapid inspection without compromising aircraft safety or operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If data analysis methods are used to confirm hard landing events, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time worsens (taking up to 3 weeks)
Solution Approach 1:
The load indicator performs the measurement action in advance by continuously monitoring loads during flight and automatically recording exceedance events on the flight deck, so that when landing occurs, the data is already captured and ready for immediate review, eliminating the need for time-consuming post-landing analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual data analysis methods with an automated electronic monitoring system that uses load sensors, processors, and display devices to automatically detect, record, and present hard landing events, dramatically reducing the time required from weeks to minutes
2Loss of time
If frangible pivot pin with liquid indicator is used, then loss of time is reduced (rapid indication), but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load indicator uses a frangible pivot pin containing colored liquid that escapes upon excessive load, creating a visible color change or liquid appearance on the flight deck that provides immediate visual confirmation of hard landing events without requiring complex electronic displays or processing systems
Solution Approach 2:
The pivot pin is designed as a disposable indicator component that is replaced after each use, even if not activated, ensuring readiness for the next flight and eliminating the need for complex reset mechanisms or long-term maintenance of the indicator system
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
Enables rapid inspection of aircraft landing gear within normal turnaround times, typically 4 hours, allowing for immediate identification of hard landings or excessive towing forces without requiring specialist tools, ensuring aircraft safety and operational continuity.
Implementation Method 1
the first load bearing member defines a cavity with the second load bearing member such that it is frangible above an indicator load, and the cavity contains an indicator liquid which escapes from the cavity once the first load bearing member is fractured by said load
Data Source
AI summary
A load indicator comprises a load bearing assembly of first and second load bearing members (23, 22) connected together to bear a lateral load applied to the first member (23), the first load bearing member defining a cavity (25) with the second load bearing member such that it is frangible above an indicator load, and the cavity (25) containing an indicator liquid which escapes from the cavity once the first load bearing member is fractured by said load. The load bearing members (22, 23) comprise cylindrical members arranged concentrically with the outer member (23) having a portion of reduced thickness to render it frangible and to define the cavity (25). The cavity (25) includes an internal volume within the second load bearing member (22). The load indicator may be configured as a load bearing pin to connect two components.