Aircraft Heat Exchanger Support Module for Raised Hinge Axis

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Larger turbojets with increased bypass ratios pose a challenge as the hinge line moves upwards, making it difficult to attach fixed hinges to the mast, which is not adequately addressed by conventional heat exchanger arrangements.

Innovation Solution

An assembly comprising a mast and a heat exchanger fixed via a support module equipped with two fixed hinges for mounting hinged covers, allowing the hinge pin to be raised and enabling secure attachment of the heat exchanger above the mast.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the hinge line is moved upwards to accommodate larger turbojets with higher bypass ratios, then the engine assembly dimensions can be increased, but the fixed hinges can no longer be easily attached to the mast

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveengine assembly dimensionsVSAvoidattachment of fixed hinges to mast
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

A support module is introduced as an intermediary component between the mast and the heat exchanger. This support module includes a cradle that rests on the mast and a fixing means that secures the heat exchanger to the cradle. This intermediary structure allows the hinge line to be raised higher than the mast top while maintaining secure attachment points for the fixed hinges.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The support module extends in the vertical dimension by positioning the cradle above the mast top. The fixing means then secures the heat exchanger to this elevated cradle structure, effectively moving the attachment point to a higher dimension where the hinge line can be properly positioned for larger engine assemblies.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If the heat exchanger is fixed above the mast using conventional mounting brackets, then the heat exchanger can be secured, but the hinge line cannot be raised sufficiently for larger turbojets

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecuring of heat exchangerVSAvoidhinge line position
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLength of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The support module serves as an intermediary structure that decouples the heat exchanger mounting from direct attachment to the mast. The cradle rests on the mast while the fixing means secures the heat exchanger to the cradle, allowing the hinge line to be positioned higher than what would be possible with direct mast attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The support module divides the mounting function into separate components: a cradle that interfaces with the mast and a fixing means that interfaces with the heat exchanger. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each interface, enabling the hinge line to be raised while maintaining secure heat exchanger attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This configuration allows for the secure attachment of the heat exchanger on larger turbojets, maintaining aerodynamic efficiency and ensuring proper airflow, even with increased motorization dimensions.

Implementation Method 1

The heat exchanger is supplied, on the one hand, with hot air from the primary duct passing through the turbojet core, and, on the other hand, with cold air from the secondary duct of the turbojet. The hot air is cooled by the cold air and channeled towards the wing. The cold air is reheated and channeled outside.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat exchange: Heat Exchanger

Data Source

PatentEP4219312B1Assembly for an aircraft comprising a mast and a heat exchanger fixed to the mast via a support module
Publication Date: 2024.03.13 AIRBUS OPERATIONS (SAS)
  • EP4219312B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4219312B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4219312B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to an assembly (100) for an aircraft comprising a nacelle (18) of a turbojet engine which includes a cowling carrying secondary hinge fittings, a mast (16) fixed between the turbojet engine and a wing, a heat exchanger (102), and a support module (300) comprising a cradle (302) on which the heat exchanger (102) is fixed and fastening means (304) which secure the cradle (302) above the mast (16) and two first hinge fittings (104a-b) directly integral with the cradle (302), wherein each first hinge fitting (104a-b) is associated with one of the secondary hinge fittings of a cowling (19) to form a hinge. With such an arrangement, the hinge axis of the cowlings is raised.