Identical Nacelle Latch Assemblies for Curved Door Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch systems for aircraft propulsion nacelle doors require multiple customized assemblies, increasing manufacturing costs and complexity due to location-dependent configurations, which complicates assembly and production.
Innovation Solution
A standardized latch assembly design with pivotally mounted latch mechanisms and pins, where the axis of the pins is non-parallel to the exterior surface, allowing for secure door closure with identical components across different locations, reducing the need for multiple configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple customized latch assemblies are used to fit different locations, then the aerodynamic fit and secure closure are improved, but the manufacturing cost and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single standardized latch assembly that can be used at multiple different locations around the nacelle door, replacing the need for multiple customized assemblies. The latch assembly includes a body, arm, spring, and pivot pin that can be universally mounted on curved surfaces at various orientations, achieving secure closure throughout while reducing part variety and manufacturing complexity
2Shape
If multiple customized latch assemblies are used for different locations, then the aerodynamic fit is improved, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized latch assembly design allows a single universal component to serve multiple locations with different aerodynamic requirements. The latch body and arm configuration can accommodate various mounting orientations on curved nacelle surfaces, maintaining aerodynamic fit while enabling economies of scale in manufacturing through standardized production of identical components
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple customized latch assemblies are used, then the location-specific fit is improved, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The universal latch assembly incorporates design features that allow it to be installed at multiple locations with different orientations and curvature requirements. The pivotally mounted arm and spring mechanism can adapt to various mounting configurations, achieving location-specific fit through a single standardized design rather than requiring multiple customized assemblies, thereby reducing assembly complexity
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 solution simplifies manufacturing and assembly by using identical latch assemblies at various locations, reducing costs and complexity while maintaining secure door closure, even with curved nacelle surfaces.
Implementation Method 1
a first pin that pivotally mounts the first latch mechanism... a second pin that pivotally mounts the second latch mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A nacelle for an aircraft propulsion system includes a first nacelle door, a second nacelle door and a plurality of latch assemblies. Each of the nacelle doors extends along and partially about a centerline. The latch assemblies are arranged along the centerline in an array, and configured to secure the nacelle doors together. A first of the latch assemblies includes a first latch mechanism and a first pin that pivotally mounts the first latch mechanism. A second of the latch assemblies includes a second latch mechanism and a second pin that pivotally mounts the second latch mechanism. An axis of the second pin is non-parallel with an axis of the first pin. The latch assemblies may be substantially identical to one another given the arrangement of the latch assemblies with the nacelle doors.