Adjustable Insulation Blanket Clip for Tool-Free Frame Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing clip systems for securing insulation blankets to aircraft frames, such as Z frames, require specialized tools and are time-consuming and labor-intensive to install, with potential for damage to the clips.
Innovation Solution
A clip system integrally molded as a single piece of plastic, featuring adjustable clamp members with a ratchet mechanism for secure fitting to different sized structures without the need for a separate tool, and a quick-release feature for easy installation and removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If stainless steel spring clips are used to secure insulation blankets to frames, then the clips can be secured to structures, but the installation is time-consuming and labor-intensive requiring specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
The clip system is designed to be self-installing without requiring specialized tools. The resilient clip members can be manually manipulated to engage with the frame and insulation blanket, eliminating the need for external installation equipment and reducing labor complexity while maintaining installation speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip system divides the securing function into separate resilient clip members that can be independently installed and adjusted. This segmentation allows for simpler, faster installation of individual clips compared to traditional single-piece fastening systems, improving overall productivity while reducing operational complexity.
2Reliability
If specialized tools are used to install spring clips, then the clips can be properly engaged, but the tools may not be readily available and installation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient clip members are designed to be self-installing without requiring specialized tools. The natural resilience of the clip members allows them to be manually opened, positioned around the frame and insulation blanket, and secured through their own elastic properties, ensuring reliable engagement without external tool dependency.
Solution Approach 2:
The clip system utilizes changes in physical parameters (elastic deformation, resilient force) to enable tool-free installation. By leveraging the elastic properties of the resilient materials, the clips can be temporarily deformed for installation and then automatically return to their securing position, maintaining reliability without specialized tools.
3Productivity
If mallet-type tools are used to tap spring clips in place, then installation may be faster, but the clips can be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient clip members install themselves through manual manipulation without requiring external force application tools. The clips' own elastic resilience provides the necessary force for engagement, eliminating the need for mallet-type tools that could damage the clips while maintaining efficient installation speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient material of the clip members inherently provides cushioning and shock absorption during installation. This prior cushioning protects the clips from damage by absorbing installation forces gently, preventing the kind of impact damage that would occur with mallet-type tools while maintaining installation productivity.
4Reliability
If traditional spring clips are used, then they can secure insulation blankets, but they are sized and shaped to fit only particular types of structures
Solution Approach 1:
The resilient clip members are designed with universal adaptability to secure insulation blankets to various frame types and structures. The resilient material and configurable geometry allow the same clip design to accommodate different frame shapes and sizes, maintaining reliable securing capability across multiple application scenarios without requiring structure-specific clip variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The resilient clip members incorporate dynamic properties that allow them to adapt to different frame geometries. The elastic deformation capability enables the clips to conform to various frame shapes and sizes while maintaining secure engagement, providing both reliability and versatility across different structural configurations.
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
The clip system allows for quick and efficient mounting to various structures, including Z frames, without specialized tools, reducing installation time and minimizing the risk of clip damage, while providing a secure and adjustable fit.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of resilient clip members configured to be secured to a structure... each of the plurality of resilient clip members including an opening configured to receive a portion of the insulation blanket
Data Source
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AI summary
A clip system (100) is configured to secure an insulation blanket to a frame. The clip system (100) includes a first clamp member (102) including an adjustment arm (110) and a first engagement arm (112), and a second clamp member (104) including a sleeve (128) and a second engagement arm (112). The sleeve (128) is configured to adjustably retain the adjustment arm (110) to allow the first clamp member (102) and the second clamp member (104) to be moveably adjusted. The first engagement arm (112) and the second engagement arm (112) are configured to securely clamp portions of the insulation blanket and the frame therebetween.