In-Wing Device Retention Without Drilling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional in-wing device-retention methods weaken the wing structure by drilling into it, limiting the placement of sensors and other devices due to material removal.
Innovation Solution
A multi-piece in-wing device-retention assembly comprising a first plate, a second plate, and a wedge plate, where the wedge plate is positioned between the first and second plates within a cavity defined by the wing's wall structure, and a force is applied to fix the assembly in place without drilling through the wing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If material is removed from the wing to form a recess for device retention, then devices can be securely retained in the wing, but the wing structure is weakened and the portions of the wing available for device placement are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is divided into separate components: a retention cup that fits into the wing cavity, a retaining plate that spans the cavity, and a fastening mechanism. This segmentation allows the retention function to be added without removing wing material, as the components are assembled within the existing cavity structure rather than requiring material removal for installation
Solution Approach 2:
The retention cup is nested within the wing cavity, and the retaining plate is positioned over the cavity to secure the cup. This nesting arrangement allows the retention system to be contained within the existing wing structure without requiring material removal, thereby maintaining wing integrity while achieving secure device retention
2Adaptability or versatility
If material is removed from the wing to create a recess, then devices can be positioned within the wing, but the available portions of the wing for device placement are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the retention system into separate components (cup, plate, fasteners) that can be assembled within the cavity, the system allows device placement without requiring material removal from the wing. This enables devices to be positioned in wing portions that would otherwise remain intact and available for other uses
Solution Approach 2:
The retention system utilizes the third dimension by placing components within the depth of the wing cavity rather than removing material from the wing surfaces. This dimensional approach allows devices to be retained within the wing volume without reducing the available surface area of the wing for additional device placements
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 secure device retention within the wing without compromising its structural integrity, allowing for device placement in any portion of the wing without material removal, thus maintaining the wing's strength.
Implementation Method 1
inserting a wedge plate into the wing and positioning the wedge plate between the first plate and the second plate, and applying a force to the wedge plate in a direction toward the narrow end to fix the first plate, the second plate and the wedge plate within the wing
Data Source
AI summary
A method of forming an in-wing device-retention assembly includes inserting a first plate into a wing, the wing having a wide end and a narrow end. The method includes inserting a second plate into the wing, inserting a wedge plate into the wing and positioning the wedge plate between the first plate and the second plate, and applying a force to the wedge plate in a direction toward the narrow end to fix the first plate, the second plate and the wedge plate within the wing.