Lanyard Connector Segmented Threaded Release Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lanyard connectors for aircraft ordinance release are prone to damage due to ratcheting issues during disconnection, leading to high costs for replacement and repair of connectors and umbilical cables, as well as potential damage to the aircraft airframe.
Innovation Solution
The lanyard connector design incorporates a locking ring with grooves, a latching spring, and a reset spring, along with multiple threaded segments that separate radially to facilitate the release of the ordinance receptacle, minimizing the risk of ratcheting and enhancing durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single primary compression spring is used to prevent coupling sleeve shifting, then the connector can maintain structural integrity during normal operation, but ratcheting occurs during disconnection causing connector damage
Solution Approach 1:
The single primary compression spring is divided into multiple separate compression springs (first compression spring, second compression spring, third compression spring) that independently engage with different threaded segments. This segmentation allows each spring to control the movement of individual threaded segments, preventing ratcheting while maintaining overall structural integrity during ordinance release.
2Ease of operation
If the coupling sleeve is designed to shift during release, then the threaded segments can move outward for disconnection, but the primary spring causes ratcheting that damages the connector
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling sleeve is divided into multiple independent threaded segments (first threaded segment, second threaded segment, third threaded segment) that can move radially outward independently. Each segment is controlled by its own compression spring, allowing smooth outward movement during release without ratcheting, while the segments remain connected to the coupling sleeve body.
Solution Approach 2:
The threaded segments are designed to dynamically transition from a retracted position (engaging the ordinance receptacle) to an extended position (disengaged). The compression springs provide controlled dynamic movement, allowing the segments to shift outward smoothly during release and return to their original position afterward, preventing ratcheting damage.
3Force
If threaded segments are used for securing the ordinance, then strong engagement is achieved, but the segments become caught on threading during disconnection causing ratcheting
Solution Approach 1:
The single engagement interface is segmented into multiple independent threaded segments, each with its own compression spring. This allows each segment to move outward independently during disconnection, preventing the segments from catching on each other or the receptacle threading, thereby eliminating ratcheting while maintaining strong engagement during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The compression springs are designed to provide slightly more force than minimum required for engagement, ensuring the threaded segments remain firmly seated during normal operation. During release, this excess force ensures the segments move outward completely and smoothly, preventing any catching or ratcheting on the threading.
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 enhanced design significantly increases the longevity of the connector by preventing damage during ordinance release, reducing the likelihood of ratcheting and associated costs, while maintaining the ability to handle the forces associated with aircraft ordinance release.
Implementation Method 1
a latching spring, wherein the latching spring is partially disposed within the first groove at the first position; and wherein the latching spring engages the first groove at the second position
Implementation Method 2
a reset spring held in place by the connector cover; wherein the lanyard connector is configured to couple to a lanyard cable and an ordinance receptacle
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
Lanyard connectors for release of an ordinance are provided. The lanyard connectors include a coupling sleeve (1110) and locking ring (1155) movable between a first position and a second position. The lanyard connectors also include a latching spring (1150) and a reset spring (1160). The latching spring is partially disposed within a groove in the locking ring in the first position, and removed from the groove in the second position. The reset spring is held in place by a connector cover (1125) and interfaces with a second groove in the locking ring. The reset spring is compressed in the second position. The lanyard connectors allow for release of an ordinance receptacle when in the second position. Methods of using the connectors are also provided.