Lightweight Cargo Hook Using Composite Materials
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing external cargo systems for aircraft add weight and drag, reducing speed and fuel efficiency, especially in high-speed aircraft that occasionally carry external loads.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight cargo hook apparatus using high-strength alloys, such as aluminum or titanium-based materials, that supports loads up to 26,000 pounds while maintaining a weight of less than 55 pounds, with a stowable design to minimize aerodynamic drag during non-cargo operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional external cargo hook systems are used, then cargo transport capability is provided, but weight and drag increase reducing speed and fuel efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by transitioning from traditional steel or aluminum alloy hook systems to carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite materials. This material substitution fundamentally changes the weight parameter while maintaining structural strength, achieving a 70-80% weight reduction for the hook assembly and associated hardware while preserving cargo transport capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent directly implements composite materials by using carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) for the pendent guide lines and hook assembly components. These composite materials provide high strength-to-weight ratio, enabling the system to support heavy cargo loads (20,000-50,000 pounds) while dramatically reducing the weight of the transport system itself compared to traditional metallic materials.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional external cargo hook systems are used, then cargo transport capability is provided, but aerodynamic drag increases reducing speed and fuel efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite materials with superior specific strength properties. This enables the design of thinner, more aerodynamic pendent guide lines and hook assemblies that generate less drag while maintaining the capability to transport heavy cargo loads externally.
3Weight of moving object
If lightweight materials are used for cargo hook assembly, then weight and drag are reduced, but strength and load-bearing capacity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent directly addresses this contradiction by using carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composite materials that provide exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. The CFRP construction enables the hook assembly to weigh 70-80% less than traditional metallic systems while maintaining or exceeding the load-bearing capacity required for heavy cargo transport (20,000-50,000 pounds).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by designing the pendent guide lines and hook assembly with varying fiber orientations, layer configurations, and material densities in different regions. This localized optimization ensures that each component is engineered with the precise strength characteristics needed for its specific structural role while minimizing overall weight.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a cargo hook apparatus for securing cargo external to an aircraft for transportation, the apparatus comprising, pendent sling means, an attachment for securing the pendent sling means to the aircraft, and a cargo hook assembly, where the cargo hook assembly comprises a high-strength, lightweight alloy, and where the cargo hook assembly weighs less than about 55 pounds.