Lockable Panel Catch Assembly for Fastener-Light Track Beams
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional panel installations require a large number of fasteners, making the process laborious and time-consuming for both installation and removal, especially in applications like aircraft floor panels.
Innovation Solution
A panel assembly with a lockable catch mechanism that uses a non-linear edge to mate with a track beam flange, reducing the need for fasteners by allowing the panel to be securely retained through a moveable lockable catch system, which can be easily transitioned between locked and unlocked positions using a key.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a large number of fasteners are used to affix panels to structural frames, then the panels are securely retained, but the installation and removal process becomes laborious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into multiple lockable catches distributed along the panel edges, each independently engaging with the track beam. This segmentation allows the panel to be securely retained through multiple distributed connection points while enabling rapid installation by simply engaging each catch sequentially without requiring complex fastening procedures for each connection point
Solution Approach 2:
The lockable catches are designed to be movable between locked and unlocked positions, transforming the static fastening system into a dynamic one. This allows the panel to be quickly installed by moving catches to the locked position and equally quickly removed by moving them to the unlocked position, significantly improving installation and removal productivity while maintaining secure retention when locked
2Reliability
If a large number of fasteners are used to affix panels, then the panels are securely retained, but the overall weight of the assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The design extracts the essential retention function from numerous individual fasteners and consolidates it into fewer lockable catches. Each catch is designed to bear and distribute loads effectively, providing secure panel retention with minimal fastener count, thereby reducing the overall assembly weight while maintaining the required retention security
3Reliability
If conventional fasteners are used to affix panels, then the connection is secure, but the number of parts and complexity of assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fastening functions are merged into the lockable catch mechanism, which combines the retention, locking, and load-bearing functions into a single integrated component. This reduces the number of separate parts needed compared to conventional fastener systems while maintaining secure connection through the unified catch design that engages with the track beam
Data Source
AI summary
A panel assembly for installation onto a track beam including a beam flange having a non-linear edge is disclosed. The panel assembly includes a panel and a lockable catch moveably connected to the panel. The lockable catch includes a lockable mating edge configured to selectively mate with the non-linear edge of the beam flange of the track beam. The lockable catch also includes a lockable catch edge extending beyond the lockable mating edge. The lockable catch is moveable on a lower surface of the panel between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the unlocked position the lockable catch edge is retracted. In the locked position, the lockable mating edge mates with the non-linear edge of the beam flange and the lockable catch edge retains the panel on the track beam.