Lockable Track System for Translating Nacelle Fanlet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern nacelle designs with translatable structures like fanlets lack secure locking mechanisms for both open and closed positions, posing a risk of accidental movement and injury to maintenance personnel.
Innovation Solution
A track system with a slider and track components, along with a spring-loaded bolt lock, is implemented to prevent axial translation of the fanlet in both open and closed positions by laterally engaging apertures, ensuring secure positioning and accessibility for maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a typical lock is used to secure the translatable structure, then the translatable structure can be secured in the closed position, but it cannot prevent accidental movement when open
Solution Approach 1:
The track is divided into multiple aperture locations along its length, with at least one aperture positioned to engage when the translatable structure is in the open position and another aperture positioned to engage when the structure is in the closed position. This segmentation allows the single lock to serve multiple positioning functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock is designed as a universal component that can secure the translatable structure in multiple positions (both open and closed) through a single mechanism. The lock engages with different apertures in the track depending on the desired position, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms for each position.
2Reliability
If the lock engages the aperture to prevent axial translation, then the translatable structure is secured, but maintenance personnel cannot easily access or operate the lock
Solution Approach 1:
A tool interface is provided as an intermediary mechanism that allows maintenance personnel to engage and disengage the lock from outside the engine nacelle. The tool interfaces with the lock mechanism, enabling operation without requiring direct internal access to the locking components.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock mechanism is designed to be self-contained and self-operating through the provided tool interface. The tool allows the lock to be engaged and disengaged from the exterior, making the system self-servicing for maintenance personnel without requiring disassembly or internal access.
Data Source
AI summary
An assembly is provided for an aircraft propulsion system. This assembly includes a fanlet and a track system configured to enable axial translation of the fanlet along a centerline between an open position and a closed position. The track system includes a first component, a second component and a lock. One of the first and the second components is configured as or otherwise includes a slider. The other one of the first and the second components is configured as or otherwise includes a track. The slider is mated with and configured to slide axially along the track. The lock is configured as or otherwise includes a bolt mounted with the first component. The lock is configured to move the bolt laterally into an aperture in the second component to prevent axial translation of the fanlet.