Aircraft Lower-Shell Assembly Platform for Twist-Free Fuselage Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft fuselage assembly methods face challenges in maintaining the shape of the lower shell during assembly, particularly due to deformation issues such as twisting, which can lead to misalignment of components.
Innovation Solution
An assembly platform with adjustable frames, cradles, and alignment systems that include cradle surfaces with rigid pads and suction cups to maintain the lower shell's shape, along with adjustable feet and alignment masts to ensure precise alignment and stability during assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If traditional assembly methods are used without specialized support structures, then the assembly process is simpler and faster to set up, but the lower shell deforms and twists during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly platform is divided into modular components including multiple frames, adjustable cradles, and independent support structures. Each cradle can be independently positioned and adjusted, allowing the system to accommodate different lower shell configurations while maintaining shape stability without requiring a completely complex integrated structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary assembly platform structure that mediates between the lower shell and the ground/assembly environment. This platform with its adjustable frames and cradles acts as a buffer that prevents direct contact forces from deforming the lower shell, thereby stabilizing its shape without requiring modifications to the lower shell itself
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid support structures are used to maintain lower shell shape, then shape stability is improved, but the risk of deformation or damage to the lower shell increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cradles are designed with adjustable and movable characteristics, allowing them to adapt dynamically to the lower shell's position and shape. The adjustable frames can be repositioned along the longitudinal axis, and the cradles themselves can be adjusted in height and angle, providing a dynamic support system that maintains shape stability while accommodating variations without causing deformation
Solution Approach 2:
The support structures incorporate adjustable parameters including height, angle, and position of the cradles. By changing these parameters, the platform can optimize its support configuration for different lower shell geometries and assembly stages, maintaining shape stability while minimizing the risk of deformation through proper parameter selection
3Manufacturing precision
If adjustable frames and cradles are implemented to maintain shape and enable alignment, then manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity and setup time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable frames and cradles serve multiple functions: they support the lower shell weight, maintain its shape, enable precise alignment through adjustment mechanisms, and provide a stable base for assembly operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized devices for each function, thereby improving manufacturing precision without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The platform allows for preliminary positioning and alignment of the lower shell before final assembly operations. The adjustable cradles can be pre-positioned to match the desired final configuration, and the lower shell can be aligned and secured in the correct position before other components are assembled, thereby improving manufacturing precision while reducing the complexity of real-time adjustments during assembly
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 platform effectively maintains the shape of the lower shell and ensures accurate alignment of fuselage components, reducing deformation and improving the assembly process efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the fixing device(s) for the receiving surface(s) each correspond to a suction cup fixed to the receiving surface(s)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
- Assembly platform designed to handle at least one lower aircraft shell without deforming it for the purpose of assembling an aircraft fuselage body. - The assembly platform (1) comprises at least one rectangular frame (4), at least two frames (5) having an adjustable angle relative to the rectangular frame (4), at least two adjustment systems (8) for adjusting the angle of the frame (5), and at least two cradles (6) fixed to the frames (5) and designed to receive the lower shell (2) and to hold the lower shell (2) in a desired shape. The cradles of the assembly platform prevent deformation of the lower shell during the assembly of the fuselage body.