Modular Wing Skin Support for Reconfigurable Aircraft Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current support systems for attaching wing skins to wing boxes create obstacles for personnel and equipment, are less ergonomic, and are not reconfigurable, requiring dedicated tooling and obstructing access, which increases costs and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A modular support system comprising support modules with positioning, retention, and attachment systems that allow for reconfiguration to accommodate different aircraft types and geometries, enabling efficient and ergonomic support and loading of wing skins without obstructing access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a currently available support system is used to support and load a wing skin, then the wing skin can be attached to the wing box, but the support system creates obstacles that limit access to the wing skin and/or wing box by personnel and/or equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into multiple independent support modules that can be individually positioned and adjusted. Each module can be moved independently to provide support while maintaining clear access paths for personnel and equipment, resolving the contradiction between structural support and accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The support modules are designed to be movable and reconfigurable rather than fixed, allowing them to be dynamically positioned to provide necessary support while clearing access pathways. This dynamic capability enables the system to adapt its configuration to balance structural support requirements with operational access needs.
2Ease of operation
If a currently available support system is used, then the wing skin can be supported, but operators must work at a higher work height than desired and/or from raised platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into multiple adjustable modules that can be positioned at different heights and locations. This segmentation allows the support structure to be configured to bring the work surface to a comfortable working height for operators, eliminating the need for raised platforms and improving ergonomic conditions.
3Productivity
If a currently available support system is used, then the wing skin can be loaded, but drilling operations and assembly operations must be performed around obstructions created by the support system
Solution Approach 1:
The support modules are designed with dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing them to be moved out of the way during drilling and assembly operations. This dynamic reconfiguration enables operators to perform operations efficiently without navigating around fixed obstructions, improving both productivity and ease of operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a currently available support system is used, then the wing skin can be attached, but the system is not reconfigurable for different types of aircraft
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into standardized, modular components that can be independently configured. This segmentation enables the system to be reconfigured for different aircraft types by simply rearranging or replacing modules, providing adaptability without requiring complete system redesign and managing complexity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The support modules are designed with universal interfaces and adjustable features that allow them to function with multiple aircraft types. This multi-functionality enables a single set of modular components to adapt to different aircraft geometries and requirements, achieving versatility while controlling system complexity through standardized design.
5Ease of manufacture
If a currently available support system is used, then the wing skin can be loaded, but dedicated tooling is required which increases the cost of using the support system
Solution Approach 1:
The support modules incorporate universal attachment interfaces and standardized tooling points that can accommodate different aircraft types and tooling requirements. This universality eliminates the need for dedicated tooling for each aircraft type, reducing costs while managing complexity through standardized, multi-purpose components.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method for supporting an object. In one illustrative embodiment, an apparatus may comprise a support structure, a positioning system, and a retention system. The positioning system may be associated with the support structure and configured to position the support structure with respect to a number of linear axes. The retention system may be associated with the support structure. The retention system may be configured to retain a portion of an object and move the portion of the object towards a platform such that the portion of the object substantially conforms to a shape of the platform.