Aircraft Nacelle Cap Fixing with Centering and Spring Tensioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aircraft nacelle cap fixing systems are bulky and complex, making them difficult to assemble and adjust efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A mast and nacelle assembly with a cap equipped with simple and easy-to-implement tensioning and centering systems, comprising articulated threaded rods, spring elements, and ball joint systems, which reduce bulk and facilitate assembly and adjustment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional fixing means are used for the nacelle cap, then the cap can be securely fixed to the structure, but the fixing means become bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The fixing system is divided into separate functional modules: centering systems with shafts and bores for positioning, and tensioning systems with threaded rods and spring elements for securing. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently without the bulk and complexity of conventional integrated fixing means.
2Reliability
If conventional fixing means are used for the nacelle cap, then the cap can be securely fixed to the structure, but the fixing means become bulky in size
Solution Approach 1:
The spring element is nested within the tensioning system structure, with the threaded rod passing through the spring element which is positioned between the first fitting and the second fitting. This nesting arrangement minimizes the overall volume of the tensioning system while maintaining its securing function.
3Reliability
If conventional fixing means are used for the nacelle cap, then the cap can be securely fixed to the structure, but assembly and adjustment become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The centering systems are designed to automatically position the cap relative to the structure through the shaft- bore engagement before the tensioning systems are fully engaged. This preliminary centering action simplifies the subsequent assembly of the tensioning systems and ensures proper alignment during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element provides dynamic adjustment capability within the tensioning system, allowing for easy adjustment of the cap position and tension during assembly and maintenance. The threaded rod can be rotated to adjust the spring compression, providing simple manual adjustment without complex tools or procedures.
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 solution significantly reduces the bulk of the fixing means while ensuring easy assembly and adjustment, providing a more compact and effective aerodynamic connection between the cap and nacelle components.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element, and a stopping means, where the first fitting has an engagement wall crossed by an orifice and having a face oriented towards the second fitting and an opposite face, where the threaded rod passes through the orifice, where the spring element is fitted onto the threaded rod and positioned on the side of the face of the engagement wall which is opposite the second fitting
Implementation Method 2
the articulation of the threaded rod is achieved by a ball joint system mounted on the second fitting of the stopping means
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an assembly of an aircraft mast and nacelle where the nacelle comprises a structure, a cap (220) and two centering systems (302) and two tensioning systems (304). Each tensioning system (304) comprises a first fitting (306) fixed to the structure and having an interlocking wall (310) through which an orifice (312) passes, a second fitting (308) fixed to the cap (220), a threaded rod (314) articulated on the second fitting (308) and passing through the orifice (312), a spring element (318) fitted onto the threaded rod (314) against the face of the interlocking wall (310) opposite the second fitting (308), and a stop means (320) blocking the spring element (318). Each centering system (302) includes a first fitting (330) fixed to the structure and having a bore (334) and a second fitting (332) fixed to the cap (220) and carrying a shaft (336) housed in the bore (334).With such an installation, the bulk of the fixing means is reduced.