U-Shaped Pin Joint Bushing Layout for Float Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
The design of pin joint assemblies in aircrafts faces challenges due to restricted internal space, where bushing arrangements are limited by structural and aerodynamic considerations, affecting the positioning of pin joints and adjacent components.
Innovation Solution
A pin joint assembly featuring a U-shaped bushing with radially extending flanges that can be positioned anywhere along the pin, reducing float and allowing for relative movement, while providing a redundant slip path and increased design flexibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional bushing arrangements are used in pin joint assemblies, then the design is constrained by restricted internal space in aircraft wings, but the positioning flexibility of pin joints and adjacent components is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing arrangement is divided into a U-shaped bushing and a separate float reduction component. The U-shaped bushing can be positioned independently along the pin, while the float reduction component is positioned separately, allowing flexible arrangement within the restricted space and reducing the complexity of the overall bushing arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The U-shaped bushing extends radially outward from the pin axis, utilizing the radial dimension rather than only the axial dimension. This allows the bushing to accommodate float reduction in one dimension while maintaining positioning flexibility in other dimensions, effectively resolving the space constraint issue.
2Ease of operation
If a large amount of float is provided to a pin joint assembly for ease of assembly, then assembly is easier, but the float must be reduced prior to operation which complicates the design
Solution Approach 1:
The U-shaped bushing is pre-positioned on the pin during assembly, establishing the initial float condition. The float reduction component is then positioned separately to automatically reduce the float to the required operational level, eliminating the need for complex post-assembly float reduction mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The float reduction component acts as an intermediary element between the U-shaped bushing and the pin joint operation. It mediates the transition from assembly float to operational float, simplifying the overall design by providing a dedicated, simple mechanism for float control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the U-shaped bushing is positioned adjacent the head end of the pin, then positioning flexibility is maximized, but space for obstructions or maintenance access may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The bushing system is segmented into the U-shaped bushing and float reduction component, which can be positioned independently. This allows the U-shaped bushing to be placed at the optimal location for positioning flexibility while the float reduction component can be positioned elsewhere to provide access space, resolving the conflict between positioning flexibility and access space.
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
This configuration reduces float in pin joint assemblies, enhances positioning flexibility, and allows for larger obstructions or maintenance access, improving the integration of pin joints within aircraft structures without compromising aerodynamic profiles.
Implementation Method 1
various bushing arrangements to reduce the friction between respective rotating surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
A pin joint assembly is disclosed having a first lug and a second lug, a pin extending through the first and second lugs, a U-shaped bushing between the first lug and the pin, wherein the U-shaped bushing includes a first end flange and a second end flange that extend radially outwards and retain the U-shaped bushing to the first lug, and wherein the U-shaped bushing includes a bearing surface between the first and second end flanges on which the first lug is slidable.