Pivoting Sub-Assembly Support for Faster Aircraft Fuselage Installation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly of large structures, such as airplanes, is hindered by labor-intensive and time-consuming manual processes for positioning sub-assemblies, leading to inefficiencies in assembly line operations.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a tool with a pivotably mounted sub-assembly support, actuators, interior and exterior conforming devices, and an automated guide vehicle, which enables precise positioning and installation of sub-assemblies within an aircraft fuselage by tilting and adjusting the sub-assembly support relative to the base, interfacing with interior and exterior surfaces, and moving along a conveyor system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual processes are used for locating, moving, and positioning parts, then labor flexibility is maintained, but installation time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning processes with an automated mechanical system comprising a motorized cart, adjustable support structure, and positioning mechanism. The motorized cart automatically transports sub-assemblies to the assembly location, while the adjustable support structure with multiple positioning holes provides precise placement, eliminating manual labor and reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning system is designed to be self-positioning through the adjustable support structure that can be configured at multiple predetermined positions. The system serves itself by having built-in positioning capabilities through the array of holes and corresponding pins, eliminating the need for external manual intervention during the positioning process.
2Productivity
If manual positioning processes are used, then equipment complexity is minimized, but labor intensity increases and assembly efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is divided into separate functional modules: a motorized cart for transportation, an adjustable support structure for positioning, and a sub-assembly holder. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, making the overall system manageable despite increased complexity, while significantly improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure incorporates dynamic adjustability with multiple positioning holes arranged in different orientations, allowing the system to adapt to various sub-assembly sizes and positions. This dynamic capability enables the system to handle different assembly tasks without requiring complete redesign, justifying the increased device complexity through enhanced versatility and productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein in a system for positioning a sub-assembly for installation. The system comprises a tool comprising a base and a sub-assembly support. The sub-assembly support is positioned above the base and pivotably mounted to the base at a pivot axis. The tool is positioned adjacent to an interior surface of an assembling body and configured to support a sub-assembly. The system also comprises at least one actuator that is selectively operable to tilt a first surface of the sub-assembly support toward an opening in the assembling body and adjust an angle of the sub-assembly support, relative to the base. The system further comprises an interior conforming device attached to the tool and configured to interface with the interior surface of the assembling body. The system additionally comprises an exterior conforming device configured to interface with the exterior surface of the assembling body.