Aircraft Pre-cooler Removal Device with Guiding Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
The removal and installation of aircraft engine pre-coolers are complex due to their location near the engine, requiring the removal of thrust rods and thrust reverser cowling, making the process delicate and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a pylon-based system with guiding arms, a ramp, and adjustable supporting means, including a jack and basket, allows for controlled movement of the pre-cooler along circular arcs, supporting its weight and enabling removal or installation without disassembling other aircraft components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the pre-cooler is removed using traditional methods, then the pre-cooler can be accessed for repairs or replacement, but the thrust rod, thrust reverser cowling, or engine must be removed first, increasing operation complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized removal device as an intermediary tool that interfaces with the pre-cooler mounting structure. This device includes a base that attaches to the pre-cooler, guiding arms that provide controlled movement, and a lifting mechanism that enables safe removal without requiring disassembly of surrounding aircraft components. The intermediary device simplifies the removal process by providing a dedicated attachment and guidance system.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with pre-configured mounting features that allow attachment to the pre-cooler before the actual removal operation begins. The base and guiding arms are positioned and secured in advance, establishing a stable framework that guides the entire removal process. This preliminary setup eliminates the need for complex real-time adjustments during removal.
2Device complexity
If the pre-cooler is removed without specialized support, then the operation can be performed with simpler equipment, but the pre-cooler cannot be safely supported during movement and requires removal of major components
Solution Approach 1:
The removal device serves as a reliable intermediary support system between the pre-cooler and the aircraft structure. The base attaches securely to the pre-cooler, while the guiding arms provide controlled movement paths. The lifting mechanism ensures safe support during the entire removal process, eliminating the need to remove major components like thrust rods or engine.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is divided into functional segments: a base for attachment to the pre-cooler, guiding arms for controlled movement, and a lifting mechanism for safe support. Each segment performs a specific function, collectively providing reliable support during removal without requiring complex overall equipment.
3Speed
If the pre-cooler is moved without guidance, then the movement can be faster and less controlled, but the pre-cooler may collide with engine or thrust rod components
Solution Approach 1:
The guiding arms are designed with curved trajectories that match the spatial relationship between the pre-cooler and surrounding aircraft components. The circular arc paths of the guiding arms allow the pre-cooler to move smoothly around the engine and thrust rod, maintaining safe clearance throughout the movement. This curved guidance prevents collisions while enabling controlled speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The guiding arms provide continuous physical feedback during the movement process, automatically adjusting the pre-cooler's position to maintain safe distances from engine and thrust rod components. The mechanical guidance system ensures that the pre-cooler follows the correct trajectory, preventing collisions regardless of movement speed.
4Device complexity
If the pre-cooler is supported by the aircraft structure during movement, then the pre-cooler can be moved without independent support equipment, but the aircraft structure must be modified or disassembled
Solution Approach 1:
The removal device acts as an intermediary that transfers the pre-cooler from the aircraft structure without requiring permanent modifications. The base attaches to the pre-cooler, and the guiding arms interact with the aircraft structure through temporary mounting points on the pylon. This allows the pre-cooler to be supported and moved using the existing aircraft structure without disassembly or permanent changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is designed with pre-configured mounting features that attach to standard locations on the aircraft pylon. The guiding arms are positioned and secured in advance to predetermined attachment points, eliminating the need for on-site modifications to the aircraft structure. This preliminary configuration allows safe support using existing structural elements.
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
Facilitates the removal and installation of pre-coolers by allowing precise control over the pre-cooler's movement, reducing the need for additional support and minimizing the complexity of the operation, thus simplifying the process and maintaining clearance with other aircraft elements.
Implementation Method 1
a jack (30) mounted respectively on a support plate (44) attached in the position of use to a part of the pylon (14), and a carried plate (60) attached to the pre-cooler (16)
Implementation Method 2
a pair of guiding arms (24) mounted on said base (22) and capable of guiding the pre-cooler (16) along two circular arcs extending in the same vertical plane and having different centers
Implementation Method 3
a basket (32) for receiving said pre-cooler (16)
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a device (20) for installing and/or removing a pre-cooler (16) of an aircraft engine (10). Said device comprises, in a position of use, a mounting flange (22) supported in use by a pylon of an aircraft, at least a floor (68) supporting a pair of guiding arms (24), a ramp (26), a basket (32) for receiving said cooler (16) and adjustable support means (30) of said cooler for removing or mounting said cooler on pylon (16).