Aircraft Propulsion Assembly Intermediate Radial Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing aircraft propulsion assembly design requires the secondary structure of the strut to extend forward, increasing the aircraft's mass, and the aerodynamic panels are prone to accidental opening during flight due to their articulation.
Innovation Solution
The propulsion assembly features an intermediate radial support connected to both the fan casing and the aerodynamic panel, eliminating the need for the secondary structure to support the panels, and fixing the aerodynamic panels to prevent accidental opening.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the secondary structure of the strut is extended forward to support the aerodynamic panels, then the panels can be supported, but the mass of the aircraft increases
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate portion is divided into multiple aerodynamic panels that are independently supported by radial supports extending from the fan casing. This segmentation allows each panel to be supported locally without requiring the secondary structure of the strut to extend forward, thereby reducing the overall mass of the aircraft while maintaining structural functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
Intermediate radial supports are introduced as intermediary elements between the fan casing and the aerodynamic panels. These radial supports transfer the load from the panels to the fan casing, eliminating the need for the secondary structure of the strut to extend forward and support the panels, thus reducing aircraft mass.
2Ease of operation
If the aerodynamic panels are articulated to allow opening, then access to the motorization unit is enabled, but accidental opening during flight occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic panels are designed with articulation mechanisms that allow them to be opened intentionally for maintenance access to the motorization unit. The dynamic articulation enables controlled movement between closed and open positions, providing ease of operation while maintaining structural integrity when closed.
Solution Approach 2:
Locking mechanisms are implemented to secure the aerodynamic panels in the closed position during flight operations. The preliminary locking action prevents accidental opening by engaging security features before flight, while allowing intentional opening when maintenance is required.
Data Source
AI summary
A propulsion assembly comprising a fan casing and a nacelle which comprises an air inlet which is connected to the front end of the fan casing, an intermediate portion which is positioned around the fan casing and a rear portion which cooperates with the rear end of the fan casing. The intermediate portion comprises at least one aerodynamic panel which extends from a front edge which is attached to the air inlet as far as a rear edge which is attached to the rear portion and at least one intermediate radial support comprising an internal edge which is connected to the fan casing and an external edge which is connected to the aerodynamic panel, this panel comprising a front edge which is connected to the air inlet by a first connection system. Also an aircraft with such a propulsion assembly.