Rigidizing Latch Assembly for Avionics
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing attachment mechanisms for avionics boxes and orbital replaceable units lack a robust, robotically compatible solution for secure and efficient coupling to vehicle structures, particularly in aerospace applications, and are not limited to male/female pairs.
Innovation Solution
A rigidizing latch assembly comprising a male latch and receptacle with a driver mechanism, lead-in guides, and tensioners, allowing for secure attachment and detachment through a controlled operational sequence, compatible with robotic systems for aerospace applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing attachment mechanisms are used for avionics boxes, then coupling can be achieved, but the attachment lacks robustness and reliability for aerospace applications
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: male latch component with latch supports, female receptacle with guide surfaces, and driver mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining overall system reliability without excessive complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The driver mechanism acts as an intermediary that controls the latching and unlatching operations. This intermediary component provides controlled actuation of the latch supports, ensuring reliable engagement and disengagement while simplifying the overall control structure for aerospace applications.
2Extent of automation
If manual attachment procedures are used, then operation can be performed, but the process is time-consuming and not compatible with robotic systems
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism replaces manual mechanical operations with a driver-controlled system that can be actuated by robotic end-effectors. The driver mechanism translates robotic motion into precise latch support actuation, enabling automated attachment while maintaining operational simplicity through standardized interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly design incorporates universal features including standardized grasp interfaces and compatible driver mechanisms that can be used across different avionics boxes and receptacles. This multi-functionality enables robotic systems to perform the same attachment operation on various components without retooling.
3Strength
If simple latch structures are used, then device complexity is reduced, but the attachment security and rigidity are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly employs composite structural design combining rigid latch supports with flexible tensioning elements. This composite approach provides high attachment strength through the rigid components while using tensioners to maintain consistent engagement force, achieving strong attachment without excessive structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch supports are designed with controlled flexibility, allowing them to dynamically adjust during engagement and maintain optimal contact with the receptacle. This dynamic capability ensures secure attachment while simplifying the overall structure compared to fully rigid multi-component systems.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A rigidizing latch assembly 1 which, in embodiments, is a robotically compatible aerospace attachment mechanism, may be used to rigidly attach units to a structure and typically comprises male latch 10 and receptacle 20 configured to cooperatively couple. Male latch 10 typically comprises male latch housing 4 and latch assembly 5 movably disposed within male latch housing 4; driver 106 operatively in communication with latch support 101; male latch core 15; driver interface access port 117; and one or more extraction feet 18 operatively in communication with driver 106. Receptacle 20 comprises receptacle housing 24 sized to receive lower portion 3 of male latch housing 4; positioning target 12 adapted to provide a visual positioning targeting cue; and one or more latch interfaces 21 dimensioned to releasably mate with a corresponding lead-in guide of the plurality of lead-in guides 14.