Root End Spar Plate Closure Tool With Stepped Pins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional root end spar plate closure tools are ineffective when cuff-to-blade attachment bushings are installed in the blade spar, as they fail to properly close the root end spar plate.
Innovation Solution
A root end spar plate closure tool with a spar plate compression assembly, featuring a first and second flange with pin openings, stepped pins for universal fit, and an adjustable pressure plate with torque screws for applying compressive force, allowing for secure bonding of the spar plate to the blade root regardless of bushing presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional root end spar plate closure tool is used, then the tool structure is simple, but the tool cannot accommodate blades with cuff-to-blade bushings installed
Solution Approach 1:
The closure tool is designed with stepped pins that can accommodate both blades with cuff-to-blade bushings and blades without bushings. The stepped pin configuration allows the same tool to perform multiple functions across different blade types, eliminating the need for separate tools for each blade configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure tool employs multiple discrete components including separate stepped pins, torque screws, and flange assemblies. This segmentation allows the tool to be configured for different blade types while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. Each component can be independently selected or adjusted based on the specific blade configuration.
2Reliability
If the spar plate compression assembly applies high compressive force, then the bonding reliability improves, but the risk of damaging the blade root or spar plate increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression force is distributed through multiple torque screws positioned at different locations around the spar plate. This local distribution of compressive force ensures reliable bonding while preventing concentration of stress that could damage the blade root or spar plate. Each torque screw applies force locally to its specific engagement point.
Solution Approach 2:
The closure tool allows for progressive application of compressive force through the torque screws. The operator can incrementally tighten each torque screw to gradually increase compression, monitoring the bonding process and adjusting force application as needed. This dynamic control prevents sudden excessive force that could cause damage.
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
Enables secure and universal closure of the root end spar plate, accommodating blades with or without cuff-to-blade bushings, ensuring reliable bonding and adaptability for various aircraft components.
Implementation Method 1
A root end spar plate closure tool includes a spar plate compression assembly for applying compressive force to a spar plate
Implementation Method 2
tightening torque screws on the closure tool to apply compression to a spar plate for bonding to blade root
Data Source
AI summary
A root end spar plate closure tool includes a spar plate compression assembly for applying compressive force to a spar plate, a first flange extending from the spar plate compression assembly and including at least one pin opening, and a second flange extending from the spar plate compression assembly and including at least one pin opening. The first flange and the second flange define a blade root gap sized to receive a blade root.