Safety Connector Threshold Retention Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety connectors for gas turbine engines fail to prevent damage to ancillary equipment during a blade-off event, as they either allow uncontrolled movement or require precise setup, and do not prevent the initial failure of the mounting point, leading to potential damage to other engines and the fuselage.
Innovation Solution
A safety connector with a retention mechanism that changes configurations based on a predetermined threshold force, using beam-springs to bias the members towards a locked position, allowing interlocking protrusions and indentations to secure components, thereby isolating them from each other's movement and dissipating energy from traveling waves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a wire lanyard is used to retain the component after mounting point failure, then the component is prevented from being ejected, but the component is allowed uncontrolled free movement which can result in component failure
Solution Approach 1:
The safety connector transitions from a static locked state to a dynamic controlled movement state when threshold force is exceeded. The retention mechanism allows controlled relative movement between first and second members while maintaining connection, enabling the component to move in a controlled manner rather than uncontrolled free movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector changes its mechanical parameters (from locked to movable) based on the force parameter. When the force between first and second members exceeds the predetermined threshold, the retention mechanism changes configuration, allowing the system to adapt its behavior based on operating conditions.
2Reliability
If a catcher-bracket is used to catch the component after mounting point failure, then the component is retained, but precise and accurate setup is required to position it at the appropriate distance
Solution Approach 1:
The safety connector performs its own setup and positioning automatically. The beam-springs and retention mechanism are designed to engage and position themselves correctly without requiring external adjustment or precise pre-positioning during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention mechanism is pre-configured with beam-springs and interlocking features that automatically engage when the connector is installed. The system prepares the retention function in advance through its design, eliminating the need for precise post-installation positioning.
3Strength
If a retention mechanism with interlocking protrusions and indentations is used, then secure engagement is maintained until threshold force is exceeded, but the mechanism must change configuration when force exceeds the threshold
Solution Approach 1:
The retention mechanism is segmented into distinct functional elements: beam-springs for biasing, protrusions for engagement, and indentations for locking. This segmentation allows each element to perform its specific function while working together as an integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The design merges multiple functions into a single integrated mechanism: the beam-springs provide both the biasing force and the threshold detection, while the protrusions and indentations provide both locking and controlled movement capabilities. This consolidation reduces overall system complexity.
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
The safety connector effectively isolates components, preventing damage by dissipating energy from traveling waves and maintaining secure engagement until forces exceed the threshold, thus reducing the risk of component failure and damage to surrounding equipment.
Implementation Method 1
the biasing arrangement comprising a plurality of beam-springs
Implementation Method 2
the biasing arrangement comprising a plurality of beam-springs
Implementation Method 3
isolating each component from movement of the other component... dissipating energy from traveling waves
Data Source
AI summary
A safety connector (2) comprising: a first member (4) and a second member (6) movably coupled to one another; wherein the first and/or second members (4, 6) comprise a retention mechanism (14a, 14b, 16); wherein the retention mechanism (14a, 14b, 16) has a first configuration which prevents relative movement between the first and second members (4, 6) and a second configuration which allows relative movement between the first and second members (4, 6); and wherein the retention mechanism (14a, 14b, 16) changes from the first configuration to the second configuration when a force between the first and second members (4, 6) exceeds a predetermined threshold force.