Segmented Heat Shield Retainer for Aircraft Wheel Thermal Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft wheel and brake assemblies face thermal damage due to high temperatures generated during brake actuation, which existing heat shields do not adequately mitigate, leading to potential damage to wheels or tires.
Innovation Solution
A heat shield assembly comprising segmented heat shields with hook and clip members, where each segment includes a first and second hook member and corresponding clip members, allowing for secure engagement and positioning between the heat shield segments and retainers, effectively distributing heat away from the wheel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing heat shields are used, then thermal protection is provided, but the heat shields do not adequately mitigate thermal damage and may not securely position the heat shield segments
Solution Approach 1:
The heat shield is divided into multiple segments that can be separately installed and secured. Each segment includes hook members that engage with retainers positioned at different radial locations, allowing for modular assembly and improved thermal protection coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat shield segments are nested within the wheel well structure, with retainers positioned at different radial depths. The segments fit into the wheel well geometry, creating a nested arrangement that maximizes thermal protection while maintaining structural integrity.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If heat shield segments are positioned to provide thermal protection, then thermal damage is reduced, but the segments may not be securely retained in place
Solution Approach 1:
Hook members are pre-formed on the heat shield segments during manufacturing, ready for engagement with retainers. This preliminary preparation ensures that when the heat shield is installed, the segments can be quickly and securely retained without requiring additional fastening operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The heat shield segments are designed to be self-retaining through the hook member and retainer mechanism. The segments automatically secure themselves to the wheel well structure upon installation, eliminating the need for separate fastening components or complex assembly procedures.
3Reliability
If a secure retention mechanism is implemented, then heat shield positioning is improved, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is designed to be self-assembling, with hook members that automatically engage with retainers during installation. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex fastening procedures or additional tools, maintaining assembly simplicity while ensuring secure positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The same retainer design is used at multiple positions around the wheel well, creating a repeating pattern. This standardization allows for simplified manufacturing and assembly, as the same components and procedures are used throughout, reducing overall system complexity despite the multi-position retention requirement.
Data Source
AI summary
A heat shield assembly is disclosed. In various embodiments, the heat shield assembly includes a first heat shield segment having a first end and a second end spaced from the first end, the first end including a first hook member and the second end including a second hook member; and a first heat shield retainer including a first clip member configured to engage the first hook member and a second clip member.