Split Joint Assembly for Mobile Platform Modules
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current split joints for mobile platform modules, such as aircraft crew rests, require numerous fasteners and large shear plates, making installation and removal time-consuming and costly, while also being unsightly when exposed.
Innovation Solution
A split joint design featuring an interlocking tongue and groove structure with reduced fasteners, utilizing extension beams and receivers to transmit mechanical stress, allowing for faster and cleaner assembly/disassembly, and providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If current split joint design with many fasteners and large shear plates is used, then mechanical load transmission is adequate, but installation and removal time increases and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into discrete components: tongues attached to one module portion, grooves attached to the opposing module portion, and beams that bridge across the interface. This segmentation allows for simpler individual components that are easier to install and remove, while collectively providing the necessary structural connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The tongues and grooves are pre-attached to the module portions during manufacturing, so that during installation only the beams need to be connected. This preliminary action reduces the number of fastening operations required during field installation, significantly improving installation speed.
2Ease of manufacture
If current split joint design with many fasteners is used, then mechanical strength is sufficient, but assembly and disassembly cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple structural functions are merged into the beam component: it provides mechanical strength across the interface, holds the tongue-groove structures together, and transmits loads between module portions. This consolidation reduces the total number of fasteners needed while maintaining adequate strength through the integrated beam structure.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If split joint is exposed to interior of aircraft cabin, then structural function is provided, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tongue and groove structures serve as intermediaries that connect the module portions while providing a cleaner, more aesthetically pleasing interface than traditional fastener-heavy connections. When positioned on the interior side of the module portions, these interlocking structures present a smoother appearance suitable for aircraft cabin interiors.
Data Source
AI summary
A module (114) for a mobile platform, having a split joint (226), includes fir (114a) and second (114b) module portions, having an interface between the portions. A receiver (234) is coupled to the first portion, and a beam (230) extends from the second portion, the beam being configured to attach to the receiver across the interface. Interlocking tongue and groove structure (242,244) is disposed on the first and second portions at the interface. Connection of the beam and receiver causes the tongue and groove structure to interconnect.