Surface Preparation Support Apparatus for Ergonomic Low-Profile Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Low-profile surface preparation poses ergonomic challenges, such as repetitive motion injuries to the neck, shoulder, and lower back, due to the difficulty in accessing and maneuvering surface preparation tools on structures like aircraft underbellies.

Innovation Solution

A surface preparation support apparatus comprising a creeper and a linear actuator, allowing the surface preparation tool to be moved into operational contact with the low-profile surface and controlled by a user in a supine position, reducing physical strain through actuation and energization of the tool.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a person manually operates a surface preparation tool on a low-profile surface, then the tool can be directly applied to the surface, but the operator experiences ergonomic challenges and repetitive motion injuries

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveergonomic performanceVSAvoidrepetitive motion injuries

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A creeper device serves as an intermediary between the operator and the low-profile surface. The creeper includes a platform with wheels that allows the operator to move underneath the structure while supporting the surface preparation tool, eliminating the need for the operator to manually position and maneuver the tool while maintaining ergonomic positioning

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

A linear actuator replaces the manual mechanical positioning system. The actuator automatically extends and retracts to move the surface preparation tool into and out of engagement with the low-profile surface, substituting the operator's repetitive manual positioning actions with automated mechanical motion

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If the surface preparation tool is manually positioned and held against the low-profile surface, then contact with the surface is maintained, but the operator experiences physical strain

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconsistent contact with surfaceVSAvoidphysical strain

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The linear actuator replaces the operator's manual force application system. The actuator provides controlled extension to push the surface preparation tool against the low-profile surface with consistent force, and automatic retraction to release the tool, eliminating the need for the operator to continuously exert physical strain to maintain contact

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the operator manually maneuvers the surface preparation tool on the low-profile surface, then the tool can be repositioned as needed, but the operator experiences neck, shoulder, and lower back injuries

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetool repositioning capabilityVSAvoidrepetitive motion injuries to neck, shoulder, and lower back

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The creeper device serves as a mobile intermediary platform that carries the surface preparation tool underneath the low-profile structure. The operator controls the creeper's movement from a supine position on the platform, allowing the tool to be repositioned along with the creeper without requiring the operator to manually handle the tool, thereby preventing injuries to the neck, shoulder, and lower back

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The linear actuator and creeper combination replaces the operator's manual tool maneuvering system. The actuator handles the vertical positioning and engagement of the tool, while the creeper handles the horizontal repositioning, substituting the operator's repetitive manual maneuvers that cause injuries with automated and platform-based movement systems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11691245B2Surface preparation support apparatus and method

Publication Date: 2023.07.04 THE BOEING CO

AI summary

A surface preparation support apparatus includes a creeper and a linear actuator. The linear actuator includes a base-end and a tool-end that is opposite the base-end. The base-end is coupled to the creeper. The tool-end is linearly movable relative to the base-end. A surface preparation tool is coupleable to the tool-end of the linear actuator. The surface preparation support apparatus also includes an actuator-controller. The actuator-controller is coupled to the linear actuator. The actuator-controller is operable to selectively actuate the linear actuator. The surface preparation support apparatus further includes a tool-controller. The tool-controller is configured to be coupled to the surface preparation tool. The tool-controller is operable to selectively energize the surface preparation tool.