Upper Torque Link Latch Assembly for Lightweight Stow Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanisms for maintaining the upper torque link in a stowed position within aircraft shock struts increase part count, weight, and costs, making them undesirable for maintenance and operation.
Innovation Solution
A torque link assembly with a latch mechanism that includes a rotatably coupled latch fitting and a fixed stop fitting, allowing the upper torque link to be securely held in a stowed position using a spring element, reducing the need for additional components and minimizing weight and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a latch mechanism is added to hold the upper torque link in a stowed position, then the upper torque link can be securely maintained during maintenance and operation, but the part count, weight, and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is integrated into the existing torque link assembly by utilizing the alignment feature and existing structural elements. The latch fitting and stop fitting are incorporated as additional components that work with the alignment feature rather than requiring a separate, independent latching system, thereby reducing the overall part count increase.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment feature serves multiple functions: it provides geometric alignment between the upper and lower torque links during normal operation, and it serves as the mounting basis for the latch mechanism to hold the upper torque link in the stowed position. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components.
2Reliability
If a latch mechanism is added to hold the upper torque link in a stowed position, then the upper torque link can be securely maintained during maintenance and operation, but the weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism components (latch fitting, stop fitting, and spring element) are integrated into the existing torque link assembly structure, utilizing the alignment feature and existing mounting points. This integration approach minimizes the addition of separate, heavy components while achieving the required latching function.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism uses simple, lightweight components (latch fitting, stop fitting, and spring element) that are easy to manufacture and replace if needed. These components provide reliable latching functionality without requiring heavy-duty materials or complex structures.
3Ease of operation
If the upper torque link is stowed in a raised position, then maintenance workers can rotate the wheels and prevent striking of other components, but the upper torque link requires a mechanism to maintain the stowed position
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is designed to be selectively engageable and disengageable. During maintenance operations, the latch can be easily disengaged to allow the upper torque link to be moved out of the stowed position for wheel rotation. After maintenance, the latch is re-engaged to secure the stowed position, providing a simple on-demand solution rather than a permanently complex mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism provides dynamic control of the upper torque link position. It allows the system to transition between two states: stowed position (secured by latch) for normal operation, and raised position (latch disengaged) for maintenance. This dynamic capability enables ease of operation during maintenance while maintaining structural integrity during operation.
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 latch mechanism provides a simple, lightweight, and cost-effective method to stow the upper torque link, facilitating maintenance and operation without increasing the operating envelope of the shock strut, allowing for efficient rotation of landing gear components.
Implementation Method 1
A spring element biases the latch fitting toward the stop fitting
Data Source
AI summary
A torque link assembly for a shock strut includes an upper torque link that is selectively retained in a stowed position when uncoupled from a lower torque link. The upper torque link includes first and second coaxial lugs that rotatably couple the upper torque link to an alignment feature. A latch mechanism includes a latch fitting rotatably coupled to either the upper torque link or the alignment feature. The latch mechanism further includes a stop fitting fixedly coupled to the other of the upper torque link and the alignment feature. The latch fitting engages the stop fitting to maintain the upper torque link in the stowed position. At least one of the latch fitting and stop fitting is positioned between the first and second lugs of the upper torque link.