Two-Link Latch Assembly for Secure Cowl Door Closure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latch assemblies for securing cowl doors in gas turbine engines are in need of improvement to enhance their functionality and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A latch assembly with a two-link configuration that includes a first latch portion mounted to one cowl door and a second latch portion mounted to another cowl door, featuring a hook, handle, links, and a latch release member, which provides secure engagement and disengagement mechanisms, reducing component count and enhancing structural support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional latch assemblies are used to secure cowl doors, then the doors can be secured during flight, but the number of components increases and structural support is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple latch components into an integrated assembly where a first latch portion and second latch portion work together through a unified mechanism. The handle connects both latch portions through links, merging the operation of multiple components into a single coordinated system that reduces overall complexity while maintaining secure engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly is segmented into distinct functional portions: a first latch portion with a keeper, a second latch portion with a hook, and connecting links. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while the overall assembly maintains simplicity through modular design.
2Reliability
If traditional latch assemblies are used to secure cowl doors, then the doors can be secured during flight, but the structural support is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the first latch portion and second latch portion into a unified engagement system where the keeper and hook work together through connected links. This combined structure distributes and shares the load between multiple engagement points, thereby enhancing overall structural support and strength while maintaining reliable door securing.
3Device complexity
If a two-link configuration is used in the latch assembly, then the number of components is reduced and complexity is minimized, but the mechanism for engagement and disengagement must be highly efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly employs dynamic links that can rotate and pivot to facilitate smooth engagement and disengagement. The links connect the handle to both latch portions, allowing mechanical movement and adjustment during operation. This dynamic design enables easy operation with fewer components by utilizing rotational freedom and mechanical advantage.
Solution Approach 2:
The links serve as intermediary elements between the handle and the latch portions, mediating the transfer of force and motion. These intermediate components enable the handle to control both latch portions efficiently, simplifying the overall mechanism while maintaining ease of operation through force distribution and motion transformation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A latch (48) includes a handle (64), a hook (66), a first link (68), and a second link (70). The hook (66) is rotatably mounted to the handle (64) at a first rotational axis (116). The hook (66) includes a hook body (108). The hook body (108) includes a first lateral portion (110) and a second lateral portion (112). The first lateral portion (110) is laterally spaced from the second lateral portion (112). The first link (68) is laterally between the first lateral portion (110) and the second lateral portion (112). The first link (68) is rotatably mounted to the first lateral portion (110) and the second lateral portion (112) at the first rotational axis (116). The second link (70) is laterally between the first lateral portion (110) and the second lateral portion (112). The second link (70) is rotatably mounted to the first link (68) at a second rotational axis (172). The second link (70) is configured for translation relative to the first lateral portion (110) and the second lateral portion (112).