Universal Holding Apparatus for Large Shell Structures
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current holding apparatuses for large shell structures are not universal, are heavy and expensive, and require significant movement and space for inspection and storage, limiting their versatility and efficiency in the aerospace industry.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, cost-effective holding apparatus with a base and edge support system that includes movable stanchions and wheels, allowing for adjustable positioning and easy transportation of large shell structures, enabling optimal orientations for inspection without the need for additional support structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If framed apparatus designs are used to hold large shell structures, then the structures can be held in proper orientations for inspection, but the apparatus becomes extremely heavy and difficult to move
Solution Approach 1:
The holding apparatus is divided into separate functional components: a base unit and a support assembly that can be detached. The support assembly includes a vertical support and horizontal supports that can be independently positioned and secured to the shell structure, eliminating the need for a single heavy framed structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus transitions from a static framed structure to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The support assembly can be moved, repositioned, and reconfigured to accommodate different shell structures and inspection requirements, with the vertical support being movable along the base and horizontal supports being adjustable in position.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized apparatuses are built for different parts, then each part can be held in optimal orientation, but the cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The holding apparatus is designed as a universal system that can accommodate various types of shell structures (aircraft fuselages, wings, empennages, etc.) through a standardized base unit and adjustable support assembly. The same apparatus can be reconfigured for different parts without requiring specialized dedicated equipment for each component type.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus uses adjustable parameters including the position of the vertical support along the base, the angle and position of horizontal supports, and the height adjustments to adapt to different shell structures. These parameter changes allow a single apparatus design to serve multiple functions across different aerospace components.
3Device complexity
If base-only apparatuses are used where parts sit on a base, then the structure is simple, but the parts cannot be held in proper orientations for inspection
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into a base unit and separate support elements (vertical support and horizontal supports) that can be independently positioned. This segmentation allows the simple base to be enhanced with adjustable support components that provide proper orientation and inspection accessibility without requiring a complex pre-integrated structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus evolves from a static base-only design to a dynamic configuration where support elements can be moved and adjusted. The vertical support can be repositioned along the base, and horizontal supports can be adjusted in angle and position, enabling the simple base to achieve complex positioning capabilities when needed.
4Stability of the object's composition
If framed structures are built stiff enough to hold airplane parts, then the holding stability is sufficient, but the cost of construction becomes extremely expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into a simple base unit and separate support assemblies that only need to be sufficiently stiff for their specific functions, not the entire structure. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured more economically while maintaining overall stability through the coordinated arrangement of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus combines a simple, inexpensive base unit with adjustable support elements that provide the necessary stiffness and stability. Rather than making the entire structure heavily stiffened, the stability is achieved by merging the base with properly positioned and supported elements that work together to hold the aerospace structures securely.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for holding an aerospace structure, having an edge and a surface, includes a base. Coupled to the base is an edge support adapted to releasably engage the edge of the structure. Also coupled to the base is a stanchion. Moveably coupled to the stanchion is a surface support adapted to support the surface of the structure when the edge of the structure is retained by the edge support.