V-Blade Fitting Ducted Fan Case Attachment

Solution Overview

Problem

Ducted fan engines pose challenges in efficient retention within vehicle frames due to substantial loads and torque, and access for maintenance is hindered by complex and time-consuming disassembly procedures.

Innovation Solution

The method involves using V-blade fittings and V-groove structures for secure attachment of ducted fan engines within a ducted fan case, allowing 180-degree extension and secure fastening to frames, facilitating efficient assembly and disassembly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a complex attachment structure is used to secure the ducted fan engine, then the engine can be retained under substantial loads and torque, but the disassembly procedure becomes time-consuming and expensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The attachment structure is divided into modular components including V-blade fittings, V-groove structures, and quick-release fasteners. This segmentation allows the engine to be securely retained during operation while enabling rapid disassembly by simply releasing the fasteners without complex procedures

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment structure transitions from a static complex assembly to a dynamic system with quick-release capabilities. The V-blade fittings engage with V-grooves to provide secure retention under load, while integrated fasteners allow rapid release when maintenance is needed, changing the state from permanently fixed to easily removable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Ease of operation

If a simple attachment structure is used, then disassembly is quick and easy, but the structure cannot withstand substantial loads and torque

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The design merges two functions into a single integrated attachment structure: the V-blade fittings provide both secure mechanical retention under substantial loads and torque during operation, and the integrated fasteners enable quick release for maintenance. This combination achieves both strength and ease of operation simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The V-blade and V-groove interface acts as an intermediary mechanism that distributes and manages substantial loads and torque while the quick-release fasteners provide a simple operational interface. The intermediary structure handles the complex load-bearing function while the fasteners provide simple user interaction

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11613372B2Ducted fan case attachment structure
Publication Date: 2023.03.28
  • US11613372B2 patent drawing
  • US11613372B2 patent drawing
  • US11613372B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A ducted fan engine module and method of assembling the same is disclosed. In various embodiments, the ducted fan engine module includes a ducted fan engine having a ducted fan case configured to house a fan; a lower V-blade fitting secured to a lower frame; and an upper V-blade fitting secured to an upper frame.