Vertical Stabilizer Multi-Spar Box Fuselage Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current configurations for connecting vertical stabilizers to aircraft fuselage are difficult to install and complicate in-service inspections due to complex fastening arrangements in confined spaces.
Innovation Solution
A novel configuration featuring a base rib assembly with opposing longitudinal lugs and lateral lugs, along with corresponding clevises and links, that securely attaches the vertical stabilizer to the fuselage through a series of mounting arms and retaining members, simplifying the installation and inspection process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If multiple fittings and fasteners are positioned between the vertical stabilizer and the fuselage, then the connection strength is improved, but the installation difficulty and inspection complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate fittings and fasteners into a single integrated attachment structure. The vertical stabilizer is connected to the fuselage through one unified attachment point that integrates the functions of multiple separate components, thereby maintaining connection strength while significantly simplifying installation and inspection procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural connection, load distribution, and alignment functions all through a single integrated component rather than requiring separate fittings for each function
2Strength
If multiple fittings and fasteners are positioned between the vertical stabilizer and the fuselage, then the connection strength is improved, but the in-service inspection difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating multiple fittings into a single attachment structure, the patent reduces the number of individual components that require inspection. Inspectors can examine one unified structure rather than multiple separate fittings, making defect detection and measurement significantly easier while maintaining the same structural integrity
3Stability of the object's composition
If lateral lugs and standard dual wall clevises are oriented in longitudinal direction and additional lateral lugs are positioned between them, then the structural stability is improved, but the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple longitudinal and lateral lugs with clevises into a single integrated attachment structure. This eliminates the need for separate longitudinal lugs, lateral lugs, and clevises, thereby maintaining structural stability while dramatically reducing the complexity of the attachment configuration
4Ease of operation
If a simplified attachment system with fewer components is used, then the installation ease is improved, but the connection strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated attachment structure combines the load-bearing functions of multiple components into a single design element. By carefully engineering this unified structure, it achieves the necessary connection strength while maintaining installation simplicity, as the single integrated component requires fewer alignment and fastening operations
Data Source
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AI summary
An aircraft has a vertical stabilizer (35) with a multi-spar box (40) and a base rib assembly (100) secured to the multi-spar box (40). The base rib assembly has front longitudinal lugs (130), rear longitudinal lugs (140), and opposing middle longitudinal lugs (150, 155). Front clevises (220) corresponding to the front longitudinal lugs are secured to frame members of the fuselage of the aircraft and each has a first, second, and third mounting arms. Rear clevises (245) corresponding to the rear longitudinal lugs are secured to frame members and each has a first, second, and third mounting arms. Middle clevises (270) corresponding to the middle longitudinal lugs are secured to frame members and each has only first and second mounting arms. Retaining members (70) inserted through mounting holes in each longitudinal lug and mounting holes in each corresponding clevis secures the vertical stabilizer to the fuselage.