Aircraft Wing Box Connector with Flexible Seals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft designs connecting the center wing box to the fuselage with rigid structures lead to high loads, premature fatigue cracking, and increased weight, complicating maintenance due to difficult access and high costs.
Innovation Solution
A connector system comprising flexible seals and stiffener arms that allow relative movement between the center wing box and bulkhead, reducing structural interference and enabling efficient assembly, while using lightweight materials to mitigate stress and fatigue.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If rigid structures are used to connect the center wing box to the fuselage, then structural strength is improved, but weight increases and fatigue cracking occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing rigid connections with flexible seals that allow relative movement between the center wing box and fuselage. The flexible seal accommodates differential displacement and deformation under load, enabling the structure to adapt dynamically to stress conditions while using lighter materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of connection rigidity from rigid to flexible. By using flexible seal material with appropriate elastic properties, the connection can deform elastically under load, redistributing stresses and reducing the need for heavy reinforcement while maintaining structural integrity.
2Strength
If rigid structures are used to connect the center wing box to the fuselage, then structural strength is improved, but premature fatigue cracking occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible seal provides dynamic adaptation to cyclic loading conditions by allowing controlled relative movement between connected structures. This flexibility prevents stress concentration and fatigue crack initiation that occurs in rigid connections subjected to repeated aerodynamic and gravitational loads.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the connection from rigid to flexible, the patent alters the stress distribution pattern under cyclic loading. The flexible seal distributes stresses more evenly through elastic deformation, preventing the premature fatigue cracking observed in rigid titanium forging connections.
3Strength
If additional structural elements are added to accommodate forces, then structural strength is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the need for additional complex structural elements by using a flexible seal that inherently accommodates forces through material flexibility. This eliminates the requirement for extra titanium forgings, underwing longerons, and associated complex assembly components.
Solution Approach 2:
By changing the connection parameter from rigid to flexible, the patent simplifies the overall structure. The flexible seal's elastic properties allow it to accommodate differential movement and forces without requiring additional structural elements, reducing both complexity and maintenance requirements.
4Strength
If rigid structures are used for connection, then structural strength is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible seal functions as a replaceable component with a designed service life. When fatigue or damage occurs, the seal can be replaced as a discrete part without requiring complex disassembly of rigid structural elements, improving ease of repair and reducing aircraft downtime.
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 connector system effectively reduces stress on the aircraft structure, facilitates easier assembly, and minimizes maintenance challenges by allowing relative movement and using lightweight materials, thus enhancing efficiency and reducing operational downtime.
Implementation Method 1
A first flexible seal extends across the panel and provides for relative movement between the first edge and the central section. A second flexible seal extends across the panel and provides for relative movement between the second edge and the central section.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector to connect a center wing box to a bulkhead of an aircraft. The connector includes a panel with a first edge positioned at the center wing box, an opposing second edge positioned at the bulkhead, and a central section. A first flexible seal extends across the panel and provides for relative movement between the first edge and the central section. A second flexible seal extends across the panel and provides for relative movement between the second edge and the central section.