Aircraft Wing Seal Positioning Using Reference Hole Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Applying seals to aircraft wing components is time-consuming and difficult, especially after assembly, due to spatial constraints and the need for interior access, which can lead to damage and prolonged assembly times.
Innovation Solution
A tool and method using positional referencing pins and setting parts to align sealing members based on pre-defined hole relationships in aircraft wing components, allowing pre-assembly application of seals and ensuring a fluid-tight fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If seals are applied after components are fitted together, then the seal position can be accurately determined relative to assembled components, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and difficult due to interior access requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The tool enables seal positioning to be performed before final component assembly by using reference holes and positioning features that can be accessed and utilized in the pre-assembly state. The position referencing part engages with reference holes in components to establish accurate seal positions in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming interior access operations after assembly.
2Measurement precision
If seals are applied after component assembly, then the sealing member can be positioned relative to finished assembly, but the complexity and difficulty of the operation increases due to interior access requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning tool allows seal positioning operations to be conducted before final assembly, when components are more accessible. The reference holes and positioning features are utilized in the pre-assembly state to establish accurate seal positions, making the operation easier to perform without requiring difficult interior access.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool introduces intermediary reference holes and positioning features that mediate between the seal application process and the assembled components. These reference features provide accessible intermediaries for positioning, eliminating the need for direct interior access to positioned seals.
3Measurement precision
If interior access is required to apply seals, then accurate seal positioning can be achieved, but the risk of damage to components and workers increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tool enables seal positioning to be performed before final component assembly, when interior spaces are more accessible and less constrained. This preliminary positioning reduces the risk of damage to both components and workers by avoiding the need for difficult interior access operations after assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool and method for positioning a sealing member in an aircraft wing assembly by using first and second holes in a first component of the aircraft wing assembly and first and second holes in a second component of the aircraft wing assembly as positioning reference points, wherein a positional relationship of the first and second holes in the first component matches a positional relationship of the first and second holes in the second component.