Wing-Strut Splice Strap Coupling for Engine Ground Clearance

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems face challenges in securing engines to aircraft wings while maintaining desired ground clearance and ensuring efficient aerodynamic performance.

Innovation Solution

A coupling system that integrates splice straps with the wing and struts, aligning them with the wing's spars and ribs, and uses fairings to cover the straps, providing a secure and fail-safe interface that maintains engine alignment above or below the wing, thus ensuring increased ground clearance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If a larger engine is used to meet performance objectives, then engine power is improved, but ground clearance is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveengine powerVSAvoidground clearance

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSLength of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent repositions the engine from a conventional under-wing location to an over-wing location, utilizing the vertical dimension above the wing. This dimensional change allows larger engines to be installed while maintaining adequate ground clearance, as the engine is positioned above the wing rather than below it.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent inverts the conventional engine mounting arrangement by placing the engine above the wing instead of below it. This inversion resolves the conflict between engine size and ground clearance, allowing larger engines to be used without reducing ground clearance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Reliability

If separate fittings and mounting assemblies are used to secure the engine, then attachment reliability is improved, but device complexity is increased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveattachment reliabilityVSAvoidmounting assembly complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the engine mounting function directly into the wing structure itself, eliminating the need for separate fittings and mounting assemblies. The wing is designed with integrated attachment features that securely mount the engine while reducing structural complexity and eliminating redundant components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The wing structure is designed to serve multiple functions: it provides aerodynamic lift, structural support, and direct engine mounting capability. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated mounting fittings, as the wing itself performs the attachment function.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4365083B1Systems and methods for coupling a strut to a wing of an aircraft

Publication Date: 2025.12.31 THE BOEING CO

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AI summary

A coupling system (110) is configured to secure one or more struts (108) to a wing (102) of an aircraft (100). The coupling system (110) includes one or more splice straps (140, 150) that secure the one or more struts (108) to the wing (102). A method for securing one or more struts (108) to a wing (102) of an aircraft (100) includes securing, by one or more splice straps (140, 150), the one or more struts (108) to the wing (102).