Wing Tension Joint Assembly for Fast Access and Precise Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing wing assembly construction methods require time-consuming processes to achieve precise aerodynamic shape, involving shims and fettling, which complicates manufacturing and maintenance, and necessitates partial disassembly for access, increasing effort and time.
Innovation Solution
A modular edge system with a tension joint, comprising a main structure and a pivotally mounted modular edge, using a tension bolt to resist pivotal rotation, allowing for standardized manufacturing, efficient assembly, and easy maintenance by rotating the modular edge between operational and installation positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional wing assembly methods with fixed leading and trailing edge structures are used, then manufacturing precision can be maintained, but manufacturing time increases due to shims and fettling processes
Solution Approach 1:
The leading edge structure is made dynamically adjustable through a rotatable attachment mechanism. The leading edge can be rotated between an operational position (aligned with the wing) and an installation position (perpendicular to the wing), allowing for dynamic adjustment during assembly to accommodate tolerance gaps without requiring shims or fettling processes
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment mechanism allows change in the geometric parameters of the leading edge position and orientation. By rotating the leading edge around a pivot point, the position parameters can be adjusted to achieve precise aerodynamic shape while simplifying the assembly process and increasing manufacturing productivity
2Reliability
If traditional wing assembly methods are used, then structural integrity can be maintained, but maintenance complexity increases due to partial disassembly requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable attachment mechanism enables the leading edge to be easily rotated to the installation position for maintenance access, then back to the operational position. This dynamic capability allows maintenance personnel to access internal wing elements without complex disassembly procedures while maintaining structural integrity during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The leading edge is designed as a separate modular component that can be independently accessed and maintained. The modular design with a distinct attachment mechanism allows the leading edge to be serviced separately from the main wing structure, improving maintenance accessibility while preserving overall structural integrity
3Ease of manufacture
If modular edge with pivotal mounting is used, then ease of assembly improves, but device complexity increases due to additional mounting mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The pivotal mounting mechanism provides a simple rotational degree of freedom that enables easy assembly and adjustment of the modular edge. The single pivot point and associated tension bolt create a straightforward mounting mechanism that improves assembly efficiency without introducing excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The modular edge is pre-assembled as a complete sub-assembly with the tension bolt mechanism before attachment to the main wing structure. This preliminary assembly simplifies the final installation process, as the entire modular edge can be attached in one operation rather than assembling multiple individual components
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
This solution enhances manufacturing efficiency, reduces the number of fasteners, facilitates quicker assembly, and simplifies maintenance by providing mechanical reliability and access to the wing's interior without significant disassembly.
Implementation Method 1
tension in a tension bolt received in the first and second recesses acts to press the first and second contact faces together, thereby forming a tension joint that resists pivoting of the modular edge relative to the main structure
Data Source
AI summary
A wing assembly is disclosed. The wing assembly includes a main structure having a first contact face and a first recess arranged to receive a portion of a tension bolt; and a modular edge having a second contact face and a second recess arranged to receive a portion of the tension bolt. The modular edge is pivotally mounted on the main structure for rotation between an installation position and an operational position in which the modular edge is aligned with the main structure to form at least part of an edge of the wing assembly. The wing assembly is arranged such that, when the modular edge is in the operational position, tension in a tension bolt received in the first and second recesses acts to press the first and second contact faces together, thereby forming a tension joint that resists pivoting of the modular edge relative to the main structure.