Aircraft compression relief rod

US10589832B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The Boeing Company · US

Inventors

• Chathura B. Nandalochana · Everett, US
• Mark E. Wentland · Lynnwood, US
• Joel A. Bruhns · Seattle, US
• James W. Hoskinson · Arlington, US
• Brendon T. Rippe · Everett, US
• Curtis Wen · Seattle, US
• Mona T. Tafesh · Maple Valley, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 24, 2019
• Grant date: Mar 17, 2020
• Expiry date: Jun 24, 2039

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64D11/04
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A tension-only member for a truss structure and a method of operating a vehicle with tension-only members is provided. Tension-only members readily deform when a compressive load is applied. The tension-only members may be a leaf spring, a strap, a cable, or a rope between two connector ends. The tension-only members are placed diagonally in a truss such that the tension-only members support a load applied in one direction but deflect when a load is applied in an opposite direction. A truss structure with such tension-only members can be flexible to enable a vehicle frame to which it is attached to flex.