Pressure equalization systems
US5118053A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 27, 1989 |
| Grant date | Jun 2, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 27, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64C2001/009
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system for preventing the sudden depressurization of a compartment in an aircraft from causing structural damage or damage to other critical aircraft components. The system includes a pivotable closure. Normally, this closure is latched across a passage between a pressurized compartment such as a passenger cabin and a dump such as the space between the cabin wall and the outer skin of the aircraft. In the event that pressure is suddenly lost in a second pressurized compartment such as a cargo hold beneath the floor of the passenger compartment, a pressure differential is created across a flap-type latch actuator carried by the closure. This rotates the actuator, disengaging an actuator-associated latch element from a fixedly mounted keeper and thereby allowing the closure to be swung to an open position by outrushing air. This makes the entire area of the passage to the dump available for the outflow of air. As a consequence, the pressure between the two compartments is rapidly equalized, keeping the floor of the passenger compartment from collapsing and preventing damage to critical aircraft components routed beneath the floor or through the aircraft body such as control cables,…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.