Shape Memory Alloy Spacer System

A method for aligning and joining a first structure to a second structure in an aircraft is provided. A spacer system having a shape memory alloy is positioned in a gap between the first structure and the second structure. The shape memory alloy is initially in a cooled state. A temperature of the s...

Ausführliche Beschreibung

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Bibliographische Detailangaben
Hauptverfasser: Calkins, Frederick Theodore, Ruhmann, Donald William, Whalen, Edward Andrew, Mabe, James Henry, Kirchmeier, Stephen K
Format: Patent
Sprache:eng
Schlagworte:
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Beschreibung
Zusammenfassung:A method for aligning and joining a first structure to a second structure in an aircraft is provided. A spacer system having a shape memory alloy is positioned in a gap between the first structure and the second structure. The shape memory alloy is initially in a cooled state. A temperature of the shape memory alloy is increased such that the shape memory alloy changes from the cooled shape to a heated shape to fill the gap and apply a load to hold the first structure in place relative to the second structure. Additional processes may then be performed to join the first structure to the second structure.