GB2573180A - Eccentric mechanical connector - Google Patents

Abstract

A mechanical connector 100 has a first connector formation 102 having a first eyelet and a second connector formation 104a, 104b having a second eyelet. An eccentric bush 110, 130 is rotatably received in the first eyelet and a clamping bush 150a, 150b is rotatably received in the second eyelet. A shaft 170 extends through the bushes110, 130, 150a, 150b. The eccentric bush 110, 130 and the clamping bush 150a, 150b are rotationally coupled to one another at an interface region located between the first connector formation and the second connector formation, to facilitate adjustment by turning the clamping bush 150a, 150b. Also disclosed is a connector having dual eccentric bushes and a clevis connector incorporating the mechanical connector.

Description

ECCENTRIC MECHANICAL CONNECTOR

Field of the Invention

The invention relates to the field of mechanical connectors, for example between structural components of aircraft.

Background to the Invention

Adjustable connectors between structural components may be required in industry in order to accommodate dimensional variations which are inevitably present within manufacturing tolerances.

During assembly of mechanical and structural components, it may be required to adjust mechanical connectors, so as to take up slack which is present, to accommodate tolerances, or to achieve precise alignment between fixed or moving parts. Components comprising composite material in particular re prone to comparatively large tolerances, due to dimensional changes which occur for example during curing.

Mechanical connectors commonly comprise a shaft or pin, extending through eyelets in the respective components. This arrangement is found for example between parts in hinged relationship, clevis couplings and the like.

Such adjustable mechanical connectors may include an eyelet associated with one of the mechanical/structural components that has a larger diameter than is required to accommodate the shaft. Adjustment may be provided by way of an eccentric bushing, having an outer diameter sized to fit within the eyelet and a smaller diameter bore sized to fit around the shaft, which is axially offset. The position of the axis of the bore can be adjusted by rotating the eccentric bushing within an eyelet, thereby adjusting the position that the shaft and thus also the other component. Alternatively, once parts have been positioned, adjustment of an eccentric bushing may bring bores through the connector into alignment so as to permit a shaft to be installed.

Adjustment to accommodate manufacturing tolerances must be made in-situ, and iterative adjustments may be required. Where access to a coupling is physically restricted, this may in turn necessitate repeated at least partial assembly and disassembly of the connector.

For large components in particular, this can be problematic and time consuming. Repeated repositioning of large components can present practical difficulties and danger to personnel, and increases the risk that the components may collide and be damaged.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a mechanical connector comprising: a first connector formation having a first eyelet and a second connector formation having a second eyelet; an eccentric bush rotatably received in the first eyelet and rotatable within the first eyelet around a first axis, and having an offset bore with an offset axis parallel to and laterally offset from the first axis; a clamping bush rotatably received in the second eyelet and rotatable within the second eyelet around a second axis, and having a central bore along the second axis; wherein the second axis and the offset axis are aligned with a shaft, extending through the offset bore and the central bore; and wherein the eccentric bush and the clamping bush are rotationally coupled or couplable to one another at an interface region located between the first connector formation and the second connector formation.

The first and second connector formations are in use connected to or form part of respective first and second structures.

Rotation of the clamping bush drives rotation of eccentric bush, and so adjustment of the mechanical connector to adjust the relative positions of the first and second connector formations, or the relative positions of the offset axis and the second axis to allow assembly of the connector to be completed, can be made by rotating the clamping bush. Where access to one of the eyelets is restricted, the mechanical connector can be configured such that the second eyelet is more accessible than the first eyelet. Thus, the mechanical connector facilitates adjustment via the more accessible eyelet of the positions of first and second structures in relation to one another.

The eccentric bush and the clamping bush may be rotationally coupled or couplable in relation to rotation in one or both directions of rotations.

The eccentric bush and the clamping bush may be rotationally couplable/decouplable by moving the clamping bush axially in relation to the eccentric bush. This facilitates assembly by bringing the first connecting formation (with the eccentric bush in the first eyelet) into proximity with the second connecting formation (with the clamping bush in the second eyelet), and the eccentric and clamping bushes subsequently coupled to one another.

This coupling may be achieved by moving the first and second connector formations towards one another and/or by sliding one of the said bushes, the clamping bush in particular, in relation to a corresponding eyelet.

In some embodiments, the clamping bush (and/or the eccentric bush) be axially longer than the respective eyelet.

It may also be required for the eccentric bush and the clamping bush to be to some degree rotationally aligned, for the bushes to be rotationally coupled together.

The eccentric bush and the clamping bush may be rotationally couplable together in multiple relative rotational orientations, for example two, or three or more orientations.

The eccentric bush and the clamping bush may be configured to be rotationally couplable to one another within an axial tolerance.

The axial tolerance may be equal to or greater than the lateral offset between the first axis and the offset axis.

By axial tolerance we refer to a distance between first and second axes (or the respective bush axes), normal to the axes when they are substantially parallel.

The eccentric bush and the clamping bush may be configured to be rotationally couplable to one another within a rotational tolerance.

By rotational tolerance we refer to the range or relative orientations within which the bushes can be brought together such that they will be rotationally coupled upon further rotation. In some embodiments, within at least some of the range of a rotational tolerance, the clamping bush or the eccentric bush may be rotated without rotating the other of the bushes, but that upon sufficient rotation the bushes will operatively engage and become rotationally coupled.

The eccentric bush may comprise a first coupling formation, and the clamping bush may comprise a second coupling formation, wherein the first and second coupling formations engage at the interface region, and rotationally couple the eccentric bush and clamping bush together.

The eccentric bush and/or the clamping bush comprise more than one said coupling formation.

More than one first and/or second coupling formation may for example be distributed around (typically at regular intervals) the respective first and second axes. For example, two first or second coupling formations may be positioned 180 degrees apart. Three first or second coupling formation may be at 120 degree intervals and so forth.

First and/or second coupling formations may for example comprise a spline fitting, wherein one of the coupling formations comprises a series of opposed ramps, configured to engage with one or more teeth or recesses, or an opposed series of ramps of the other of the coupling formations.

One said coupling formation may comprise a pin or projection and the other said coupling formation may comprise a recess, hole or channel for receiving the pin or projection. Multiple pins and corresponding recesses, holes or channels may be distributed around the respective first and second axes.

Axial tolerance may be provided by first and/or second coupling formations having engaging surfaces (e.g. of a ramp, channel, recess or protrusion) which extend a distance away from an axis.

Axial tolerance may be provided by a first coupling formation that is radially longer than a corresponding second coupling formation, or vice versa. By radial length, we refer to a difference between the distance away from a respective axis of the part of a formation closest to the first axis and the part furthest from the first axis.

For example, a first coupling formation may comprise a channel or recess, and the radial length thereof may exceed the radial length of a corresponding pin or protrusion of a second coupling formation.

Rotational tolerance may be provided, for example, by the circumferential length (i.e. how far a formation extends around a respective axis) of a ramp. Rotational tolerance may be provided by way of a channel or recess of a first or a second coupling formation that is circumferentially longer than a pin or projection of a second or a first coupling formation, respectively.

For example, a recess may have a circumferential and radial length each at least equal to the lateral offset of the offset bore.

Rotational tolerance may be provided by a circumferential distance between adjacent first and/or second coupling formations.

Rotational coupling between the eccentric bush and the clamping bush may be achieved by frictional engagement therebetween. The bushes may have abutting surfaces, one or both of which may be roughened, for example.

The eccentric bush may comprise a first end flange. The first end flange may comprise the or each first coupling formation.

The clamping bush may comprise a second end flange, the second end flange comprising the or each second coupling formation.

The eccentric bush and clamping bush may be rotationally coupled by abutting the end flanges, thereby bringing the/each first and second coupling formation into engagement.

The increased dimensions of the flanges may provide for increased axial and/or rotational tolerance.

The first and/or second flanges may have a diameter greater than the respective first and second eyelet. This may in addition limit the axial motion of the bushes and thus assist during assembly.

Whilst splines and pins/recesses and the like are described herein, other suitable coupling formations may be conceived by the skilled addressee within the scope of the present disclosure.

The clamping bush may comprise a keyed formation.

The keyed formation may facilitate rotation of the clamping bush within the second eyelet, optionally with use of a tool (such as a hand tool).

The keyed formation may be within the central bore, and may for example comprise a recess in or channel along the bore.

One or more external surfaces of the clamping bush may comprise or together form a keyed formation. The keyed formation may for example be a polygonal (e.g. hexagonal) portion of the outside of the clamping bush, to engage with a wrench, or parallel surfaces to engage with a cone wrench, or the like.

The keyed formation may extend an axial distance away from the second connector formation, for ease of access, for example when a shaft is located in the central bore. For example the keyed formation may be located at or near the opposite end of the clamping bush from the interface region.

In some embodiments, the clamping bush has at/near one end thereof end one or more second coupling formations and optionally a flange and, at/near the other end thereof a keyed formation.

Each eyelet has an eyelet axis and, typically, the first eyelet axis is aligned with the first axis; and the second eyelet axis is aligned with the second axis.

In some embodiments, however, the first and/or second axes may be adjustable, by adjusting the orientation of one or both of the bushes within their respective eyelets. Such adjustment may facilitate a degree of adjustability in any orientation, between the first connector formation and the second connector formation.

For example, the connector may comprise a ball joint associated with the first and/or second eyelet. A part spherical member may be disposed around the eccentric bush and/or the clamping bush. Alternatively an outer surface of the eccentric bush and/or the clamping bush may be part spherical.

The first eyelet and/or the second eyelet may be associated with a cooperating part spherical concave surface, within which the part spherical surface of or around the bush can be slideably received.

The eccentric bush may have a larger outer diameter than the clamping bush, for example to accommodate the lateral offset between the first axis and the offset axis. The first eyelet may have a diameter that is greater than a diameter of the second eyelet, for example, to accommodate a wider diameter eccentric bush.

Each eyelet may be optimally sized to receive the shaft, the clamping bush or eccentric bush as the case may be, and any additional components such as bearings, additional conventional bushes or the like, as may be concentrically disposed between the eyelet and the shaft. One or more of the eyelets may be sized in addition to accommodate a ball joint as disclosed herein.

The shaft, or pin, may be generally cylindrical. The shaft may be provided with one or more further features, such as: a keyed formation (e.g. a bolt head); a threaded portion (e.g. to receive a nut), typically at an end of the shaft or a portion otherwise adapted to secure the shaft (such as a recess or aperture for a retaining pin or clip); a tapered end portion, to facilitate alignment of the central and offset bores during installation.

The shaft may be adapted for fixing the first and second connector formations in fixed relation to one another.

The shaft may be adapted for fixing the first and second connector formations in hinged relation to one another. For example, the shaft may be provided with one or more bearing surfaces (e.g. hardened) or one or more bearing seats (e.g. with corresponding annular lips to locate a bearing race).

The shaft may have regions of different diameter along its length, for example where an offset bore has a smaller diameter than a central bore.

The mechanical connector may comprise more than one eccentric bush and more than one clamping bush.

The connector may comprise: an outer eccentric bush rotatably received in the first eyelet and rotatable within the first eyelet around a first axis, and having an outer offset bore with an outer offset axis parallel to and laterally offset from the first axis; an inner eccentric bush rotatable within the outer offset bore around the outer offset axis, and having an inner offset bore with an inner offset axis parallel to and laterally offset from the outer offset axis; an outer clamping bush rotatably received in the second eyelet and rotatable within the second eyelet around a second axis, and having a central bore along the second axis; an inner clamping bush rotatably received in the central bore and rotatable within the central bore around the second axis, and having an inner bore along the second axis; wherein the second axis and the inner offset axis are aligned with a shaft extending through the inner offset bore and the inner bore; and wherein the outer eccentric bush and the outer clamping bush are rotationally coupled or couplable to one another at an outer interface region located between the first connector formation and the second connector formation; and wherein the inner eccentric bush and the inner clamping bush are rotationally coupled or couplable to one another at an inner interface region located between the first and second connector formations.

Further optional features of each of the inner and outer eccentric and clamping bushes are as disclosed above.

Provision of an inner and an outer eccentric bush allows adjustment of the inner offset axis within an annular or circular area defined by the two lateral offsets, as the eccentric bushes are rotated around their axes.

The lateral offset of the inner offset bore from the outer offset bore may be the same or different from the lateral offset of the outer offset bore from the first axis. Most typically, the inner lateral offset is at least as large as the outer lateral offset, so as to enable the inner offset axis to be anywhere within an area defined by the path of the outer offset axis as the outer eccentric bush is rotated around the first axis.

The inner and outer interface regions may be generally concentric in relation to one another.

Conveniently, the inner clamping bush is longer than the outer clamping bush, for example to provide access to both an inner keyed formation and an outer keyed formation formed on outer surfaces of the respective clamping bushes.

The mechanical connector may comprise more than one second connector formation and associated second eyelet. The first eyelet may be disposed between two second eyelets, with a proximal second eyelet to one side and a distal second eyelet on the other side of the first eyelet.

For example, the mechanical coupling may be in the form of a clevis joint or connector.

The terms proximal and distal are used herein to describe the orientation in relation to the direction of installation of the shaft. However, it is to be understood that the shaft may in may embodiments be oriented in either direction.

Adjustment of mechanical couplings of this type, in particular of clevis joints or connectors, is conventionally of particular difficulty since access to both sides of the first eyelet is hindered or prevented by the adjacent second eyelets.

The mechanical connector may comprise: a first connector formation having a first eyelet; a proximal second connector formation having a proximal second eyelet; and a distal second connector formation having a distal second eyelet coaxial with the proximal second eyelet.

The mechanical connector may further comprise: an outer eccentric bush rotatably received in the first eyelet and rotatable within the first eyelet around a first axis, and having an outer offset bore with an outer offset axis parallel to and laterally offset from the first axis; an inner eccentric bush rotatable within the outer offset bore around the outer offset axis, and having an inner offset bore with an inner offset axis parallel to and laterally offset from the outer offset axis; an outer clamping bush rotatably received in the distal second eyelet and rotatable therein around a second axis, and having a central bore along the second axis; an inner clamping bush rotatably received in the proximal second eyelet and rotatable therein around the second axis, and having an inner bore along the second axis; wherein the second axis and the inner offset axis are aligned with a shaft extending through the inner offset bore and the inner bore; and wherein the outer eccentric bush and the outer clamping bush are rotationally coupled or couplable to one another at an outer interface region located between the first connector formation and the distal second connector formation; and wherein the inner eccentric bush and the inner clamping bush are rotationally coupled or couplable to one another at an inner interface region located between the first connector formation and the proximal second connector formation.

One or more eyelets may have an open slot, extending through the first/second connector formation. Threadable fixings or other means may be provided to urge the edges of the slot together, and apply radial force to at least in part fix the positions of the first and second connector formations, once adjustment is complete.

The first connector formation is connected to or forms part of a first structure. The or each second connector formation is connected to or forms part of a second structure. It will be appreciated that the mechanical connectors of the present invention may be used to connect very large structures, and that multiple mechanical connectors may be required to connect them together.

The first and/or second structure may comprise composite materials, such as carbon fibre composite.

The first and/or second connector formations may be formed from composite materials.

The first and/or second connector formations may be moulded in to a composite material or structure.

The first and/or second structure may be an aircraft component. For example one said structure may be wing body structure and the other said structure may be a leading edge structure or a moveable aerodynamic control structure.

Each structure may comprise an aerodynamic surface, such as a portion of the skin of an aircraft wing. The mechanical connector or connectors accordingly may facilitate precise alignment of aerodynamic surfaces, for example to eliminate panel gaps.

In some embodiments, multiple mechanical connectors are required around the periphery of regions of first and second structures to be connected. For example, to connect a wing leading edge structure to a wing main body structure, an array of upper and lower points of connection may be required along the length of the wing, wherein the upper and/or lower points of connection may comprise or consist of a mechanical connector in accordance with the first aspect.

Thus, the invention extends in a second aspect to an aircraft wing structure comprising a main body structure and a leading edge structure, and at least one mechanical connector in accordance with the first aspect connecting the main body structure and the leading edge structure. That is to say, the main body structure may comprise at least one first or second connector formation and the leading edge structure may comprise at least one complimentary second connector formation, which may be assembled to form connectors as disclosed herein.

In a third aspect of the invention there is provided a method of adjusting a mechanical connection between a first connector formation having a first eyelet and a second connector formation having a second eyelet; wherein an eccentric bush is rotatably received in the first eyelet and rotatable within the first eyelet around a first axis, and has an offset bore with an offset axis parallel to and laterally offset from the first axis; and wherein a clamping bush is rotatably received in the second eyelet and is rotatable within the second eyelet around a second axis, and has a central bore along the second axis; the method comprising: providing a shaft through the offset bore and the central bore, wherein the second axis and the offset axis are aligned; rotationally coupling the eccentric bush and the clamping bush to one another; and rotating the clamping bush to thereby rotate the eccentric bush.

The method may comprise rotationally coupling the clamping bush and the eccentric bush and rotating the clamping bush to thereby rotate the eccentric bush, so as to adjust the position of the offset axis in relation to the second axis, and then providing the shaft through the offset bore and the central bore.

For example, the method may comprise bringing the central bore and offset bore into approximate alignment before, or during threading the shaft. A tapered end portion of the shaft may facilitate this process.

Alternatively, or in addition, the method may comprise providing the shaft through the offset bore and the central bore and rotating the clamping bush to thereby rotate the eccentric bush, to adjust the position of the first axis in relation to the second axis.

For example, where large first and second structures are involved, it may be desirable to bring them together, and align said bores so as to enable the assembly of the mechanical coupling to be completed (or at least the shaft installed), and any required further adjustment then made.

This process may be facilitated by the axial tolerance within which rotational coupling is possible, discussed above.

The eccentric bush and the clamping bush may be rotationally coupled before, or after the provision of the shaft.

The eccentric bush and clamping bush may be rotationally coupled at an interface region located between the first connector formation and the second connector formation.

The eccentric bush and clamping bush may be rotationally coupled by axially moving the clamping bush towards the eccentric bush and/or by rotating the clamping bush in relation to the eccentric bush.

Providing the shaft may comprise bringing the first connecting formation into proximity with the second connecting formation and threading the shaft through the central bore and the offset bore (or vice versa).

Rotating the clamping bush may be conducted manually, e.g. using a hand tool. A torque may be applied to the clamping bush at a keyed formation, for example of an outer surface of the clamping bush.

The method may comprise providing a mechanical coupling in accordance with the first aspect.

The method may comprise tightening the mechanical coupling, after assembly or after adjustment is complete. For example, it may be desirable to reduce any mechanical play, and/or fix the position of the first and second formations in relation to one another. The mechanical coupling may be tightened by applying an axial force between the ends of the shaft, for example by threading a bolt on the end of the shaft. The mechanical coupling may be tightened alternatively or in addition by tightening the first and/or second eyelet, for example by narrowing an open slot therein, as described above.

The method may comprise adjusting a panel gap, for example between aircraft structures each having aerodynamic surfaces. The method may comprise adjusting the orientation of a panel, in relation for example to an adjacent panel.

The method may comprise inserting the eccentric bush into the first eyelet. The method may comprise inserting the clamping bush into the second eyelet.

The assembly steps may be conducted in various sequences. For example, the bushes may be located in the eyelets prior to bringing the first and second connector formations in to proximity or, alternatively it may be convenient to install one or more components associated with the second eyelet after the first connector formation is in proximity with the second connector formation.

Similarly, threading the shaft and/or securing its distal end (e.g. applying a pin, circlip or bolt thereto) may be conducted before adjustment by rotating the clamping bush takes place, or between steps of rotating the clamping bush. It may for example be convenient to install all of the components loosely before at least final adjustment.

The method may also facilitate ongoing adjustment, for example to adjust or refine the position between the first and second connector formations during their operational lifetime. Thus the method may comprise loosening the shaft so as to enable such adjustment.

As disclosed above, a mechanical connector may comprise more than one eccentric bush and more than one clamping bush. The mechanical connector may also comprise a proximal second connector formation and a distal second connector formation.

Accordingly, the method may comprise rotating an inner and an outer clamping bush, so as to rotate respective inner and outer eccentric bushes rotationally coupled thereto.

It will again be appreciated that the various steps of rotational coupling, rotation and threading of the shaft, etc. may be conducted in various sequences. Indeed the shaft may be threaded in either direction (e.g. proximal to distal or distal to proximal). Inner and outer clamping bushes may be rotated simultaneously, and/or sequentially and/or iteratively, during adjustment and/or assembly of the mechanical coupling. Moreover, where multiple mechanical couplings are present, the method may comprise adjustment and or at least partial assembly of each, in any sequence.

The invention extends in a fourth aspect to a kit comprising an eccentric bush and a clamping bush as disclosed herein in relation to other aspects of the invention. The kit may comprise an inner eccentric bush and an outer eccentric bush and corresponding inner and outer clamping bushes rotationally couplable thereto. The kit may further comprise a shaft, a bolt threadable onto the shaft and/or conventional bushings as required for the mechanical connector of the first aspect.

Further features described in relation to each aspect of the invention also relate to any other aspect of the invention.

Description of the Drawings

Non-limiting examples will now be described with reference to the following figures in which:

Figure 1 shows a cross sectional view of a wing leading edge and a wing main body structure (a) during attachment and (b) when attached.

Figure 2 shows a perspective cross sectional view of a mechanical connector taken along line A.

Figure 3 is an exploded view of a mechanical connector as viewed from the distal side. Certain components have been omitted for clarity.

Figure 4 is a perspective view of an outer eccentric bush and outer clamping bush and an inner eccentric bush and inner clamping bush.

Figure 5 is a diagram representing the available range of lateral adjustment of the inner offset bore of an inner eccentric bush, in relation to the second axis of a mechanical connector as shown in Figures 2 and 3.

Figure 6 shows an alternative embodiment of a clamping bush.

Figure 7 shows a schematic view along the central axis of the clamping bush of Figure 6 rotationally coupled to an eccentric bush.

Detailed Description of Example Embodiments

Figure 1 shows a cross sectional view of an aircraft wing main structure 1 in the region where connection is made to a fixed leading edge 3, as an example application for a mechanical connector in accordance with the invention. The leading edge 3 has an aerodynamic panel 5 fixed to elongate structural brackets and beams indicated generally as 7. The fixed leading edge may be attached by a variety of means, but in the embodiment shown, upper and lower clevis connectors 9, 11 are used.

In particular where composite materials are used to form parts of the fixed leading edge, such as the structural beams extending along the wing (out of the plane of the view shown in Figure 1), manufacturing tolerances present in the relative locations of the connectors to one another and/or the skin in relation to the connectors, may necessitate adjustment of the position of the leading edge 3 on installation and/or adjustment of the connector 11 to allow it to be fully assembled.

Such adjustment may be required at one or both of the upper and lower connectors 9, 11.

Figure 2 shows a cross sectional view of a mechanical connector 100, such as through line A-A of the lower connector 11. An exploded view of the connector 100 is shown in Figure 3. Clamping bushes 150a and 150b are omitted from Figure 3 for clarity. Figure 4 shows perspective views of the eccentric and clamping bushes in further detail.

With reference to Figures 2, 4 and 4, the connector 100 has a first connector formation 102, which is a central lug attached to the wing leading edge 3. The connector also has proximal and distal second connector formations 104a, 104b, in the form of outer lugs attached to the wing main body 1.

The central connector formation 102 has a first eyelet 106. The second connector formation 104a, 104b have coaxial second eyelets 108a, 108b.

In the first eyelet 106 is an outer eccentric bush 110. The outer eccentric bush is rotatable within the first eyelet, around a first axis 112. The outer eccentric bush 110 has an outer offset bore 114, having an outer offset axis 116 which is parallel to and laterally offset from the first axis 112, by an amount Lo.

In the outer offset bore 114 is an inner eccentric bush 130. The inner eccentric bush 130 is rotatable within the outer offset bore 114 around the outer offset axis 116. The inner eccentric bush 130 has an inner offset bore 134, having an inner offset axis 136 which is parallel to and laterally offset from the outer offset axis, by an amount L,.

In the second eyelets 108a,b are respective clamping bushes 150a and 150b. An inner clamping bush 150a is located in the proximal second eyelet 108a and is rotatable around a second axis 113. The outer clamping bush 150b has a central bore 152b and the inner clamping bush has an inner bore 152a. The central and inner bores extend along the second axis 113. The bushes 150a and 150b are elongate so as to extend from the second eyelets 108a, 108b axially away from the second portions 104a and 104b. Thus, each of the clamping bushes has a readily accessible shoulders 158a and 158b by which the clamping bushes can gripped and rotated. Optionally, the shoulders 158a and 158b are provided with one or more flattened surfaces or other keyed formations, to facilitate gipping and turning using a wrench.

The inner eccentric bush 130 and the inner clamping bush 150a are rotationally coupled together at an inner interface region 180, between the first connector formation 102 and the proximal second connector formation 104a. Similarly, the outer eccentric bush 110 and the outer clamping bush 150b are rotationally coupled together at an outer interface region 190, between the first connector formation and the distal second connector formation 104b.

The structural features of the bushes at their interface regions are most clearly shown in Figure 4. Each bush has a series of coupling formations, circumferentially distributed around end flanges 118, 138, 154a and 154b.

In the embodiments shown in Figure 4, the clamping bushes are provided with pins 156a, 156b which extend from the end form the respective flanges 154a, 154b. The pins are sized to engage within recesses or apertures 119 and 139 in the end flanges 118 and 138.

Apertures 119, 139 are larger than the pins (both in terms of their radial and circumferential lengths) and are at least of diameter Loand Li, respectively (plus the radius of the pins themselves). This provides for a degree of axial and radial tolerance within which the pins can engage within the channels. That is to say, the clamping bushes and eccentric bushes need not be precisely aligned in order to bring the flanges together and rotationally couple the bushes. In alternative embodiments (not shown) pins may extend from the end flanges of the eccentric bushes, with recesses being provided in the end flanges of the clamping bushes. A shaft 170 (in the embodiment shown a bolt having a hex-head 172 is threaded through and thus aligns the inner bore 152a of the inner clamping bush 150a, central bore 152b of the outer clamping bush 150b and the inner offset bore 134 of the inner eccentric bush 130. The shaft is retained by a nut 174 threadably secured to a threaded portion 173 of the bolt 170. The hex-head 172 and bolt 174 may also assist in urging the clamping bushes and eccentric bushes together.

Also present in the eyelets 108a and 108b are conventional cylindrical bushes 160.

Conveniently, the bores 152a, 152b and 134 are of equal diameter. However, optionally additional bushings, bearing or the like may be provided and/or the shaft may also vary in diameter at different parts of its length, which may require differently sized bores.

In the embodiment shown, the first eyelet is centred around the first axis 112 and the second eyelets 108a,b are centred around the second axis 113. However, in alternative embodiments (not shown) one or both of the first and second axes may be adjusted, by way of ball joints associated with the respective eyelets, as disclosed herein.

Herein, the terms proximal and distal relate to the direction in which the pin is inserted through the eyelets, i.e. from the bolt end towards the nut end of the pin. As can be seen from the figures, the pin can be inserted in either direction and, moreover the eccentric bushes may also be inserted in either way around.

As can be seen from Figure 2, in a clevis connection such as connection 100, the external formations 104a and 104b prevent access to the components associated with the first eyelet 106. Thus, in order to adjust conventional bushings within the first eyelet, the bolt must be removed and the first and second formations separated, and the bushings in the first eyelet adjusted. It may be necessary to conduct this process several times. For attachment of a comparatively large structure, such as a fixed leading edge, this requires that the structures 1, 3 be moved between the positions shown in Figures 1(a) and 1(b) repeatedly, which is undesirable and time consuming.

An example of the assembly and adjustment of the mechanical coupling 100 will now be described.

The connector 100 can be partially pre-assembled by installing in the first eyelet 106 the outer eccentric bush 110 and, in the outer offset bore 114 of the outer eccentric bush 110, installing the inner eccentric bush.

From the inside of the clevis, i.e. between the proximal and distal second formations 104a and 104b, the clamping bushes can be inserted into the eyelets 108a and 108b (in the embodiment shown, within conventional bushes 160).

In the embodiment shown, the eccentric bushes are installed from opposite sides, but in alternative embodiments, they may be installed from the same side and concentric clamping bushes may be used.

The clamping bushes are slideable axially along the second axis, and can be moved apart sufficiently to admit the first formation 102. At this stage, due to manufacturing tolerances, the central bores 152a and 152b of the clamping bushes may not be aligned with the inner offset bore 134 to allow the shaft 170 to be installed.

It may therefore be required at this stage to slide one or both of the clamping bushes axially inward, to engage and rotationally couple to a respective eccentric bush, and to rotate the clamping bushes and adjust the position of the inner offset bore 134 and axis 136 into closer alignment with the second axis and central/inner bores.

When the central bores 152a and 152b of the clamping bushes are sufficiently aligned with the inner offset bore 134, the shaft 170 may then be threaded through the central and inner bores and the offset bores. The shaft may have a tapered end portion to facilitate its installation.

The bolt 174 may if required then be secured to the shaft 170 and, optionally, tightened sufficiently to bring the clamping bushes and eccentric bushes together.

When required (for example to adjust the positions of the structures being coupled, such as the wing leading edge to the wing main body), with at least the shaft in place (and optionally also the bolt) the clamping bushes can be further rotated to adjust the lateral position of the inner offset axis 136, and thus the position of the first portion 102 in relation to the second portions 104a and 104b.

The range of adjustment of the connector 100 is shown in Figure 5, which is a diagrammatic end view along the first axis 112. 110p is the outer diameter of the cylindrical region of the outer eccentric bush 110, proximal of the flange 118, as viewed from the perspective of Figures 2 and 4. 130d is the outer diameter of the cylindrical region of the inner eccentric bush 130 distal of the flange 138, which rotates within the outer offset bore 114. Accordingly, in the embodiment shown which lacks any intermediate bearing or bushing, 130d also represents the diameter of the outer offset bore 114. The inner and outer lateral offsets L, and Lo are also marked in Figure 5.

Rotation of the outer eccentric bush 110, as may be effected by rotating the outer clamping bush 150b rotationally coupled thereto, causes the outer offset axis 116 to describe a circle around the first axis 112, having a radius Lo. At any position of the outer eccentric bush 110, rotation of the inner eccentric bush 130 around the outer offset axis 116 causes the inner offset axis 136 to describe a circle of radius L,. Accordingly, at any point around the first axis, the inner offset axis 136 can be a maximum of Lo + L, from the first axis 112 and a minimum of Lo - L,from the first axis. In the present case Lo = L,.

Thus, summed across all possible positions of the outer offset axis 116, the inner offset axis 136 may be positioned anywhere within a circle of radius Lo + L, (i.e. 2 Lo in this example), as illustrated by the shaded area B in Figure 5. This represents the range of adjustment of the connector 100.

In order to accommodate the changes in the relative lateral positions of the inner clamping bush 150a in relation to the inner eccentric bush 130, and similarly of the outer clamping bush 150b to the outer eccentric bush 110, the pins 156a and 156b move around the periphery of the apertures 119, 139 as the bushes are rotated. The apertures 119 are accordingly of diameter Loand the apertures 139 have a diameter L,. In alternative embodiments, the apertures or recesses with which the pins engage are non-circular and/or of greater diameter, for example to provide additional axial or rotational tolerance.

Since the pins are smaller than the corresponding apertures, there may be a “dead spot” when reversing the direction of rotation of the clamping bushes, or when alternating between which of the bushes 150a and 150b is rotated, before a pin again encounters the edge of the aperture within which it is located.

Since the connector can be adjusted by applying a torque to the shoulders 158a and 158b of the clamping bushes, adjustment may be made when the first and second portions 102, 104a, b of the connector have already been brought together, or when the connector is fully assembled, for example when a fixed leading edge is in the position shown in Figure 1(b).

Figure 6 shows an alternative embodiment of a clamping bush 1150. Features in common with the embodiments of Figure 4 are provided with like reference numerals, incremented by 1000. The eccentric bush and the clamping bush can be rotationally coupled together via alternative coupling formations provided on/in the end flanges.

The clamping bush 1150 has a single slot 1119 in the end flange 1154, extending radially in relation to the axis of the central bore 1152. As shown in the view of Figure 7, along the central axis, the corresponding eccentric bush 1110 has a single pin 1156 extending from the end flange of the eccentric bush (not visible in the figures).

In use, as the clamping bush (and thus also the eccentric bush) is rotated, the pin 1156 slides within the slot 1119.

The precise orientation of the slot may be varied, providing that it is of sufficient length to accommodate the range of motion of the pin 1156 in relation to the flange 1154, as the bushes are rotated around 360°. The width and length of the slot may also be made larger, in order to provide additional axis or radial tolerance.

It will be understood that the mechanical connector may include both inner and outer eccentric bushes which interact with respective clamping bushes in this way. Indeed, the eccentric bushes may in alternative embodiments be provided with the slots and the pins may extend from the flanges of the clamping bushes.

Whilst exemplary embodiments have been described herein, these should not be construed as limiting to the modifications and variations possible within the scope of the invention as disclosed herein and recited in the appended claims. For example, hinged couplings, wherein the shaft is associated with bearings are envisaged as are various single eccentric bush embodiments and embodiments wherein clamping bushes are concentric and extend in the same direction from the eyelet. The example method of installation and assembly may also be varied within the scope of the invention, for example to vary the sequence of installation and adjustment steps and the like. Moreover, whilst example applications are disclosed, the couplings disclosed herein find application in a range of industries, including automotive, marine and the like.

Claims (32)

1. A mechanical connector comprising: a first connector formation having a first eyelet and a second connector formation having a second eyelet; an eccentric bush rotatably received in the first eyelet and rotatable within the first eyelet around a first axis, and having an offset bore with an offset axis parallel to and laterally offset from the first axis; a clamping bush rotatably received in the second eyelet and rotatable within the second eyelet around a second axis, and having a central bore along the second axis; wherein the second axis and the offset axis are aligned with a shaft, extending through the offset bore and the central bore; and wherein the eccentric bush and the clamping bush are rotationally coupled or couplable to one another at an interface region located between the first connector formation and the second connector formation.

2. The mechanical connector according to claim 1, wherein eccentric bush and the clamping bush are rotationally couplable/decouplable by moving the clamping bush axially in relation to the eccentric bush.

3. The mechanical connector according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the clamping bush is axially longer than the second eyelet.

4. The mechanical connector according to any preceding claim, wherein the eccentric bush and the clamping bush are rotationally couplable together in multiple relative rotational orientations.

5. The mechanical connector according to any preceding claim, wherein the eccentric bush and the clamping bush are configured to be rotationally couplable to one another within an axial tolerance.

6. The mechanical connector according to claim 5, wherein the axial tolerance is equal to or greater than the lateral offset between the first axis and the offset axis.

7. The mechanical connector according to any preceding claim, wherein the eccentric bush comprises a first coupling formation, and the clamping bush comprises a second coupling formation; and the first and second coupling formations engage at the interface region, and rotationally couple the eccentric bush and clamping bush together.

8. The mechanical connector according to claim 7, wherein one said coupling formation comprises a pin or projection and the other said coupling formation comprises a recess, hole or channel for receiving the pin or projection.

9. The mechanical connector according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the eccentric bush and/or the clamping bush comprise more than one said coupling formation distributed around the respective first and second axes.

10. The mechanical connector according to any one of claims 7 to 9, when dependent on claim 5 or 6, wherein axial tolerance is provided by a first coupling formation that is radially longer than a corresponding second coupling formation, or vice versa.

11. The mechanical connector according to any one of claims 7 to 10, wherein the eccentric bush comprises a first end flange, the first end flange comprising the or each first coupling formation; and wherein the clamping bush comprises a second end flange, the second end flange comprising the or each second coupling formation.

12. The mechanical connector according to claim 11, wherein first and/or second flange has a diameter greater than the respective first and second eyelet.

13. The mechanical connector according to any preceding claim, wherein the clamping bush comprises a keyed formation, to facilitate rotation of the clamping bush within the second eyelet.

14. The mechanical connector according to claim 13, wherein one or more external surfaces of the clamping bush comprise or together form the keyed formation and wherein the keyed formation extends an axial distance away from the second connector formation, for ease of access.

15. The mechanical connector according to any preceding claim, wherein each eyelet has an eyelet axis and wherein the first eyelet axis is aligned with the first axis; and the second eyelet axis is aligned with the second axis.

16. The mechanical connector according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the first and/or second axes may be adjustable, by adjusting the orientation of one or both of the bushes within their respective eyelets.

17. The mechanical connector according to claim 16, wherein the connector may comprise a ball joint associated with the first and/or second eyelet.

18. The mechanical connector according to any preceding claim, wherein the shaft is generally cylindrical, and is provided with a tapered end portion, to facilitate alignment of the central and offset bores during installation.

19. The mechanical connector according to any preceding claim, comprising more than one eccentric bush and more than one clamping bush.

20. The mechanical connector according to claim 19, comprising: an outer eccentric bush rotatably received in the first eyelet and rotatable within the first eyelet around a first axis, and having an outer offset bore with an outer offset axis parallel to and laterally offset from the first axis; an inner eccentric bush rotatable within the outer offset bore around the outer offset axis, and having an inner offset bore with an inner offset axis parallel to and laterally offset from the outer offset axis; an outer clamping bush rotatably received in the second eyelet and rotatable within the second eyelet around a second axis, and having a central bore along the second axis; an inner clamping bush rotatably received in the central bore and rotatable within the central bore around the second axis, and having an inner bore along the second axis; wherein the second axis and the inner offset axis are aligned with a shaft extending through the inner offset bore and the inner bore; and wherein the outer eccentric bush and the outer clamping bush are rotationally coupled or couplable to one another at an outer interface region located between the first connector formation and the second connector formation; and wherein the inner eccentric bush and the inner clamping bush are rotationally coupled or couplable to one another at an inner interface region located between the first and second connector formations.

21. The mechanical connector according to claim 19, wherein the first eyelet is disposed between two second eyelets, with a proximal second eyelet to one side and a distal second eyelet on the other side of the first eyelet.

22. The mechanical connector according to claim 21, comprising: a first connector formation having a first eyelet; a proximal second connector formation having a proximal second eyelet; and a distal second connector formation having a distal second eyelet coaxial with the proximal second eyelet; an outer eccentric bush rotatably received in the first eyelet and rotatable within the first eyelet around a first axis, and having an outer offset bore with an outer offset axis parallel to and laterally offset from the first axis; an inner eccentric bush rotatable within the outer offset bore around the outer offset axis, and having an inner offset bore with an inner offset axis parallel to and laterally offset from the outer offset axis; an outer clamping bush rotatably received in the distal second eyelet and rotatable therein around a second axis, and having a central bore along the second axis; an inner clamping bush rotatably received in the proximal second eyelet and rotatable therein around the second axis, and having an inner bore along the second axis; wherein the second axis and the inner offset axis are aligned with a shaft extending through the inner offset bore and the inner bore; and wherein the outer eccentric bush and the outer clamping bush are rotationally coupled or couplable to one another at an outer interface region located between the first connector formation and the distal second connector formation; and wherein the inner eccentric bush and the inner clamping bush are rotationally coupled or couplable to one another at an inner interface region located between the first connector formation and the proximal second connector formation.

23. The mechanical connector according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the lateral offset of the inner offset bore from the outer offset bore is at least as large as the lateral offset of the outer offset bore from the first axis.

24. An aircraft wing structure comprising a main body structure and a leading edge structure, and at least one mechanical connector according to any one preceding claim, connecting the main body structure and the leading edge structure.

25. A method of adjusting a mechanical connection between a first connector formation having a first eyelet and a second connector formation having a second eyelet; wherein an eccentric bush is rotatably received in the first eyelet and rotatable within the first eyelet around a first axis, and has an offset bore with an offset axis parallel to and laterally offset from the first axis; and wherein a clamping bush is rotatably received in the second eyelet and is rotatable within the second eyelet around a second axis, and has a central bore along the second axis; the method comprising: providing a shaft through the offset bore and the central bore, wherein the second axis and the offset axis are aligned; rotationally coupling the eccentric bush and the clamping bush to one another; and rotating the clamping bush to thereby rotate the eccentric bush.

26. The method of claim 25, comprising rotationally coupling the clamping bush and the eccentric bush and rotating the clamping bush to thereby rotate the eccentric bush, and adjust the position of the offset axis in relation to the second axis; and then providing the shaft through the offset bore and the central bore.

27. The method of claim 25 or 26, comprising providing the shaft through the offset bore and the central bore; and rotating the clamping bush to thereby rotate the eccentric bush, to adjust the position of the first axis in relation to the second axis.

28. The method of any one of claims 25 to 27, comprising rotationally coupling the eccentric bush and clamping bush by axially moving the clamping bush towards the eccentric bush and/or by rotating the clamping bush in relation to the eccentric bush.

29. The method of any one of claims 25 to 28, comprising bringing the first connecting formation into proximity with the second connecting formation and threading the shaft through the central bore and the offset bore, or vice versa.

30. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the first connector formation is connected to or forms part of a first structure and the second connector formation is connected to or forms part of a second structure and adjusting the mechanical connector comprises adjusting a panel gap or orientation between the first and second structures.

31. The method of claim 29 or 30, wherein the first connector formation is connected to or forms part of a first structure and the second connector formation is connected to or forms part of a second structure wherein the first and second structures are aircraft structures each having aerodynamic surfaces.

32. The method of any one of claims 25 to 31, wherein the mechanical connector is in accordance with any one or claims 19 to 23, and the method comprises rotating the inner and outer clamping bush, so as to rotate the respective inner and outer eccentric bushes rotationally coupled thereto.