The Boeing Company
Systems and methods for linkage controlling access panel on commercial aircraft

Abstract:

Various techniques are provided for a high clearance hinge linkage. In one example, a system includes a hinge linkage configured to couple to an aircraft beam to an aircraft panel. The hinge linkage includes an aircraft beam fitting configured to couple to a web of the aircraft beam and be disposed between an upper flange and a lower flange of the aircraft beam, an aircraft panel fitting coupled to the aircraft panel, and a plurality of links. The plurality of links couple the aircraft beam fitting to the aircraft panel fitting and are configured to articulate to move the aircraft panel between at least a closed position and an open position. In certain examples, an edge of the aircraft panel is substantially aligned with a portion of the aircraft beam web in the closed position. Additional systems and related methods are also provided.