Panel trimming system

Details Panel trimming system Panel trimming system

1999-12-03

2002-10-22

Ashley, Boyer D. (Department: 3724)

Cutting

Tool carrier or guide affixed to work during cutting

Entirely work supported

C083S471200, C083S489000, C083S823000, C083S056000, C083S701000, C083S100000, C030S372000, C029S897200, C029S897312

Reexamination Certificate

active

06467385

ABSTRACT:

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a system for trimming a panel to fit closely in an opening.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Some modern commercial aircraft have access panels in the underside of a wing. Such panels may be cut to fit and then installed in an opening after the wing skin sheets have been installed. One application of the present invention is in trimming such access panels for a close fit in the opening. A previously known method for trimming such a panel is to measure the opening and trim the panel accordingly. Another known method is to place one edge of the panel against the adjacent skin sheet, affix the panel in the opening along that edge, mark the other edge in the area to be trimmed, scribe the desired line of the cut, detach the panel, trim the panel along the scribe marking, and remount the panel in the opening.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a system for trimming a panel to fit closely in an opening. In the preferred embodiment, one side of the panel is trimmed while an opposite side is secured. The system includes a frame with a rail along which a carriage for a trim saw is moveable. The frame and rail can be secured adjacent to the opening by vacuum cups carried by the frame. Index flanges engage in the opening to position the rail adjacent to the panel edge to be trimmed. The position of the trim saw is adjustable relative to the rail to assure that the panel is trimmed precisely to fit within the opening when the frame is detached.


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