The Boeing Company

Bruce A Chappell

Daniel J Johnson

John D Friend

Jack M Whitney

Michael J Wieland

David B Hime

Velma C Keyser

Arthur W Burden

Michael W Swank

A method of removing and reinstalling multiple floor-beams concurrently while minimizing aircraft movement. The airplane is supported with jacks in a manner that minimizes internal shear and bending moment stresses. All floor-beams needing to be replaced are removed concurrently. All floor-attach structure such as floor panels, intercostals, seat-tracks, hard points, cargo handling equipment, and electrical and hydraulic standoffs is also removed. Deformation of the airplane is monitored and any significant deformation is restored. A floor-beam complex consisting of floor-beams, and all floor-attach structure such as floor panels, intercostals, seat tracks, hard points, cargo-handling equipment, and electrical and hydraulic standoffs is installed in place of the removed floor structure. The floor-beam complex has splices to facilitate handling during installation. More than one floor-beam complex may be required for a complete airplane. A special lifting tool is utilized to load the floor beam complex into the airplane.

Multi-beam method and apparatus for removing and replacing major structural components while converting an airplane to efficiently carry freight

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Wichita, KS, United States of America

Bruce A Chappell