Patent Publication Number: US-2023138722-A1

Title: Locking positioning systems

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure generally relates to systems for adjustably coupling two structures together, and more particularly relates to a locking positioning system that enables adjustment of one structure relative to the other structure over multiple degrees of freedom. 
     BACKGROUND 
     In certain instances, one or more structures may need to be mounted together, such as when mounting an engine to a vehicle, such as an aircraft, for example. In these instances, due to assembly constraints, manufacturing tolerances, and the like, the structures may not be properly aligned to enable fastening together using a conventional fastener. Rather, the structures may be slightly offset, such that the use of conventional fasteners is not feasible. Further, in certain instances, due to assembly constraints or manufacturing tolerances, one of the structures may need to be adjusted rotationally and linearly relative to the other structure at the installation site to enable the proper mounting of the structure to the other structure. 
     Accordingly, it is desirable to provide a locking positioning system for coupling structures together, which enables adjustment of one structure relative to the other structure in multiple degrees of freedom. Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description and the appended claims, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the foregoing technical field and background. 
     SUMMARY 
     According to various embodiments, provided is a locking positioning system. The locking positioning system includes a bearing including an inner race and an outer race. The outer race is coupled to the inner race, and the outer race is to be coupled to a second structure. The locking positioning system includes a housing movably coupled to the inner race, and the housing is to be coupled to a first structure. The locking positioning system includes a lock ring coupled to the housing. The lock ring is movable between a first position, in which the inner race is held in a fixed position, and a second position, in which the inner race is movable to adjust a position of the second structure relative to the first structure. 
     The locking positioning system includes a mechanical fastener that couples the lock ring to the inner race. The inner race defines an inner race attachment bore and the lock ring defines a lock ring bore coaxially aligned with the inner race attachment bore, and the mechanical fastener is received within the inner race attachment bore and the lock ring bore to couple the lock ring to the inner race. The lock ring bore is defined as a counterbore through a surface of the lock ring. The locking positioning system includes a spring disposed between a head of the mechanical fastener and a seat defined within the inner race attachment bore, and the spring biases the lock ring in the first position. The housing further includes a flange that includes a plurality of bores, with a head of the mechanical fastener received within one of the plurality of bores in the first position. The housing defines a plurality of housing teeth, and the lock ring defines a plurality of lock teeth that engage the plurality of housing teeth in the first position. The housing has a first housing end opposite a second housing end, with the plurality of housing teeth defined at the first housing end and a serrated slot defined at the second housing end, and the serrated slot is configured to receive a second mechanical fastener to couple the housing to the first structure. The second mechanical fastener includes a serrated washer, which engages with the serrated slot. The plurality of housing teeth are defined about a circumference of the housing and the plurality of lock teeth are defined about an inner circumference of the lock ring. The outer race defines at least one coupling bore to couple the outer race to the second structure. The outer race includes at least one threaded insert to receive a mechanical fastener to couple the outer race to the second structure. The lock ring includes a graspable surface defined about an outer perimeter of the lock ring. The first structure is a component associated with a vehicle, and the second structure is a component of an engine of the vehicle. The bearing is a spherical bearing. 
     Also provided is a locking positioning system. The locking positioning system includes a spherical bearing including an inner race and an outer race, and the outer race is coupled to the inner race. The outer race is to be coupled to a second structure. The locking positioning system includes a housing movably coupled to the inner race. The housing is to be coupled to a first structure and the housing defines a plurality of housing teeth about a circumference of the housing. The locking positioning system includes a lock ring coupled to the housing and the inner race. The lock ring defines a plurality of lock teeth about an inner circumference of the lock ring that engage the plurality of housing teeth in a first position. The lock ring movable between the first position, in which the inner race is held in a fixed position, and a second position, in which the inner race is movable to adjust a position of the second structure relative to the first structure. 
     The inner race defines an inner race attachment bore and the lock ring defines a lock ring bore coaxially aligned with the inner race attachment bore, and a mechanical fastener is received within the inner race attachment bore and the lock ring bore to couple the lock ring to the inner race. The locking positioning system includes a spring disposed between a head of the mechanical fastener and a seat defined within the inner race attachment bore, and the spring biases the lock ring in the first position. The housing defines a plurality of housing teeth about a circumference of the housing, and the lock ring defines a plurality of lock teeth about an inner circumference of the lock ring that engage the plurality of housing teeth in the first position. The housing has a first housing end opposite a second housing end, with the plurality of housing teeth defined at the first housing end and a serrated slot defined at the second housing end, and the serrated slot is configured to receive a second mechanical fastener to couple the housing to the first structure. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The exemplary embodiments will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the following drawing figures, wherein like numerals denote like elements, and wherein: 
         FIG.  1    is a schematic illustration of a plurality of exemplary locking positioning systems for coupling a movable structure, such as a component associated with a vehicle, to a fixed structure, such as the vehicle, in accordance with the various teachings of the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  2    is a top perspective view of one locking positioning system in a first, locked state in accordance with various embodiments; 
         FIG.  3    is an exploded view of the locking positioning system of  FIG.  2   ; 
         FIG.  4    is a cross-sectional view of the locking positioning system, taken along line  4 - 4  of  FIG.  1   , in which a lock ring associated with the locking positioning system is in a first position and the locking positioning system is in the first, locked state; 
         FIG.  5    is a top perspective view of the lock ring associated with the locking positioning system; 
         FIG.  6    is a cross-sectional view of a housing associated with the locking positioning system, taken along like  4 - 4  of  FIG.  1   , with the remaining components of the locking positioning system removed for clarity; 
         FIG.  7    is a bottom perspective view of the locking positioning system of  FIG.  2    in the first, locked state; 
         FIG.  8    is a cross-sectional view of the locking positioning system, taken from the perspective of line  4 - 4  of  FIG.  1   , in which the lock ring associated with the locking positioning system is in a second position and the locking positioning system is in a second, unlocked state; 
         FIG.  9    is a top perspective view of another exemplary locking positioning system for coupling a movable structure, such as a component associated with a vehicle, to a fixed structure, such as the vehicle, in a first, locked state in accordance with the various teachings of the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  10    is an exploded view of the locking positioning system of  FIG.  9   ; 
         FIG.  11    is a cross-sectional view of the locking positioning system, taken along line  11 - 11  of  FIG.  9   , in which a lock ring associated with the locking positioning system is in a first position and the locking positioning system is in the first, locked state; 
         FIG.  12    is a top perspective view of another exemplary locking positioning system for coupling a movable structure, such as a component associated with a vehicle, to a fixed structure, such as the vehicle, in a first, locked state in accordance with the various teachings of the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  13    is an exploded view of the locking positioning system of  FIG.  12   ; 
         FIG.  14    is a cross-sectional view of the locking positioning system, taken along line  14 - 14  of  FIG.  12   , in which a lock ring associated with the locking positioning system is in a first position and the locking positioning system is in the first, locked state; and 
         FIG.  15    is a bottom perspective view of the locking positioning system of  FIG.  12    in the first, locked state. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the application and uses. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed or implied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background, brief summary or the following detailed description. In addition, those skilled in the art will appreciate that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced in conjunction with any type of device that would benefit from a locking positioning system and the use of the locking positioning system for a gas turbine engine and a vehicle described herein is merely one exemplary embodiment according to the present disclosure. In addition, while the locking positioning system is described herein as being used with a gas turbine engine onboard a vehicle, such as a bus, motorcycle, train, automobile, marine vessel, aircraft, rotorcraft and the like, the various teachings of the present disclosure can be used with a gas turbine engine on a stationary platform. Further, it should be noted that many alternative or additional functional relationships or physical connections may be present in an embodiment of the present disclosure. In addition, while the figures shown herein depict an example with certain arrangements of elements, additional intervening elements, devices, features, or components may be present in an actual embodiment. It should also be understood that the drawings are merely illustrative and may not be drawn to scale. 
     As used herein, the term “axial” refers to a direction that is generally parallel to or coincident with an axis of rotation, axis of symmetry, or centerline of a component or components. For example, in a cylinder or disc with a centerline and generally circular ends or opposing faces, the “axial” direction may refer to the direction that generally extends in parallel to the centerline between the opposite ends or faces. In certain instances, the term “axial” may be utilized with respect to components that are not cylindrical (or otherwise radially symmetric). For example, the “axial” direction for a rectangular housing containing a rotating shaft may be viewed as a direction that is generally parallel to or coincident with the rotational axis of the shaft. Furthermore, the term “radially” as used herein may refer to a direction or a relationship of components with respect to a line extending outward from a shared centerline, axis, or similar reference, for example in a plane of a cylinder or disc that is perpendicular to the centerline or axis. In certain instances, components may be viewed as “radially” aligned even though one or both of the components may not be cylindrical (or otherwise radially symmetric). Furthermore, the terms “axial” and “radial” (and any derivatives) may encompass directional relationships that are other than precisely aligned with (e.g., oblique to) the true axial and radial dimensions, provided the relationship is predominantly in the respective nominal axial or radial direction. As used herein, the term “substantially” denotes within 5% to account for manufacturing tolerances. Also, as used herein, the term “about” denotes within 5% to account for manufacturing tolerances. 
     With reference to  FIG.  1   , a locking positioning system  100  is shown. In this example, three locking positioning systems  100  are shown for adjustably coupling a first, fixed structure  102  to a second, movable structure  104 . In one example, the first, fixed structure  102  comprises a component associated with a vehicle, and the second, movable structure  104  is a component associated with an engine of the vehicle. In the example of the vehicle as an aircraft, the first, fixed structure is a pylon on an airframe of the aircraft. In the example the aircraft, the second, movable structure  104  is a portion of an engine, such as a transcowl associated with a gas turbine engine. For example, the first, fixed structure  102  comprises the inboard longeron 130 of the engine pylon 120 of commonly assigned U.S. application Ser. No. ______ (Attorney Docket No. H223619-US (002.8057US)); and the second, movable structure  104  comprises the transcowl 112 of the gas turbine engine 102 of commonly assigned U.S. application Ser. No. ______ (Attorney Docket No. H223619-US (002.8057US)) titled “Pylon System for Coupling Engine to Vehicle” to Alstad et al., the relevant portion of which is incorporated herein by reference. It should be noted that in  FIG.  1   , the first, fixed structure  102  and the second, movable structure  104  are simplified for clarity. The first, fixed structure  102  includes at least one or a plurality of attachment bores  102   a , and the second, movable structure  104  includes at least one or a plurality of attachment points  104   a . In this example, the first, fixed structure  102  includes three attachment bores  102   a  and the second, movable structure  104  includes three attachment points  104   a . Each attachment point  104   a  includes a central receiving bore  106  and a pair of attachment holes  108  spaced apart from the central receiving bore  106  and opposite each other. The respective locking positioning system  100  is coupled to a respective one of the attachment bores  102   a  and a respective one of the attachment points  104   a . As will be discussed, the locking positioning system  100  enables the movement or adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first structure in multiple degrees of freedom enabling rotational and translational movement of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102 . Once the adjustment is complete, the locking positioning system  100  locks to fix the position and orientation of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  2   , a perspective view of the locking positioning system  100  is shown. In one example, the locking positioning system  100  includes a bearing, such as a spherical bearing  110 , a lock ring  112 , a housing  114 , a mechanical fastener or attachment bolt  116 , and at least one or a plurality of lock assemblies  118  ( FIG.  3   ). As will be discussed, the locking positioning system  100  is movable between a first, locked state and a second, unlocked state to enable the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  1   ) to be positioned in the desired orientation (rotation and translation) relative to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ). 
     With reference to  FIG.  3   , the spherical bearing  110  includes an inner race  120  and an outer race  122 . The spherical bearing  110  is composed of metal or metal alloy, and is cast, machined, forged, stamped, additively manufactured, etc. The inner race  120  is coupled to an inner bore  124  of the outer race  122 , and is movable relative to the outer race  122 . Generally, the inner race  120  rotates angularly within the inner bore  124  of the outer race  122  relative to a central axis CA of the outer race  122 , and also rotates about the central axis CA. The central axis CA of the outer race  122  is substantially parallel and colinear with a center axis C of the locking positioning system  100 . The inner race  120  includes an inner race bore  126 , an outer surface  128  and at least one or a plurality of inner race attachment bores  130 . The inner race bore  126  is cylindrical and defines an inner perimeter or circumference of the inner race  120 . The inner race bore  126  also defines a plurality of threads  132 . The plurality of threads  132  cooperate with a plurality of threads  134  defined on the housing  114  to enable the inner race  120  to move relative to the housing  114 . In this regard, a rotation of the inner race  120  causes a translation of the inner race  120  along the housing  114 , and thus, the outer race  122  coupled to the inner race  120 . The outer surface  128  defines the outer perimeter or circumference of the inner race  120 . The outer surface  128  is substantially smooth, and arcuate to enable the angular movement of the inner race  120  relative to the outer race  122 . 
     In this example, the inner race  120  defines three inner race attachment bores  130 . It should be noted that in other examples, the inner race  120  may be configured differently. Each of the inner race attachment bores  130  is cylindrical, and substantially smooth. In one example, with reference to  FIG.  4   , each of the inner race attachment bores  130  includes a reduced diameter proximate a first side  120   a  of the inner race  120 . The first side  120   a  of the inner race  120  is opposite a second side  120   b . The reduced diameter of each of the inner race attachment bores  130  defines a respective seat  136 . As will be discussed, the seat  136  cooperates with a respective one of the lock assemblies  118  to limit a movement of the respective one of the lock assemblies  118 . 
     With reference back to  FIG.  3   , the outer race  122  surrounds the inner race  120 . The outer race  122  includes the inner bore  124 , an outer race surface  140  and at least one or a pair of coupling flanges  142 . The inner bore  124  receives the inner race  120 , and defines the inner perimeter or spherical diameter of the outer race  122 . The inner bore  124  has a smooth, arcuate surface, which cooperates with the spherical diameter or outer surface  128  of the inner race  120  to enable the inner race  120  to move and articulate relative to the outer race  122 . The outer race  122  remains coupled to the inner race  120  due to the contact between the inner bore  124  of the inner race  120  and the outer surface  128  of the outer race  122 . The outer race surface  140  defines an outer perimeter or surface of the outer race  122 . The pair of coupling flanges  142  are coupled to the outer race surface  140  so as to extend axially from the outer race surface  140  on opposed sides of the outer race surface  140 . Each of the coupling flanges  142  define a coupling bore  144 . The coupling bore  144  is defined to extend along an axis substantially parallel to the central axis CA of the outer race  122 . In this example, the coupling bore  144  includes a threaded insert  146 , however, in other embodiments, the coupling bore  144  may include a plurality of internal threads. The threaded insert  146  includes a plurality of internal threads. The threaded insert  146  receives a mechanical fastener, such as a bolt  147  ( FIG.  4   ), to couple the outer race  122  to the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  4   ). In one example, the threaded insert  146  also includes a plurality of external threads and defines a groove about an outer circumference of the threaded insert  146 . The threaded insert  146  is threadably coupled to the coupling bore  144 , and stakes are driven through the coupling flange  142  and the coupling bore  144  to contact the groove of the threaded insert  146  to couple the threaded insert  146  to the coupling bore  144 . In other examples, the threaded insert  146  may be press-fit into the coupling bore  144 , or secured through another technique. Each of the coupling flanges  142  may define a plurality of reliefs  148  for mass savings. The reliefs  148  may be formed on both a first side  142   a  and an opposite second side  142   b  of each of the coupling flanges  142 . Generally, the reliefs  148  do not extend through the coupling flange  142  from the first side  142   a  to the second side  142   b . The reliefs  148  are generally defined such that an outer perimeter of the coupling flange  142  is solid, along with a solid branch interconnecting a central portion of the coupling flange  142  with the outer race surface  140 . 
     The lock ring  112  is coupled to the housing  114 . As will be discussed, the lock ring  112  is movable between a first position, in which the inner race  120  and the outer race  122  are held in a fixed position and the locking positioning system  100  is the first, locked state; and a second position, in which the inner race  120  is movable to adjust a position of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102  and the locking positioning system  100  is in the second, unlocked state. The lock ring  112  is composed of metal or metal alloy, and is cast, machined, forged, stamped, additively manufactured, etc. The lock ring  112  includes a lock ring body  150 , a lock ring flange  152 , lock ring bores  154  and an inner lock ring bore  156 . 
     The lock ring body  150  is cylindrical, and extends from a first ring end  150   a  to an opposite second ring end  150   b . The lock ring flange  152  is defined about an outer perimeter or circumference of the lock ring  112  at the first ring end  150   a  and extends axially from the first ring end  150   a  toward the second ring end  150   b . The lock ring flange  152  extends axially outward to define a graspable surface  158  to enable a user to manipulate the lock ring  112 . In one example, the graspable surface  158  is textured, and includes knurling, but the graspable surface  158  may be smooth, dimpled, etc. With reference to  FIG.  5   , the lock ring bores  154  are defined through the lock ring body  150  at the second ring end  150   b . In this example, the lock ring  112  includes three lock ring bores  154 , however, the lock ring  112  may include any number of bores that comports with the number of lock assemblies  118 . With reference to  FIG.  4   , the lock ring bores  154  are defined as counterbores through the second ring end  150   b  such that the lock ring bores  154  do not extend through the lock ring  112  from the first ring end  150   a  to the second ring end  150   b . Generally, the lock ring bores  154  terminate within the lock ring  112  within a region of the lock ring body  150  surrounded by the lock ring flange  152 . In this example, each of the lock ring bores  154  include a respective locking insert  160 . The locking inserts  160  are internally threaded, and threadably engage with a plurality of threads defined on a mechanical fastener, such as a shoulder bolt  180  of a respective one of the lock assemblies  118 . In one example, the locking insert  160  also includes a plurality of external threads and defines a groove about an outer circumference of the locking insert  160 . The locking inserts  160  is threadably coupled to the lock ring bore  154 , and stakes are driven through the lock ring  112  and the lock ring bore  154  to contact the groove to couple the locking insert  160  to the lock ring bore  154 . In other examples, the locking insert  160  may be press-fit into the lock ring bore  154 , or secured through another technique. Each of the lock ring bores  154  is coaxially aligned with a respective one of the inner race attachment bores  130  to receive the shoulder bolt  180  of the respective one of the lock assemblies  118  ( FIG.  4   ). 
     The inner lock ring bore  156  extends from the first ring end  150   a  to the second ring end  150   b . In one example, the inner lock ring bore  156  is defined as a countersunk hole through the lock ring  112 . With reference to  FIG.  5   , the inner lock ring bore  156  includes a plurality of lock teeth  162  defined about an inner perimeter or circumference of the inner lock ring bore  156  at the second ring end  150   b . A tooth space  164  is defined between adjacent lock teeth  162 , and the tooth space  164  receives a respective tooth of a plurality of housing teeth  166  ( FIG.  4   ) of the housing  114  ( FIG.  4   ) when the lock ring  112  is in the first position and the locking positioning system  100  is in the first, locked state ( FIG.  4   ). Each of the housing teeth  166  is spaced apart from the respective tooth space  164  and the lock teeth  162  when the lock ring  112  is in the second position and the locking positioning system  100  is in the second, unlocked state ( FIG.  8   ). 
     The housing  114  defines the housing teeth  166  at a first housing end  114   a  and defines a slot  168  at a second housing end  114   b , with the second housing end  114   b  opposite the first housing end  114   a . The housing  114  is composed of metal or metal alloy, and is cast, machined, forged, stamped, additively manufactured, etc. With reference to  FIG.  3   , the housing  114  is cylindrical, with an open perimeter at the first housing end  114   a  and a closed perimeter at the second housing end  114   b . The housing  114  includes the plurality of threads  134  that extend from the first housing end  114   a  to the second housing end  114   b , and cooperate with the threads  132  of the inner race  120  to enable the inner race  120  to move relative to the housing  114  in the second position of the lock ring  112 . The housing teeth  166  extend axially from the first housing end  114   a  to engage with the lock ring  112 , as discussed. The housing teeth  166  also define a stop  167  at the first housing end  114   a . In this regard, the housing teeth  166  are defined to extend radially outward from the outer circumference of the housing  114 , which forms a shelf or annular ledge defining the stop  167  that limits the further advancement of the inner race  120  relative to the housing  114 . Stated another way, the stop  167  retains the inner race  120  on the housing  114 . A housing tooth space  170  defined between adjacent housing teeth  166  receives a respective one of the lock teeth  162  when the lock ring  112  is in the first position and the locking positioning system  100  is in the first, locked state ( FIG.  4   ). Each of the lock teeth  162  is spaced apart from the respective housing tooth space  170  and the housing teeth  166  when the lock ring  112  is in the second position and the locking positioning system  100  is in the second, unlocked state ( FIG.  8   ). 
     With reference to  FIG.  6   , an interior surface of the housing  114  is substantially smooth. At the second housing end  114   b , the slot  168  is defined to enable the attachment bolt  116  to pass through the housing  114  and into the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  4   ). In this example, the slot  168  is elongated, and is defined along an axis that is substantially parallel to a housing central axis HCA. The housing central axis HCA is substantially parallel and colinear with the central axis CA of the outer race  122  and the center axis C of the locking positioning system  100  ( FIG.  4   ). In this example, the slot  168  includes a plurality of slot serrations  172 . The slot serrations  172  are defined about a perimeter of the slot  168 , and cooperate with a serrated washer  174  ( FIG.  4   ) of the attachment bolt  116  to couple the attachment bolt  116  ( FIG.  4   ) to the housing  114 . Generally, the slot serrations  172  enable the attachment bolt  116  to be coupled at various locations along the slot  168 , which enables the translation of the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  4   ) relative to the first, fixed structure  102 . It should be noted that the number of slot serrations  172  and the spacing between adjacent slot serrations  172  is predetermined to enable finite locations for coupling the attachment bolt  116  to the slot  168 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  4   , the attachment bolt  116  is coupled to the housing  114  via the serrated washer  174 . The attachment bolt  116  and the serrated washer  174  are each composed of metal or metal alloy, and are cast, machined, forged, additively manufactured, etc. The serrated washer  174  includes a plurality of washer serrations  176  that engage with the slot serrations  172  to maintain the position of the attachment bolt  116  relative to the housing  114 . The serrated washer  174  is coupled about a head  116   a  of the attachment bolt  116 . The head  116   a  of the attachment bolt  116  includes a tool coupling feature  175 , such as a hexagonal outer surface, internal hexagonal socket, etc. for coupling the attachment bolt  116  to a tool, such as a torque wrench, hex key, etc. A shank  116   b  of the attachment bolt  116  is coupled to the first, fixed structure  102 . In one example, the shank  116   b  includes threads and the attachment bore  102   a  is threaded to enable the attachment bolt  116  to be threadably coupled to the first, fixed structure  102 . Alternatively, or in addition, a nut (not shown) may be coupled to the shank  116   b  to further couple the attachment bolt  116  to the first, fixed structure  102 . While the attachment bolt  116  is described and illustrated herein as a bolt, it should be noted that any suitable mechanical fastener may be employed to removably couple the housing  114 , and thus, the locking positioning system  100  to the first, fixed structure  102 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  3   , in this example, the locking positioning system  100  includes three lock assemblies  118 . Each of the lock assemblies  118  includes a shoulder bolt  180  and a biasing member or spring  182 . The shoulder bolt  180  is composed of metal or metal alloy, and is cast, machined, forged, additively manufactured, etc. The spring  182  is composed of spring steel, and is extruded and wound. With reference to  FIG.  4   , the shoulder bolt  180  includes a head  180   a  and a shank  180   b . The head  180   a  is cylindrical, and has a diameter greater than the shank  180   b  to provide a second seat  184  for the spring  182 . The shank  180   b  is a stepped shank, and includes a smooth portion  186  that extends from the head  180   a  to a threaded portion  188 . The threaded portion  188  has a diameter that is different and smaller than the smooth portion  186 . The threaded portion  188  includes a plurality of threads to engage with the internal threads of a respective one of the locking inserts  160 . Generally, with reference to  FIG.  7   , when the threaded portion  188  is engaged with and coupled to the locking inserts  160 , the head  180   a  of the shoulder bolt  180  extends beyond the second side  120   b  of the inner race  120 . By sizing the shank  180   b  such that the head  180   a  is external to the inner race  120 , additional travel of the shoulder bolt  180  is provided to ensure that the lock teeth  162  disengage with the housing teeth  166  in the second position of the lock ring  112 . With reference back to  FIG.  4   , the spring  182  is coupled about the shoulder bolt  180  and one end of the spring  182  is seated on the second seat  184  of the head  180   a . The shoulder bolt  180  is inserted through a respective one of the inner race attachment bores  130  such that the spring  182  is received about the smooth portion  186  and retained within the respective inner race attachment bore  130  between the seat  136  and the second seat  184 . Generally, as will be discussed, the spring  182  is compressible by the head  180   a  of the shoulder bolt  180  to enable the lock ring  112  to be spaced apart from the housing  114  in the second position ( FIG.  8   ). In one example, the springs  182  compress to enable the lock ring  112  to move about 0.25 inches, which is about equal to or greater than a height of the housing teeth  166 . In one example, the user applies a force F of about 5 pounds (lbs.) to about 15 pounds (lbs.) to move the lock ring  112  away from the housing  114 . Once a force is removed from the lock ring  112 , the springs  182  expand, and engage the lock teeth  162  with the housing teeth  166  to return the lock ring  112  to the first position. In one example, each of the springs  182  have a spring rate of about 7 to about 20 pounds per inch (lbs./in). Generally, the locking positioning system  100  has a spring rate of about 20 pounds per inch (lbs./in.) to about 60 pounds per inch (lbs./in.), and while in this example, the spring rate is divided over three springs  182 , any number of springs may be employed. 
     In order to assemble the locking positioning system  100 , in one example, with the outer race  122  and the inner race  120  formed, the inner race  120  is coupled to the outer race  122  so as to be movable relative to the outer race  122 . The threaded inserts  146  are coupled to the coupling flanges  142  of the outer race  122 . With the housing  114  formed, the threads  134  of the housing  114  are engaged with the threads  132  of the inner race  120 . With the springs  182  positioned about the shoulder bolts  180 , the shoulder bolts  180  are inserted into the inner race attachment bores  130 . With the lock ring  112  formed, the locking inserts  160  are coupled to the lock ring  112 . The shoulder bolts  180  are engaged with the locking inserts  160  and the lock teeth  162  are engaged with the housing teeth  166 . With the lock teeth  162  engaged with the housing teeth  166 , the lock ring  112  is in the first position and the locking positioning system  100  is in the first, locked state. In the first position and first, locked state, the inner race  120  and the outer race  122  are held in a fixed position, and thus, the position of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102  is fixed and inhibited from movement during operation of the vehicle, for example, during flight of the aircraft. 
     In the first, locked state, the locking positioning system  100  is coupled to the second, movable structure  104 . The bolts  147  are inserted through the attachment holes  108  and into the threaded inserts  146  to couple the locking positioning system  100  to the second, movable structure  104 . With the serrated washer  174  coupled about the head  116   a  of the attachment bolt  116 , the attachment bolt  116  is inserted through the slot  168  and translated along the slot serrations  172  of the slot  168  until the second, movable structure  104  is located at a lateral position relative to the first, fixed structure  102 . 
     In order to adjust a rotational or angular position of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure, the lock ring  112  is moved from the first position to the second position. With reference to  FIG.  8   , the lock ring  112  is shown in the second position, and the locking positioning system  100  is in the second, unlocked state. In the second position and the second, unlocked state, the inner race  120  is movable relative to the housing  114  to adjust a position of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102 . In order to move the lock ring  112  to the second position, the force F is applied along the center axis C of the locking positioning system  100  to move the lock ring  112  relative to the housing  114 . In one example, the force F is applied by a user gripping the lock ring  112  and pulling the lock ring  112  away from the housing  114 . As the lock ring  112  moves along the center axis C, the shoulder bolts  180  translate within the inner race attachment bores  130  and compress the springs  182 . Once the lock ring  112  is moved such that the lock teeth  162  are spaced apart from the housing teeth  166 , the inner race  120  is rotatable by the movement of the lock ring  112 . In this regard, as the lock ring  112  is coupled to the inner race  120  via the lock assemblies  118 , a movement of the lock ring  112  results in a corresponding movement of the inner race  120 . In the second position, the lock ring  112  is manipulatable to move the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  4   ) angularly relative to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  4   ). The lock ring  112  is also rotatable in the second position, which enables the inner race  120  to be translated relative to the housing  114  along the center axis C, with the movement of the inner race  120  limited by the stop  167  of the housing  114 . The movement of the inner race  120  along the center axis C enables the second, movable structure  104  to be spaced closer to or further apart from the first, fixed structure  102  as the inner race  120  is coupled to the outer race  122  and the outer race  122  translates with the inner race  120 . Once the adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102  is complete, the lock ring  112  is released by the user, and the springs  182  expand, pulling the lock ring  112 , and thus, the lock teeth  162  into engagement with the housing teeth  166 . The springs  182  bias the lock ring  112  in the first position and bias the locking positioning system  100  in the first, locked state. 
     Thus, with reference to  FIG.  4   , the locking positioning system  100  enables adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  in multiple degrees of freedom. In this regard, the attachment bolt  116  cooperates with the slot  168  of the housing  114  to enable adjustment of the second, movable structure along an X-axis. The threads  132  of the inner race  120  cooperates with the threads  134  of the housing  114  to enable adjustment of the second, movable structure along a Y-axis, which is parallel to the center axis C. The angular rotation of the inner race  120  relative to the outer race  122  enables adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  in a yaw direction, rotating about the Y-axis. The rotation of the inner race  120  relative to the outer race  122  also enables adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  in a roll direction, rotating about the Z-axis. The rotation of the inner race  120  relative to the outer race  122  enables adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  in a pitch direction, rotating about the X-axis. 
     It should be noted that in other embodiments, the locking positioning system  100  may be configured differently to enable movement of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102  in various degrees of freedom. For example, with reference to  FIG.  9   , a locking positioning system  200  is shown. As the locking positioning system  200  includes components that are the same or similar to components of the locking positioning system  100  discussed with regard to  FIGS.  1 - 8   , the same reference numerals will be used to denote the same or similar components. In this example, the locking positioning system  200  includes a bearing, such as a spherical bearing  210 , a lock ring  212 , the housing  114  ( FIG.  10   ), the attachment bolt  116 , and the plurality of lock assemblies  118  ( FIG.  10   ). The locking positioning system  200  is movable between the first, locked state and the second, unlocked state to enable the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  1   ) to be positioned in the desired orientation (rotation and translation) relative to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ). 
     With reference to  FIG.  10   , the spherical bearing  210  includes an inner race  220  and an outer race  222 . The spherical bearing  210  is composed of metal or metal alloy, and is cast, machined, forged, stamped, additively manufactured, etc. The inner race  220  is coupled to an inner bore  224  of the outer race  222 , and is movable relative to the outer race  222 . Generally, with reference to  FIG.  11   , the inner race  220  rotates angularly within the inner bore  224  of the outer race  222  relative to a central axis CA 1  of the outer race  222 , and also rotates about the central axis CAL The central axis CA 1  of the outer race  222  is substantially parallel and colinear with a center axis C 1  of the locking positioning system  200 . With reference back to  FIG.  10   , the inner race  220  includes an inner race bore  226 , an outer surface  228 , at least one or a plurality of inner race attachment bores  230  and at least one or a plurality of inner race slots  232 . The inner race bore  226  is cylindrical and defines an inner perimeter or circumference of the inner race  220 . The inner race bore  226  also defines the plurality of threads  132 . The plurality of threads  132  cooperate with the plurality of threads  134  defined on the housing  114  to enable the inner race  220 , and thus, the outer race  222  coupled to the inner race  220 , to translate relative to the housing  114 . The outer surface  228  defines the outer perimeter or circumference of the inner race  220 . The outer surface  228  is substantially smooth, and arcuate to enable the angular movement of the inner race  220  relative to the outer race  222 . 
     In this example, the inner race  220  defines three inner race attachment bores  230 . It should be noted that in other examples, the inner race  220  may be configured differently. Each of the inner race attachment bores  230  is cylindrical, and substantially smooth. In one example, with reference to  FIG.  11   , each of the inner race attachment bores  230  includes a reduced diameter proximate a first side  220   a  of the inner race  220 . The first side  220   a  of the inner race  220  is opposite a second side  220   b . The reduced diameter of each of the inner race attachment bores  230  defines the respective seat  136 . 
     With reference back to  FIG.  10   , the inner race slots  232  are defined between the inner race attachment bores  230  and alternate with the inner race attachment bores  230 . In this example, the inner race  220  includes three inner race slots  232  that each alternate with the inner race attachment bores  230  about the circumference of the inner race  220 . The inner race slots  232  are arcuate, and reduce a mass of the inner race  220 . The inner race slots  232  extend from the first side  220   a  to the second side  220   b , however, in other embodiments, the inner race slots  232  may not extend through the entirety of the inner race  220 . 
     The outer race  222  surrounds the inner race  220 . The outer race  222  includes the inner bore  224 , an outer race surface  240 , a plurality of coupling bores  242  and at least one or a plurality of outer race slots  244 . The inner bore  224  receives the inner race  220 , and defines the inner perimeter or circumference of the outer race  222 . The inner bore  224  has a smooth, arcuate surface, which cooperates with the outer surface  228  of the inner race  220  to enable the inner race  220  to move and articulate relative to the outer race  222 . The outer race surface  240  defines an outer perimeter or surface of the outer race  222 . In this example, the outer race surface  240  is discontinuous, or is interrupted by slots  246 . The slots  246  are defined through the outer race surface  240  and are in communication with the outer race slots  244 . In this example, the slots  246  are defined so as to be positioned between adjacent ones of the coupling bores  242 . The slots  246  provide a mass savings for the outer race  222 . 
     The coupling bores  242  are each defined to extend along an axis substantially parallel to the central axis CA of the outer race  222 . In this example, each of the coupling bores  242  includes the threaded insert  146 , however, in other embodiments, the coupling bores  242  may include a plurality of internal threads. The threaded insert  146  includes the plurality of internal threads to receive the mechanical fastener, such as the bolt, to couple the outer race  222  to the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  1   ). The threaded insert  146  may be press-fit into the respective coupling bore  242 , for example. In this example, the outer race  222  has four coupling bores  242 , but the outer race  222  may have any desired number of coupling bores  242 . 
     The outer race slots  244  are defined through the outer race  222  from a first race end  222   a  to an opposite second race end  222   b . In this example, the outer race  222  includes four outer race slots  244 , which are spaced apart about the circumference of the outer race  222 . In this example, the outer race slots  244  alternate with the coupling bores  242  about the circumference of the outer race  222 . The outer race slots  244  provide a mass savings for the outer race  222 . In this example, the outer race slots  244  are in communication with the slots  246 . 
     The lock ring  212  is coupled to the housing  114 . The lock ring  212  is movable between the first position, in which the inner race  220  and the outer race  222  are held in a fixed position and the locking positioning system  200  is in first, locked state; and a second position, in which the inner race  220  is movable relative to the housing  114  to adjust a position of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ) and the locking positioning system  200  is in the second, unlocked state. The lock ring  212  is composed of metal or metal alloy, and is cast, machined, forged, stamped, additively manufactured, etc. The lock ring  212  includes a lock ring body  250 , lock ring bores  254  and an inner lock ring bore  256 . 
     The lock ring body  250  is cylindrical, and extends from a first ring end  250   a  to an opposite second ring end  250   b . The lock ring body  250  defines a graspable surface  258  about an outer perimeter or circumference of the lock ring  212  to enable a user to manipulate the lock ring  212 . In one example, the graspable surface  258  is textured, and includes knurling, but the graspable surface  258  may be smooth, dimpled, etc. The lock ring bores  254  are defined through the lock ring body  250  from the first ring end  250   a  to the second ring end  250   b  ( FIG.  11   ). In this example, the lock ring  212  includes three lock ring bores  254 , however, the lock ring  212  may include any number of bores that comports with the number of lock assemblies  118 . In this example, each of the lock ring bores  254  include a respective locking insert  260 . The locking inserts  260  are internally threaded, and threadably engage with a plurality of threads defined on a mechanical fastener, such as the shoulder bolt  180  of a respective one of the lock assemblies  118  ( FIG.  11   ). In certain examples, the locking inserts  260  may comprise the locking inserts  160 , if desired. Each of the lock ring bores  254  is coaxially aligned with a respective one of the inner race attachment bores  230  to receive the shoulder bolt  180  of the respective one of the lock assemblies  118  ( FIG.  11   ). 
     The inner lock ring bore  256  extends from the first ring end  250   a  to the second ring end  250   b . In one example, the inner lock ring bore  256  is defined as a countersunk hole through the lock ring  212 . With reference to  FIG.  11   , the inner lock ring bore  256  includes the plurality of lock teeth  162  defined about a perimeter or circumference of the inner lock ring bore  256  at the second ring end  250   b . The tooth space  164  is defined between adjacent lock teeth  162 , and the tooth space  164  receives the respective tooth of the plurality of housing teeth  166  of the housing  114  when the lock ring  212  is in the first position and the locking positioning system  200  is in the first, locked state. Each of the housing teeth  166  is spaced apart from the respective tooth space  164  and the lock teeth  162  when the lock ring  212  is in the second position and the locking positioning system  200  is in the second, unlocked state. 
     The housing  114  defines the housing teeth  166  at the first housing end  114   a  and defines the slot  168  at the second housing end  114   b . The housing  114  includes the plurality of threads  134  that extend from the first housing end  114   a  to the second housing end  114   b  and cooperate with the threads  132  of the inner race  220  to enable the inner race  220  to move relative to the housing  114  in the second position of the lock ring  212 . The housing teeth  166  extend axially from the first housing end  114   a  to engage with the lock ring  212 , as discussed. The housing teeth  166  also define the stop  167  at the first housing end  114   a  to limit the further advancement of the inner race  120  relative to the housing  114 . The housing tooth space  170  defined between adjacent housing teeth  166  receives the respective one of the lock teeth  162  when the lock ring  212  is in the first position and the locking positioning system  100  is in the first, locked state. Each of the lock teeth  162  is spaced apart from the respective housing tooth space  170  and the housing teeth  166  when the lock ring  212  is in the second position and the locking positioning system  100  is in the second, unlocked state. The slot  168  includes the slot serrations  172  that cooperate with the serrated washer  174  of the attachment bolt  116  to couple the attachment bolt  116  to the housing  114 . 
     The attachment bolt  116  is coupled to the housing  114  via the serrated washer  174 . The serrated washer  174  includes the washer serrations  176  that engage with the slot serrations  172  to maintain the position of the attachment bolt  116  relative to the housing  114 . The head  116   a  of the attachment bolt  116  includes the tool coupling feature  175  for coupling the attachment bolt  116  to the tool. The shank  116   b  of the attachment bolt  116  is coupled to the first, fixed structure  102 . In one example, the shank  116   b  includes threads and the attachment bore  102   a  is threaded to enable the attachment bolt  116  to be threadably coupled to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ). 
     With reference to  FIG.  10   , in this example, the locking positioning system  200  includes three lock assemblies  118 . Each of the lock assemblies  118  includes the shoulder bolt  180  and the biasing member or spring  182 . The head  180   a  provides the second seat  184  for the spring  182 . The shank  180   b  includes the smooth portion  186  that extends from the head  180   a  to the threaded portion  188 . The threaded portion  188  includes the plurality of threads to engage with the internal threads of a respective one of the locking inserts  260 . Generally, with reference to  FIG.  11   , when the threaded portion  188  is engaged with and coupled to the locking inserts  260 , the head  180   a  of the shoulder bolt  180  extends beyond the second side  220   b  of the inner race  220 . By sizing the shank  180   b  such that the head  180   a  is external to the inner race  220 , additional travel of the shoulder bolt  180  is provided to ensure that the lock teeth  162  disengage with the housing teeth  166  in the second position of the lock ring  212 . The shoulder bolt  180  is inserted through a respective one of the inner race attachment bores  130  such that the spring  182  is received about the smooth portion  186  and retained within the respective inner race attachment bore  130  between the seat  136  and the second seat  184 . The spring  182  is compressible by the head  180   a  of the shoulder bolt  180  to enable the lock ring  212  to be spaced apart from the housing  114  in the second position. Once a force is removed from the lock ring  212 , the springs  182  expand, and engage the lock teeth  162  with the housing teeth  166  to return the lock ring  212  to the first position. 
     As the use and assembly of the locking positioning system  200  is similar or substantially the same as the use an assembly of the locking positioning system  100 , discussed with regard to  FIGS.  1 - 8   , the use and assembly of the locking positioning system  200  will be discussed briefly herein. Briefly, the inner race  220  is coupled to the outer race  222  so as to be movable relative to the outer race  222 . The threaded inserts  146  are coupled to the coupling bores  242  of the outer race  222 . The threads  134  of the housing  114  are engaged with the threads  132  of the inner race  220 . With the springs  182  positioned about the shoulder bolts  180 , the shoulder bolts  180  are inserted into the inner race attachment bores  130 . The locking inserts  260  are coupled to the lock ring  212 . The shoulder bolts  180  are engaged with the locking inserts  260  and the lock teeth  162  are engaged with the housing teeth  166 . With the lock teeth  162  engaged with the housing teeth  166 , the lock ring  212  is in the first position and the locking positioning system  200  is in the first, locked state. 
     In the first, locked state, the locking positioning system  200  is coupled to the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  1   ). Fasteners are inserted through the attachment holes  108  ( FIG.  1   ) and into the threaded inserts  146  to couple the locking positioning system  200  to the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  1   ). With the serrated washer  174  coupled about the head  116   a  of the attachment bolt  116 , the attachment bolt  116  is inserted through the slot  168  and translated along the slot serrations  172  of the slot  168  until the second, movable structure  104  is located at a lateral position relative to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ). In the first position and first, locked state, the inner race  220  and the outer race  222  are held in a fixed position, and thus, the position of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102  is fixed and inhibited from movement during operation of the vehicle, for example, during flight of the aircraft. 
     In order to adjust a rotational or angular position of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure, the lock ring  212  is moved from the first position to the second position. In the second position and the second, unlocked state, the inner race  220  is movable relative to the housing  114  to adjust a position of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102 . In order to move the lock ring  212  to the second position, the force F ( FIG.  11   ) is applied along the center axis C of the locking positioning system  200  to move the lock ring  212  relative to the housing  114 . In one example, the force F is applied by a user gripping the lock ring  212  and pulling the lock ring  212  away from the housing  114 . As the lock ring  212  moves along the center axis C 1 , the shoulder bolts  180  translate within the inner race attachment bores  230  and compress the springs  182 . Once the lock ring  212  is moved such that the lock teeth  162  are spaced apart from the housing teeth  166 , the inner race  220  is rotatable by the movement of the lock ring  212 . In the second position, the lock ring  212  is manipulatable to move the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  1   ) angularly relative to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ). The lock ring  212  is also rotatable in the second position, which enables the inner race  220  to be translated relative to the housing  114  along the center axis C 1 . The movement of the inner race  220  along the center axis C 1  enables the second, movable structure  104  to be spaced closer to or further apart from the first, fixed structure  102  as the inner race  220  is coupled to the outer race  222  and the outer race  222  translates with the inner race  220 . Once the adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102  is complete, the lock ring  212  is released by the user, and the springs  182  expand, pulling the lock ring  212 , and thus, the lock teeth  162  into engagement with the housing teeth  166 . The springs  182  bias the lock ring  212  in the first position and bias the locking positioning system  200  in the first, locked state. 
     Thus, the locking positioning system  200  enables adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  in multiple degrees of freedom. In this regard, the attachment bolt  116  cooperates with the slot  168  of the housing  114  to enable adjustment of the second, movable structure along an X-axis. The threads  132  of the inner race  220  cooperates with the threads  134  of the housing  114  to enable adjustment of the second, movable structure along a Y-axis, which is parallel to the center axis C 1 . The angular rotation of the inner race  220  relative to the outer race  222  enables adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  in a yaw direction, rotating about the Y-axis. The rotation of the inner race  220  relative to the outer race  222  also enables adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  in a roll direction, rotating about the Z-axis. The rotation of the inner race  220  relative to the outer race  222  enables adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  in a pitch direction, rotating about the X-axis. 
     It should be noted that in other embodiments, the locking positioning system  100  may be configured differently to enable movement of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102  in various degrees of freedom. For example, with reference to  FIG.  12   , a locking positioning system  300  is shown. As the locking positioning system  300  includes components that are the same or similar to components of the locking positioning system  100  discussed with regard to  FIGS.  1 - 8    and the locking positioning system  200  discussed with regard to  FIGS.  9 - 11   , the same reference numerals will be used to denote the same or similar components. In this example, the locking positioning system  300  includes a bearing, such as a spherical bearing  310 , a lock ring  312 , a housing  314  ( FIG.  13   ), the attachment bolt  116 , and the plurality of lock assemblies  118  ( FIG.  13   ). The locking positioning system  300  is movable between the first, locked state and the second, unlocked state to enable the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  1   ) to be positioned in the desired orientation (rotation and translation) relative to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ). 
     With reference to  FIG.  13   , the spherical bearing  310  includes an inner race  320  and the outer race  222 . The spherical bearing  310  is composed of metal or metal alloy, and is cast, machined, forged, stamped, additively manufactured, etc. The inner race  320  is coupled to the inner bore  224  of the outer race  222 , and is movable relative to the outer race  222 . Generally, the inner race  320  rotates angularly within the inner bore  224  of the outer race  222  relative to the central axis CA 1  of the outer race  222  ( FIG.  14   ), and also rotates about the central axis CAL The central axis CA 1  of the outer race  222  is substantially parallel and colinear with a center axis C 2  of the locking positioning system  300 . The inner race  320  includes an inner race bore  326 , an outer surface  228  and at least one or a plurality of inner race attachment bores  330 . The inner race bore  326  is cylindrical and defines an inner perimeter or circumference of the inner race  320 . The inner race bore  326  also defines the plurality of threads  132 . The plurality of threads  132  cooperate with the plurality of threads  134  defined on the housing  314  to enable the housing  314  to move relative to the inner race  320 . A rotation of the inner race  320  causes a translation of the inner race  320  along the housing  114 , and thus, the outer race  222  coupled to the inner race  320 . The outer surface  228  defines the outer perimeter or circumference of the inner race  320 . The outer surface  228  is substantially smooth, and arcuate to enable the angular movement of the inner race  320  relative to the outer race  222 . 
     In this example, the inner race  320  defines twelve inner race attachment bores  330 . It should be noted that in other examples, the inner race  320  may be configured differently. Each of the inner race attachment bores  330  is cylindrical, and substantially smooth. In one example, with reference to  FIG.  14   , each of the inner race attachment bores  330  includes a reduced diameter proximate the first side  320   a  of the inner race  320 . The first side  320   a  of the inner race  320  is opposite a second side  320   b . The reduced diameter of each of the inner race attachment bores  330  defines the respective seat  136 . 
     The outer race  222  surrounds the inner race  320 . With reference back to  FIG.  13   , the outer race  222  includes the inner bore  224 , the outer race surface  240 , the plurality of coupling bores  242  and the plurality of outer race slots  244 . The inner bore  224  receives the inner race  320  and cooperates with the outer surface  228  of the inner race  320  to enable the inner race  320  to move and articulate relative to the outer race  222 . The outer race surface  240  is discontinuous, or is interrupted by the slots  246 . The slots  246  are defined through the outer race surface  240  and are in communication with the outer race slots  244 . Each of the coupling bores  242  includes the threaded insert  146 , however, in other embodiments, the coupling bores  242  may include a plurality of internal threads. The threaded insert  146  includes the plurality of internal threads to receive the mechanical fastener, such as the bolt, to couple the outer race  222  to the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  1   ). The outer race slots  244  alternate with the coupling bores  242  about the circumference of the outer race  222 . The outer race slots  244  are in communication with the slots  246 . 
     The lock ring  312  is coupled to the housing  314 . The lock ring  312  is movable between a first position, in which the inner race  320  and the outer race  222  are held in a fixed position and the locking positioning system  300  is in first, locked state; and a second position, in which the inner race  320  is movable relative to the housing  314  to adjust a position of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ) and the locking positioning system  300  is in the second, unlocked state. The lock ring  312  is composed of metal or metal alloy, and is cast, machined, forged, stamped, additively manufactured, etc. The lock ring  312  includes a lock ring body  350 , lock ring bores  354  and the inner lock ring bore  256 . 
     The lock ring body  350  is cylindrical, and extends from a first ring end  350   a  to an opposite second ring end  350   b . The lock ring body  350  defines the graspable surface  258  about an outer perimeter or circumference of the lock ring  312  to enable a user to manipulate the lock ring  312 . The lock ring bores  354  are defined through the lock ring body  350  from the first ring end  350   a  to the second ring end  350   b  ( FIG.  14   ). In this example, the lock ring  312  includes twelve lock ring bores  354 , however, the lock ring  312  may include any number of bores that comports with the number of lock assemblies  118 . In this example, each of the lock ring bores  354  include a respective locking insert  260 . The locking inserts  260  are internally threaded, and threadably engage with a plurality of threads defined on a mechanical fastener, such as the shoulder bolt  180  of a respective one of the lock assemblies  118  ( FIG.  14   ). 
     The inner lock ring bore  256  extends from the first ring end  350   a  to the second ring end  350   b . The inner lock ring bore  256  is defined as a countersunk hole through the lock ring  312 . With reference to  FIG.  14   , the inner lock ring bore  256  includes the plurality of lock teeth  162  defined about a perimeter or circumference of the inner lock ring bore  256  at the second ring end  350   b . The tooth space  164  is defined between adjacent lock teeth  162 , and the tooth space  164  receives the respective tooth of the plurality of housing teeth  166  of the housing  314  when the lock ring  312  is in the first position and the locking positioning system  300  is in the first, locked state. Each of the housing teeth  166  is spaced apart from the respective tooth space  164  and the lock teeth  162  when the lock ring  312  is in the second position and the locking positioning system  300  is in the second, unlocked state. 
     The housing  314  defines the housing teeth  166  at a first housing end  314   a  and defines the slot  168  and an attachment flange  370  at a second housing end  314   b , with the second housing end  314   b  opposite the first housing end  314   a . The housing  314  is composed of metal or metal alloy, and is cast, machined, forged, stamped, additively manufactured, etc. With reference to  FIG.  13   , the housing  314  is cylindrical, with an open perimeter at the first housing end  314   a  and a closed perimeter at the second housing end  314   b . The housing  314  includes the plurality of threads  134  that extend from the first housing end  314   a  to the second housing end  314   b  and cooperate with the threads  132  of the inner race  320  to enable the inner race  320  to move relative to the housing  314  in the second position of the lock ring  312 . The housing teeth  166  extend axially from the first housing end  314   a  to engage with the lock ring  312 . The housing teeth  166  also define the stop  167  at the first housing end  114   a  to limit the further advancement of the inner race  320  relative to the housing  114 . The housing tooth space  170  defined between adjacent housing teeth  166  receives a respective one of the lock teeth  162  when the lock ring  312  is in the first position and the locking positioning system  300  is in the first, locked state ( FIG.  14   ). Each of the lock teeth  162  is spaced apart from the respective housing tooth space  170  and the housing teeth  166  when the lock ring  312  is in the second position and the locking positioning system  300  is in the second, unlocked state. 
     An interior surface of the housing  314  is substantially smooth. At the second housing end  314   b , the slot  168  is defined to enable the attachment bolt  116  to pass through the housing  314  and into the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ). In this example, the slot  168  is elongated, and is defined along an axis that is substantially parallel to a housing central axis HCA 1 . The housing central axis HCA 1  is substantially parallel and colinear with the central axis CA 1  of the outer race  222  and the center axis C 2  of the locking positioning system  300 . The slot  168  includes the plurality of slot serrations  172  defined about a perimeter of the slot  168  that cooperate with the serrated washer  174  to couple the attachment bolt  116  to the housing  314 . 
     With reference to  FIG.  13   , the attachment flange  370  of the housing  314  extends radially outward from the housing  314  at the second housing end  314   b . The attachment flange  370  is annular, and defines a plurality of housing bores  372 . In this example, with reference to  FIG.  15   , the attachment flange  370  defines twelve housing bores  372 , one for each one of the shoulder bolts  180  associated with the lock assemblies  118 . Each of the housing bores  372  is coaxially aligned with a respective one of the inner race attachment bores  330  and lock ring bores  354  to receive the shoulder bolt  180  of the respective one of the lock assemblies  118  ( FIG.  13   ). Generally, once the locking positioning system  300  is assembled, each of the housing bores  372  surround the head  180   a  of the respective shoulder bolt  180  to guide a movement of the shoulder bolt  180  relative to the housing  314  during movement of the locking positioning system  300  between the first, locked state and the second, unlocked state. 
     With reference back to  FIG.  14   , the attachment bolt  116  is coupled to the housing  114  via the serrated washer  174 . The serrated washer  174  includes the washer serrations  176  that engage with the slot serrations  172  to maintain the position of the attachment bolt  116  relative to the housing  314 . The head  116   a  of the attachment bolt  116  includes the tool coupling feature  175  for coupling the attachment bolt  116  to the tool. The shank  116   b  of the attachment bolt  116  is coupled to the first, fixed structure  102 . In one example, the shank  116   b  includes threads and the attachment bore  102   a  is threaded to enable the attachment bolt  116  to be threadably coupled to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ). 
     With reference to  FIG.  13   , in this example, the locking positioning system  300  includes twelve lock assemblies  118 . Each of the lock assemblies  118  includes the shoulder bolt  180  and the biasing member or spring  182 . The head  180   a  provides the second seat  184  for the spring  182 . The shank  180   b  includes the smooth portion  186  that extends from the head  180   a  to the threaded portion  188 . The threaded portion  188  includes the plurality of threads to engage with the internal threads of a respective one of the locking inserts  260 . Generally, with reference to  FIG.  14   , when the threaded portion  188  is engaged with and coupled to the locking inserts  260 , the head  180   a  of the shoulder bolt  180  extends beyond the second side  320   b  of the inner race  320  and is surrounded by the respective housing bore  372 . By sizing the shank  180   b  such that the head  180   a  is external to the inner race  320 , additional travel of the shoulder bolt  180  is provided to ensure that the lock teeth  162  disengage with the housing teeth  166  in the second position of the lock ring  312 . The shoulder bolt  180  is inserted through a respective one of the inner race attachment bores  330  such that the spring  182  is received about the smooth portion  186  and retained within the respective inner race attachment bore  130  between the seat  136  and the second seat  184 . The spring  182  is compressible by the head  180   a  of the shoulder bolt  180  to enable the lock ring  312  to be spaced apart from the housing  314  in the second position. Once a force is removed from the lock ring  312 , the springs  182  expand, and engage the lock teeth  162  with the housing teeth  166  to return the lock ring  312  to the first position. 
     As the use and assembly of the locking positioning system  300  is similar or substantially the same as the use an assembly of the locking positioning system  100  and  200 , discussed with regard to  FIGS.  1 - 11   , the use and assembly of the locking positioning system  300  will be discussed briefly herein. Briefly, the inner race  320  is coupled to the outer race  222  so as to be movable relative to the outer race  222 . The threaded inserts  146  are coupled to the coupling bores  242  of the outer race  222 . The threads  134  of the housing  314  are engaged with the threads  132  of the inner race  320 . With the springs  182  positioned about the shoulder bolts  180 , the shoulder bolts  180  are inserted through the respective housing bores  372  and into the inner race attachment bores  330 . The locking inserts  260  are coupled to the lock ring  312 . The shoulder bolts  180  are engaged with the locking inserts  260  and the lock teeth  162  are engaged with the housing teeth  166 . With the lock teeth  162  engaged with the housing teeth  166 , the lock ring  312  is in the first position and the locking positioning system  300  is in the first, locked state. 
     In the first, locked state, the locking positioning system  300  is coupled to the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  1   ). Fasteners are inserted through the attachment holes  108  ( FIG.  1   ) and into the threaded inserts  146  to couple the locking positioning system  300  to the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  1   ). With the serrated washer  174  coupled about the head  116   a  of the attachment bolt  116 , the attachment bolt  116  is inserted through the slot  168  and translated along the slot serrations  172  of the slot  168  until the second, movable structure  104  is located at a lateral position relative to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ). In the first position and first, locked state, the inner race  320  and the outer race  222  are each held in a fixed position, and thus, the position of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ) is fixed and inhibited from movement during operation of the vehicle, such as, during flight of the aircraft. 
     In order to adjust a rotational or angular position of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure, the lock ring  312  is moved from the first position to the second position. In the second position and the second, unlocked state, the inner race  320  is movable relative to the housing  314  to adjust a position of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ). In order to move the lock ring  312  to the second position, with reference to  FIG.  14   , the force F is applied along the center axis C 2  of the locking positioning system  300  to move the lock ring  312  relative to the housing  314 . In one example, the force F is applied by a user gripping the lock ring  312  and pulling the lock ring  312  away from the housing  314 . As the lock ring  312  moves along the center axis C 2 , the shoulder bolts  180  translate within the inner race attachment bores  230  and compress the springs  182 . Once the lock ring  312  is moved such that the lock teeth  162  are spaced apart from the housing teeth  166 , the inner race  320  is rotatable by the movement of the lock ring  312 . In the second position, the lock ring  312  is manipulatable to move the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  1   ) angularly relative to the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ). The lock ring  312  is also rotatable in the second position, which enables the inner race  320  to be translated relative to the housing  114  along the center axis C 2 . The movement of the inner race  320  along the center axis C 2  enables the second, movable structure  104  to be spaced closer to or further apart from the first, fixed structure  102  as the inner race  320  is coupled to the outer race  322  and the outer race  322  translates with the inner race  320 . Once the adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  relative to the first, fixed structure  102  is complete, the lock ring  312  is released by the user, and the springs  182  expand, pulling the lock ring  312 , and thus, the lock teeth  162  into engagement with the housing teeth  166 . The springs  182  bias the lock ring  312  in the first position and bias the locking positioning system  300  in the first, locked state. 
     Thus, the locking positioning system  300  enables adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  in multiple degrees of freedom. In this regard, the attachment bolt  116  cooperates with the slot  168  of the housing  314  to enable adjustment of the second, movable structure along an X-axis. The threads  132  of the inner race  320  cooperates with the threads  134  of the housing  314  to enable adjustment of the second, movable structure along a Y-axis, which is parallel to the center axis C. The angular rotation of the inner race  320  relative to the outer race  222  enables adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  in a yaw direction, rotating about the Y-axis. The rotation of the inner race  320  relative to the outer race  222  also enables adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  in a roll direction, rotating about the Z-axis. The rotation of the inner race  320  relative to the outer race  222  enables adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  in a pitch direction, rotating about the X-axis. In addition, the use of the twelve lock assemblies  118  ensure the locking positioning system  300  remains in the first, locked state when experiencing high torque. In this regard, in the first position, the lock teeth  162  and the housing teeth  166  are engaged while the heads  180   a  of the shoulder bolts  180  are also engaged in the housing bores  372  of the attachment flange  370 . This may be beneficial for an application in which an extremely high torque is expected on the outer race  222 . 
     Thus, the locking positioning system  100 ,  200 ,  300  couples the first, fixed structure  102  ( FIG.  1   ) to the second, movable structure  104 , but enables the second, movable structure  104  to be adjusted relative to the first, fixed structure  102  in various degrees of freedom. By enabling the adjustment of the second, movable structure  104  ( FIG.  1   ) in various degrees of freedom, misalignment between the first, fixed structure  102  and the second, movable structure  104  can be reduced or eliminated, which in the example of an aircraft, may reduce drag. In addition, by enabling the adjustment through the movement of the lock ring  112 ,  212 ,  312 , a user can adjust the second, movable structure  104  by hand and without the use of special tools. This enables adjustments to be made easily, and at various locations. Generally, the locking positioning system  100 ,  200 ,  300  enables adjustments between the second, movable structure  104  and the first, fixed structure  102  when tool access or visual access is difficult, limited, or substantially impossible. 
     In this document, relational terms such as first and second, and the like may be used solely to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. Numerical ordinals such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. simply denote different singles of a plurality and do not imply any order or sequence unless specifically defined by the claim language. The sequence of the text in any of the claims does not imply that process steps must be performed in a temporal or logical order according to such sequence unless it is specifically defined by the language of the claim. The process steps may be interchanged in any order without departing from the scope of the invention as long as such an interchange does not contradict the claim language and is not logically nonsensical. 
     While at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the foregoing detailed description, it should be appreciated that a vast number of variations exist. It should also be appreciated that the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments are only examples, and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure in any way. Rather, the foregoing detailed description will provide those skilled in the art with a convenient road map for implementing the exemplary embodiment or exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that various changes can be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims and the legal equivalents thereof.