Brake system for rotary actuator, method of preventing backfall of a rotary actuator and aircraft
Patent Information
- Application Number
- BR102021021370
- Authority / Receiving Office
- BR · BR
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Publication Date
- 2026-09-15
Smart Images
Figure 00000028_0000 
Figure 00000029_0000 
Figure 00000030_0000
Abstract
Description
1 / 21 Brake system for rotary actuator, method for preventing backlash of a rotary actuator and aircraft. BACKGROUND INFORMATION 1. Field:
[0001] The present invention relates to actuators in general. More specifically, the present description relates to a split cam brake system used with rotary actuator assemblies for aircraft applications. 2. Background:
[0002] Aircraft often employ rotary actuators to direct the movement of mechanical parts throughout the aircraft. For example, but not limited to, wing flap movement systems, vane movement systems, or some door applications have rotary actuators that function to bring the aircraft part into the appropriate position during takeoff, landing, and during other aircraft operating points.
[0003] Once the part movement is complete, it is imperative to prevent the actuator from moving backward so that the part remains in the correct position. Unwanted movement of aircraft parts can lead to efficiency or safety issues.
[0004] Brake systems are integrated into rotary actuators to solve this problem. These brake systems are designed to prevent kickback. Commonly used brake systems include disc or inclined roller brakes, among others.
[0005] Both types of brake systems rely on friction plates to generate holding force. Drag problems associated with friction plates can generate heat, which can cause wear on the system. Furthermore, the use of multiple friction plates in a disc or inclined roller brake system assembly can be... Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 6 / 71 2 / 21 larger than desired, thus limiting its use to restricted areas of the aircraft.
[0006] Therefore, it would be desirable to have a method and devices that take into account at least some of the issues discussed above, as well as other possible issues. SUMMARY
[0007] An illustrative embodiment of the present description provides a locking system for a rotary actuator comprising a housing and a split cam design. An actuating cam is located within the housing and is associated with an upstream side of the brake system. The actuating cam is configured to rotate and transmit torque when a load is applied on the upstream side. A wedge cam is also located within the housing and is associated with a downstream side of the brake system. The wedge cam is configured to prevent backsliding when torque is applied on the downstream side. A plurality of cylindrical rollers is positioned between the wedge cam and the brake system housing. The plurality of cylindrical rollers is configured to engage between a surface of the wedge cam and the housing when torque is applied to the downstream side, thus preventing backsliding. Several pairs of cylindrical rollers may be employed.
[0008] Another illustrative embodiment of the present description provides a method for braking a rotary actuator. A load is applied to an upstream side of a brake system by means of the rotary actuator. A drive cam within a housing on the upstream side of the brake system is rotated and torque is transmitted to a wedge cam. The wedge cam within the housing rotates in assembly with the drive cam. The load applied to the upstream side of the brake system stops. Backlash of the brake system is prevented by using a plurality of cylindrical rollers oriented between the Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 7 / 71 3 / 21 wedge cam and the housing are fitted between these two structures when torque is applied to the downstream side of the brake system.
[0009] Another illustrative embodiment of the present description provides an aircraft having a geared rotary actuator and a brake system comprising a housing and a split cam design. The brake system has an actuating cam, a wedge cam, and a plurality of cylindrical rollers. The actuating cam is located within the housing and is associated with an upstream side of the brake system. The actuating cam rotates and transmits torque when a load is applied on the upstream side. The wedge cam is also located within the housing and is associated with a downstream side of the brake system. The wedge cam prevents backslide when torque is applied on the downstream side. The plurality of cylindrical rollers is positioned between the wedge cam and the brake system housing. The plurality of cylindrical rollers engages between a surface of the wedge cam and the housing when torque is applied to the downstream side, thus preventing backslide.Several pairs of cylindrical rollers can be used.
[0010] In addition, the description includes concretizations according to the following examples:
[0011] Example 1. An aircraft comprising: a rotary actuator with gears; and a braking system for the rotary actuator with gears comprising: an accommodation; an actuating cam within the housing and associated with an upstream side of the brake system, wherein the actuating cam rotates when torque is applied to the upstream side; and a wedge cam within the housing and associated with a Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 8 / 71 4 / 21 downstream side of the brake system, wherein the wedge cam prevents backflow when torque is applied to the downstream side; and a plurality of cylindrical rollers positioned between the wedge cam and the housing that wedge between a surface of the wedge cam and the housing when torque is applied to the downstream side.
[0012] Example 2. The aircraft, according to example 1, wherein the wedge cam comprises: a first series of cutouts having a curved surface.
[0013] Example 3. The aircraft, according to example 2, in which the actuation cam comprises: a second series of cutouts corresponding to the first series of cutouts of the wedge cam so that the plurality of cylindrical rollers is positioned within channels created by the first series of cutouts and the second series of cutouts.
[0014] Example 4. The aircraft, according to example 1, in which the plurality of cylindrical rollers comprises: a first pair of cylindrical rollers positioned in a first channel between the wedge cam and the housing; a second pair of cylindrical rollers positioned in a first channel between the wedge cam and the housing; a third pair of cylindrical rollers positioned in a third channel between the wedge cam and the housing; and a spring cage associated with each pair of cylindrical rollers.
[0015] Example 5. The aircraft of example 4, wherein the geared rotary actuator is configured to move a selected aircraft part of one of a leading-edge flap, a trailing-edge flap, a leading-edge vane, a trailing-edge vane, a horizontal stabilizer, a folding wingtip, or a door.
[0016] Example 6. The aircraft from example 1, in which the system of Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, p. 9 / 71 5 / 21 brake also comprises: a central support shaft associated with the actuation cam.
[0017] Example 7. The aircraft, according to example 6, in which the braking system still comprises: a plurality of bearings associated with at least one of the drive cam and the wedge cam. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The new features believed to be characteristic of the illustrative embodiments are presented in the appended claims. The illustrative embodiments, however, as well as a preferred mode of use, other purposes and characteristics thereof, will be better understood by reference to the following detailed description of an illustrative embodiment of the present description when read in conjunction with the appended drawings, in which:
[0019] Figure 1 is an illustration of an aircraft according to an illustrative embodiment;
[0020] Figure 2 is an illustration of a block diagram of a platform according to an illustrative embodiment;
[0021] Figure 3 is an illustration of an exploded view of the rotary actuator and brake system according to an illustrative embodiment;
[0022] Figure 4 is an illustration of a drive cam according to an illustrative embodiment;
[0023] Figure 5 is an illustration of a wedge cam according to an illustrative embodiment;
[0024] Figure 6A is an illustration of a wedge cam according to an illustrative embodiment;
[0025] Figure 6B is a free-body diagram of a cylindrical roll according to an illustrative embodiment;
[0026] Figure 7 is an illustration of a cross-sectional view. Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 10 / 71 6 / 21 transverse section of a split cam rotary actuator and brake system according to an illustrative embodiment;
[0027] Figure 8 is an illustration of a flowchart of a process to prevent backflow in a rotary actuator according to an illustrative embodiment;
[0028] Figure 9 is an illustration of a block diagram of a method for manufacturing and servicing aircraft according to an illustrative embodiment; and
[0029] Figure 10 is an illustration of a block diagram of an aircraft in which an illustrative embodiment can be implemented. DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0030] The illustrative embodiments acknowledge and take into consideration one or more different considerations. For example, the illustrative embodiments acknowledge and take into consideration that aircraft manufacturers are designing aircraft parts, such as wing flaps, with increasingly smaller confined spaces to accommodate associated mechanical components. As a result, some rotary actuator brake systems currently employed may be too large for these confined spaces, necessitating a redesign of the assembly.
[0031] The illustrative embodiments also acknowledge and take into consideration that brake systems using friction plates can generate undesirable levels of heat that result in system inefficiencies, vibration, and possibly damage to one or more components. The weight, size, and complexity of these systems requiring friction plates can make assembly more laborious than intended.
[0032] Thus, the disclosed embodiments provide a braking system for a geared rotary actuator with a design of Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 11 / 71 This 7 / 21 split cam brake system does not use friction plates and is simple, compact, and easy to assemble. The brake system has a housing, a drive cam, a wedge cam, and a plurality of cylindrical rollers. The drive cam is located inside the housing and is associated with an upstream side of the brake system. The drive cam is configured to allow rotation and transmit torque when a load is applied on the upstream side. The wedge cam is also located inside the housing and is associated with a downstream side of the brake system. The wedge cam is configured to prevent backslide when torque is applied on the downstream side. The plurality of cylindrical rollers is positioned between the wedge cam and the brake system housing. The plurality of cylindrical rollers is configured to fit between a surface of the wedge cam and the housing when torque is applied to the downstream side.Several pairs of cylindrical rollers can be employed to prevent unwanted backlash. Simply put, the input on the upstream side of the brake system will allow bidirectional movement of both cams; however, the wedge cam will prevent any input movement from the downstream side.
[0033] With reference now to the figures and, in particular, with reference to Figure 1, an illustration of an aircraft is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. Figure 1 represents aircraft 100 with body 102 and wing 104 and wing 106. Body 102 is a fuselage in this illustrative example. Wing 104 has wing flaps 108, while wing 106 has wing flaps 110. Each of the wing flaps 108 and wing flaps 110 can be controlled during the operation of aircraft 100 using a rotary actuator and brake system.
[0034] Aircraft 100 also comprises tail section 112 with vertical stabilizer 114, horizontal stabilizer 116 and horizontal stabilizer 118. The movement of these components is Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 12 / 71 If there is an 8 / 21, it can also be controlled by a rotary actuator and brake system according to an illustrative embodiment.
[0035] Returning now to Figure 2, an illustration of a block diagram of a platform is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. Platform 200 has rotary actuator 202 and braking system 204 in this illustrative example.
[0036] Platform 200 can take a variety of different forms. For example, without limitation, rotary actuator 202 and brake system 204 can be implemented on a mobile platform, a stationary platform, a land-based structure, a water-based structure, or a space-based structure. More specifically, the platform can be an aircraft, a surface vessel, a tank, a personnel carrier, a train, a spacecraft, a space station, a satellite, a submarine, an automobile, a power plant, a bridge, a dam, a house, a manufacturing facility, a building, a tool, a mechanical structure, or some other suitable platform or structure where backlash prevention is desirable.
[0037] In this illustrative example, platform 200 takes the form of aircraft 100. Aircraft 100 comprises a series of rotary actuators and associated brake systems implemented to control aircraft parts 205. As used in this document, a number when used with reference to items means one or more items. Thus, a series of rotary actuators is one or more rotary actuators.
[0038] Aircraft parts 205 may take a variety of different forms. For example, without limitation, one of the aircraft parts 205 may take the form of a leading edge flap, a trailing edge flap, a leading edge vane, a trailing edge vane, a horizontal stabilizer, a folding wingtip, a door, or some other suitable part. In this illustrative example, Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 13 / 71 9 / 21 Aircraft parts 205 include wing flaps 108 and wing flaps 110.
[0039] Wing flap 206 is one of wing flaps 108 on wing 104 of aircraft 100. The movement of wing flap 206 is controlled by rotary actuator 202 with brake system 204 in this illustrative example. Rotary actuator 202 comprises a combination of components configured to produce rotary motion used to move wing flap 206 in a desired manner.
[0040] Brake system 204 comprises components configured to substantially prevent or impede backlash 208. The phrase "substantially prevent," as used herein, means to reduce, diminish, or eliminate backlash completely or within selected tolerances that are sufficient to certify the part for airworthiness or to meet other standards for operation of brake system 204.
[0041] Backlash 208 results in the reversal of the movement of rotary actuator 202 (and brake system 204) when the input-driven movement has been interrupted. Specifically, torque 210 applied to the output side of brake system 204 causes backlash 208. Backlash 208 of brake system 204 is undesirable because backlash 208 could dislodge wing flap 206 from its desired orientation while aircraft 100 is in operation. Backlash 208 can cause safety or efficiency problems for wing flap 206, wing 104, or aircraft 100.
[0042] As represented, the locking system 204 comprises housing 212, drive cam 214, wedge cam 224, plurality of cylindrical rollers 226, spring cage 228 and plurality of bearings 230. The housing 212 is a structural component that encloses one or more parts of the brake system 204. The housing 212 may be composed of a metal, a metal alloy, steel, composite material, a combination thereof or any other Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 14 / 71 10 / 21 material or combination of material, depending on the particular implementation.
[0043] The actuating cam 214 is a component located within the housing 212. The actuating cam 214 drives the rotational movement within the brake system 204. It receives input from the rotary actuator 202. The actuating cam 214 is associated with the upstream side 216 of the brake system 204 and is configured to rotate when torque 218 is applied to the upstream side 216. The actuating cam 214 allows bidirectional movement of the brake system 204 when torque is applied to the upstream side 216. The upstream side 216 may also be referred to as the input side of the brake system 204.
[0044] In this illustrative example, the drive cam 214 has an entry groove 220 and a central support shaft 222. The central support shaft 222 is a shaft that allows rotational movement of the cams. Both the entry groove 220 and the central support shaft 222 can be manufactured as part of the drive cam 214.
[0045] As illustrated, the wedge cam 224 is a component located within the housing 212 and is connected to the drive cam 214. The two cams operate in tandem in the system. The wedge cam 224 is associated with the downstream side 232 of the rotary actuator 202. The wedge cam 224 is configured to stop the backlash 208 when torque 210 is applied to the downstream side 232. The wedge cam 224 may also be referred to as a stop cam or brake cam. The drive cam 214 and the wedge cam 224 create the split cam design of the brake system 204 according to an illustrative embodiment.
[0046] The wedge cam 224 comprises a first series of cutouts 234 with a curved surface 236. Instead of the wedge cam 224 having a substantially circular cross-section, the first series Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 15 / 71 11 / 21 of cutouts 234 is cut at equal intervals around the circumference of the cross-section of the wedge cam 224. The first series of cutouts 234 has a curved surface 236 so that an engagement angle for the plurality of cylindrical rollers 226 can be maintained.
[0047] In an illustrative embodiment, the engagement angle, also known as the wedge angle, influences the efficiency of the brake system 204. In an illustrative embodiment, the engagement angle can be, for example, without limitation, q=3°. In other illustrative embodiments, the engagement angle can be less than three degrees. In still other illustrative embodiments, the engagement angle can be greater than three degrees.
[0048] In this illustrative example, the plurality of cylindrical rollers 226 roller bearings employ long, thin cylindrical rollers. These rollers may resemble needles and may be referred to as needle rollers or needle bearings. The plurality of cylindrical rollers 226 may be two, three, or four times longer than their diameter or more.
[0049] The plurality of needle rollers 226 is positioned between the wedge cam 224 and the housing 212 and can be used to reduce friction between the wedge cam 224 and the housing 212 or between the drive cam 214 and the housing 212 when the system is moving (the input torque is greater than the output torque). However, the main purpose of the plurality of cylindrical rollers 226 is to prevent backlash 208. To prevent backlash 208, the plurality of cylindrical rollers 226 is configured to fit between the surface 238 of the wedge cam 224 and the housing 212 when torque 210 is applied to the downstream side 232 of the rotary actuator 202. Specifically, the plurality of cylindrical rollers 226 fits between the housing 212 and the curved surface 236 of the first series of cutouts 234 of the wedge cam 224. Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, p. 16 / 71 12 / 21
[0050] As represented, the drive cam 214 comprises a second series of cutouts 240. The second series of cutouts 240 in the drive cam 214 corresponds to the first series of cutouts 234 in the wedge cam 224. The plurality of cylindrical rollers 226 is positioned within the channels 242 through the rotary actuator 202 created by the first series of cutouts 234 and the second series of cutouts 240. In other words, the split cam design of the rotary actuator 202 comprises channels between the cams and the housing in which pairs of a plurality of cylindrical rollers 226 reside.
[0051] In this illustrative example, the plurality of cylindrical rollers 226 has a first pair of cylindrical rollers 244, a second pair of cylindrical rollers 246, and a third pair of cylindrical rollers 248. The first pair of cylindrical rollers 244 is positioned in the first groove 250 between the cams and the housing 212. The second pair of cylindrical rollers 246 is positioned in the second groove 252 between the cams and the housing 212. The third pair of cylindrical rollers 248 is positioned in the third groove 254 between the cams and the housing 212.
[0052] In some illustrative examples, there may be more or fewer pairs of cylindrical rollers. Similarly, more or fewer than three channels 242 may cut through the rotary actuator 202. In still other illustrative examples, more than two cylindrical rollers may be present in each channel, depending on the particular implementation.
[0053] The spring cage 228 is part of the brake system 204. The spring cage 228 is a spring that holds a pair of cylindrical rollers together in their respective channel. The spring cage 228 prevents play in the pair of cylindrical rollers. In other words, the spring cage 228 stabilizes the cylindrical rollers and reduces play or lost movement. A separate spring cage 228 is used for each pair of the plurality of cylindrical rollers 226. Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, p. 17 / 71 13 / 21
[0054] In this illustrative example, the plurality of bearings 230 is associated with at least one of the drive cam 214 and the wedge cam 224. The plurality of bearings 230 supports the cams and promotes smoother rotation of the cams within the housing 212. Any readily available bearing can be selected for use with an illustrative embodiment.
[0055] In these illustrative examples, the 204 brake system is devoid of friction plates. As a result, less heat is produced than with currently used systems and component wear can also be reduced.
[0056] In the operation of the brake system 204, torque 218 arrives via the upstream side 216 and causes rotation of the drive cam 214. It then transfers through a plurality of cylindrical rollers 226 and to the wedge cam 224 and out the downstream side 232 to move the wing flap 206. An additional actuator may be present between the brake system 204 and the wing flap 206 to apply gear reduction as needed. In this way, both the drive cam 214 and the wedge cam 224 will rotate. However, if the movement of the drive cam 214 is interrupted and torque 210 attempts to reverse the wedge cam 224, the plurality of cylindrical rollers 226 will move along the surface 238 of the wedge cam 224 until they are wedged between it and the housing 212, thus dumping the load onto the housing 212. As a result, the reverse 208 will be interrupted.
[0057] With an illustrative embodiment, the split cam design allows actuation of the upstream side 216 of the rotary actuator 202, but not the downstream side 232. The rotary actuator 202 with brake system 204 could be more compact than the systems currently used, therefore able to fit in more confined spaces of newly designed aircraft. The split cam design is Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 18 / 71 The 14 / 21 design is simpler, with fewer components, which simplifies assembly, machining, and so on. An illustrative embodiment also reduces system vibration compared to more traditional non-rebound brake systems.
[0058] Although the illustrative embodiments in Figure 2 have been described with reference to wing flap 206 on wing 104, rotary actuator 202 with brake system 204 can be configured for use with other systems on aircraft 100 or on other platforms. For example, without limitation, an illustrative embodiment can be configured for use with leading and / or trailing edge flaps and vanes, horizontal stabilizer disengagement actuators, folding wingtips, doors, or other suitable parts. The split cam design of an illustrative embodiment may be suitable for geared or even hydraulic rotary actuators.
[0059] With reference to Figure 3, an exploded view illustration of a rotary actuator and brake system is shown according to an illustrative embodiment. The components described in this document are examples of physical implementations of the rotary actuator 202 with brake system 204 shown in block form in Figure 2.
[0060] In this view, the split cam locking system 300 has drive cam 302, wedge cam 304, housing 306, cylindrical rollers (308, 310, 312, 314, 316, 318) and spring cages (320, 322, 324). These components represent examples of physical implementations for the brake system 204, drive cam 214, wedge cam 224, housing 212, plurality of cylindrical rollers 226 and spring cage 228 of Figure 2.
[0061] Returning now to Figure 4, an illustration of a drive cam is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. This view of the drive cam 302 is shown along Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 19 / 71 15 / 21 of lines 4-4 in Figure 3 on the drive cam side of the 300 split cam brake system.
[0062] In this illustrative example, the drive cam 302 has three cutouts evenly spaced around its circumference, cutout 400, cutout 402, and cutout 404. These cutouts (400, 402, 404) are examples of physical implementations for the second series of cutouts 240 shown in block form in Figure 2. These cutouts (400, 402, 404) may also be referred to as notches in these illustrative examples.
[0063] Cutout 400 creates channel 406 between the drive cam 302 and housing 306, where cylindrical roller 308 and cylindrical roller 310 are located. Cutout 402 creates channel 408 between drive cam 302 and housing 306, where cylindrical roller 312 and cylindrical roller 314 are located. Cutout 404 creates channel 410 between drive cam 302 and housing 306, where cylindrical roller 316 and cylindrical roller 318 are located.
[0064] As represented, the cylindrical rollers (308, 310) are separated within the channel 406 by the spring cage 320 to help stabilize the pair of cylindrical rollers and prevent backlash. Similarly, the cylindrical rollers (312, 314) are separated in the channel 408 by the spring cage 322 and the cylindrical rollers (316, 318) are separated in the channel 410 by the spring cage 324.
[0065] In this illustrative example, the input torque in the direction of arrow 412 enters the system through the drive cam 302 and transfers to the wedge cam 304, shown in more detail in Figure 5 and Figure 7. Only friction resists movement so that the drive cam 302 causes movement.
[0066] In Figure 5, an illustration of a wedge cam is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. This view of the wedge cam 304 is shown along lines 5-5 in Figure 3. Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 20 / 71 16 / 21 side of the wedge cam of the split cam brake system 300.
[0067] As shown in this view, the wedge cam 304 has cutouts (500, 502, 504) with a curved surface in each. These cutouts (500, 502, 504) are examples of physical implementations of the first series of cutouts 234 with curved surface 236 shown in block form in Figure 2. As depicted, the channel 406, channel 408, and channel 410 extend through the wedge cam 304 due to the shape and orientation of the cutouts (500, 502, 504). The central support shaft 506 runs through the center of the split cam brake system 300 to provide support while allowing independent rotation of the two cams.
[0068] With reference to Figure 6, another illustration of a wedge cam is shown according to an illustrative embodiment. Figure 6 shows what happens when the torque of movement in the direction of arrow 412 in Figure 4 stops.
[0069] In this illustrative example, the back torque in the direction of arrow 600 attempts to move the system. The cylindrical roller 308 fits between the surface of the wedge cam 304 and the housing 306. The back torque creates a force (Fcam) normal to the surface of the wedge cam 304, which is then resisted by the housing 306 so that the movement is stopped.
[0070] Figure 6B is a free-body diagram of a cylindrical roller represented according to an illustrative embodiment. The free-body diagram shown in this figure corresponds to the cylindrical roller 308 in Figure 6A when the output back torque is being applied to the system.
[0071] Returning now to Figure 7, an illustration of a cross-sectional view of a split cam rotary actuator and brake system is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. This cross-sectional view of rotary actuator 202 is taken along Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 21 / 71 17 / 21 of lines 7-7 in Figure 5.
[0072] In this example shown, torque is introduced from the upstream side 700, moves through the drive cam 302, through the cylindrical roller 308 and to the wedge cam 304, then exits from the downstream side 702. When the back torque comes from the downstream side 702, the system reacts as described in Figure 6.
[0073] As illustrated, the wedge cam 304 is associated with the output groove 704, which interfaces with a coupling component for the output force used to move the wing flap or other part. The input groove 705 coincides with the input components to drive the drive cam 302. The bearings (706, 708, 710) can also be seen in this view. These bearings are examples of physical implementations for the plurality of bearings 230 shown in block form in Figure 2.
[0074] The different components shown in Figure 1 and in Figures 3-7 can be combined with the components in Figure 2, used with the components in Figure 2, or a combination of both. Furthermore, some of the components in Figure 1 and Figures 3-7 can serve as illustrative examples of how the components shown in block form in Figure 2 can be implemented as physical structures.
[0075] Other configurations of the 300 split cam locking system may be implemented in addition to those shown in Figures 3-7. The configurations described in this document are not intended to be limiting as to the placement, orientation, type, or configuration of any component in the 300 split cam brake system. The 300 split cam locking system may be used with any platform, mobile or stationary, that uses rotary actuators.
[0076] With reference to Figure 8, an illustration of a Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 22 / 71 The flowchart 18 / 21 of a process for reducing backlash in a rotary actuator is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. The method represented in Figure 8 can be used to operate brake system 204 using brake system 204 in Figure 2.
[0077] The process begins by applying torque to an upstream side of a brake system to a rotary actuator (operation 800). Next, an actuating cam rotates within a housing on the upstream side of the brake system (operation 802). A wedge cam also rotates within the housing as the actuating cam rotates (operation 804). The torque applied to the upstream side of the brake system stops (operation 806). When the actuating cam stops rotating, back torque is applied to the downstream side of the brake system. In response, a plurality of cylindrical rollers engage between the wedge cam and the housing to prevent backflow (operation 808), with the process then ending.
[0078] Illustrative embodiments of the description can be further described in the context of aircraft manufacturing and maintenance method 900 as shown in Figure 9 and aircraft 1000 as shown in Figure 10. Going back first to Figure 9, an illustration of a block diagram of an aircraft manufacturing and maintenance method is represented according to an illustrative embodiment. During pre-production, aircraft manufacturing and maintenance method 900 may include specification and design 902 of aircraft 1000 in Figure 10 and material procurement 904.
[0079] During production, as shown in Figure 10, the manufacturing of components and sub-assemblies 906 and the integration of the aircraft system 908 1000 occur. After that, the aircraft 1000 in Figure 10 can undergo certification and delivery 910 in order to be put into service 912. While in service 912 for a customer, the aircraft 1000 in Figure 10 is scheduled for routine maintenance and service 914, Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 23 / 71 19 / 21 which may include modification, reconfiguration, renovation and other maintenance, service or inspection.
[0080] The split cam brake system 204 can be installed on an aircraft during component and sub-assembly manufacturing 906. In addition, the split cam brake system 204 can be fitted to the aircraft 1000 during routine maintenance and service 914 as part of a modification, reconfiguration or overhaul of the aircraft 1000 in Figure 10.
[0081] Each of the aircraft manufacturing processes and maintenance methods 900 may be performed or carried out by a system integrator, a third party, an operator, or some combination thereof. In these examples, the operator may be a customer. For the purposes of this description, a system integrator may include, without limitation, any number of aircraft manufacturers and core system subcontractors; a third party may include, without limitation, any number of vendors, subcontractors, and suppliers; and an operator may be an airline, a leasing company, a military entity, a maintenance organization, and so forth.
[0082] With reference now to Figure 10, an illustration of a block diagram of an aircraft is shown in which an illustrative embodiment can be implemented. In this example, aircraft 1000 is produced by aircraft manufacturing and maintenance method 900 in Figure 9 and may include structure 1002 with a plurality of systems 1004 and interior 1006. Examples of systems 1004 include one or more propulsion systems 1008, electrical systems 1010, hydraulic systems 1012 and environmental systems 1014. Any number of other systems may be included. Although an aerospace example is shown, different illustrative embodiments can be applied to other industries, such as the aerospace industry. Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 24 / 71 20 / 21 automotive.
[0083] The devices and methods incorporated in this document may be employed during at least one of the aircraft manufacturing and maintenance methods 900 in Figure 9. As an illustrative example, the components or subassemblies produced in component and subassembly manufacturing 906 in Figure 9 may be manufactured or fabricated in a manner similar to the components or subassemblies produced while the aircraft 1000 is undergoing maintenance 912 in Figure 9. As yet another example, one or more embodiments of devices, embodiments of methods, or a combination thereof may be used during the production stages, such as component and subassembly manufacturing 906 and system integration 908 in Figure 9.One or more embodiments of devices, embodiments of methods, or a combination thereof may be used while aircraft 1000 is undergoing maintenance 912, during maintenance and servicing 914, including inspection, as shown in Figure 9, or both. The use of a series of different illustrative embodiments may substantially speed up the assembly of aircraft 1000, reduce the cost of aircraft 1000, or both speed up the assembly of aircraft 1000 and reduce the cost of aircraft 1000.
[0084] In some alternative implementations of an illustrative embodiment, the function or functions observed in the blocks may occur out of the order shown in the figures. For example, in some cases, two blocks shown in succession may be executed substantially simultaneously, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved. In addition, other blocks may be added, in addition to the illustrated blocks, in a flowchart or block diagram. Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 25 / 71 21 / 21 The description of the different illustrative embodiments is presented for illustrative and descriptive purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments in the disclosed form. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Furthermore, different illustrative embodiments may provide different features compared with other desirable embodiments. The selected embodiment or embodiments are chosen and described in order to better explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application, and to enable others skilled in the art to understand the description for various embodiments with various modifications as appropriate to the particular use contemplated. Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 26 / 71
Claims
1 / 6 CLAIMS 1. Brake system (204) for rotary actuator (202) characterized in that it comprises: a housing (212); an actuating cam (214) within the housing (212) and associated with an upstream side of the brake system (204), wherein the actuating cam (214) is configured to rotate when torque is applied to the upstream side; a wedge cam (224) within the housing (212) and associated with a downstream side of the brake system (204), wherein the wedge cam (224) comprises a first series of cutouts (234), wherein each cutout (234) has a curved surface, and wherein the wedge cam (224) is configured to prevent backflow when torque is applied to the downstream side;and a plurality of cylindrical rollers (226) positioned in the first series of cutouts (234) between the wedge cam (224) and the housing (212), wherein each cylindrical roller (226) is configured to fit between a respective curved surface of each cutout (234) of the wedge cam (224) and the housing (212) when torque is applied to the downstream side.
2. Brake system (204), according to claim 1, characterized in that the first series of cutouts (234) is cut out at equal intervals around a circumference of the wedge cam (224).
3. Brake system (204), according to claim 2, characterized in that the drive cam (214) comprises: a second series of cutouts (240) corresponding to the first series of cutouts (234) in the wedge cam (224) such that channels (242) are formed between the drive cam (214) and the wedge cam (224), wherein a pair of cylindrical rollers (226) of the plurality of cylindrical rollers (226) is positioned within each channel (242) created by the first series of cutouts (234) and the second series of cutouts (240).
4. Brake system (204), according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of cylindrical rollers (226) comprises: a first pair of cylindrical rollers (244) positioned in a first channel (250) between the wedge cam (224) and the housing (212); a second pair of cylindrical rollers (246) positioned in a second channel (252) between the wedge cam (224) and the housing (212); and a third pair of cylindrical rollers (248) positioned in a third channel (254) between the wedge cam (224) and the housing (212).
5. Brake system (204), according to claim 4, characterized in that the brake system (204) comprises: a spring cage (228) associated with each pair of cylindrical rollers (226), and positioned in each cutout of the first series of cutouts (234).
6. Brake system (204), according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: a central support shaft (506) associated with the actuation cam (214).
7. Brake system (204), according to claim 6, characterized in that it further comprises: a plurality of bearings (230) associated with at least one of the actuating cam (214) and the wedge cam (224). Petition 870260026002, dated 20 / 03 / 2026, page 28 / 71 3 / 6 8. Brake system (204), according to claim 1, characterized in that the brake system (204) is devoid of friction plates.
9. Method for preventing backlash of a rotary actuator (202), characterized in that it comprises: applying torque to an upstream side of a brake system (204) on the rotary actuator (202); rotating an actuating cam (214) within a housing (212) on the upstream side of the brake system (204); rotating a wedge cam (224) within the housing (212) as the actuating cam (214) rotates, wherein the wedge cam (224) comprises a first series of cutouts (234), wherein each cutout (234) has a curved surface; stopping the torque applied to the upstream side of the brake system (204); fitting a plurality of cylindrical rollers (226) positioned in the first series of cutouts (234) between a respective curved surface of each cutout (234) of the wedge cam (224) and the housing (212) to prevent backflow of the brake system (204) when torque is applied to the downstream side of the brake system (224).
10. Method according to claim 9, characterized in that the drive cam (214) comprises: a second series of cutouts (240) corresponding to the first series of cutouts (234) in the wedge cam (224) such that channels (242) are formed between the drive cam (214) and the wedge cam (224), wherein the pair of cylindrical rollers (226) of the plurality of cylindrical rollers (226) is positioned within each channel (242) created by the first series of cutouts and the second series of cutouts.
11. Method according to claim 10, characterized in that it further comprises: Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, page 29 / 71 4 / 6 stabilizing the plurality of cylindrical rollers (226) with a spring cage (228).
12. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that the plurality of cylindrical rollers (226) comprises a first pair (244), a second pair (246) and a third pair (248) and further comprises: fitting at least one of each pair of cylindrical rollers (226) between a respective curved surface of each cutout (234) of the wedge cam (224) and the housing (212).
13. Method according to claim 9, characterized in that it further comprises: rotating a central support shaft (506) associated with the drive cam (214) when torque is applied to the upstream side of the brake system (204).
14. Aircraft characterized in that it comprises: a rotary gear actuator (202); and a brake system (204) for the rotary gear actuator (202) comprising: a housing (212); an actuating cam (214) within the housing (212) and associated with an upstream side of the brake system (204), wherein the actuating cam (214) rotates when torque is applied to the upstream side; a wedge cam (224) within the housing (212) and associated with a downstream side of the brake system (204), wherein the wedge cam (224) comprises a first series of cutouts (234), wherein each cutout has a curved surface (236) and wherein the wedge cam (224) prevents backsliding when torque is applied to the downstream side; and a plurality of cylindrical rolls (226) positioned Petition 870260026002, dated 20 / 03 / 2026, page.30 / 71 5 / 6 in the first series of cutouts (234) between the wedge cam (224) and the housing (212), wherein each cylindrical roller (226) fits between a respective curved surface (236) of each cutout of the wedge cam (224) and the housing (212) when torque is applied on the downstream side.
15. Aircraft according to claim 14, characterized in that the first series of cutouts (234) is cut out at equal intervals around a circumference of the wedge cam (224).
16. Aircraft according to claim 15, characterized in that the drive cam (214) comprises: a second number of cutouts (240) corresponding to the first series of cutouts (234) of the wedge cam (224), such that the plurality of cylindrical rollers (226) is positioned within the channels (242) created by the first series of cutouts (234) and the second series of cutouts (240).
17. Aircraft according to claim 14, characterized in that the plurality of cylindrical rollers (226) comprises: a first pair of cylindrical rollers (244) positioned in a first channel (250) between the wedge cam (224) and the housing (212); a second pair of cylindrical rollers (246) positioned in a second channel (252) between the wedge cam (224) and the housing (212); a third pair of cylindrical rollers (248) positioned in a third channel (254) between the wedge cam (224) and the housing (212); and a spring cage (228) associated with each pair of cylindrical rollers (226). Petition 870260026002, dated 20 / 03 / 2026, p. 31 / 71 6 / 6 18. Aircraft according to claim 17, characterized in that the rotary gear actuator (202) is configured to move a selected aircraft part of one of a leading-edge flap, a trailing-edge flap, a leading-edge vane, a trailing-edge vane, a horizontal stabilizer, a folding wingtip, or a door.
19. Aircraft, of claim 14, characterized in that the brake system (204) further comprises: a central support shaft (506) associated with the actuation cam (214).
20. Aircraft according to claim 19, characterized in that the brake system (204) further comprises: a plurality of bearings (230) associated with at least one of the actuating cam (214) and the wedge cam (224). Petition 870260026002, dated 03 / 20 / 2026, pp. 32 / 71