Actuator Arm Lock Ring for Fast Temporary Actuator Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanisms lack a reliable and efficient method for temporarily replacing failed linear actuators without requiring extensive disassembly or material-intensive solutions, which can be time-consuming and costly, especially in critical applications like aircraft systems.
Innovation Solution
The actuator arm lock system, comprising a lock ring with a circumferentially extending element and a locking element, allows for reversible configuration to clamp and secure the actuator arm in place, enabling temporary replacement without disconnection from the mechanism, using a locking mechanism that applies adjustable resistance to emulate the actuator's positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed dimension element is used to replace a failed actuator, then the mechanism can continue to operate, but the replacement process requires extensive disassembly and reassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator replacement system is segmented into modular components: the fixed dimension element (FDE) as a standalone replacement component, the actuator arm lock as a separate locking mechanism, and the latch elements that interface with the actuator body. This segmentation allows the FDE to be installed independently without requiring disassembly of the entire actuator assembly, enabling quick replacement while maintaining mechanism operation.
2Reliability
If traditional actuator replacement methods are used, then the actuator can be replaced, but material and fuel costs increase due to extensive disassembly and reassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator arm lock and latch elements are pre-configured and ready for installation before the actuator failure occurs. The locking mechanism is designed to be pre-assembled on the fixed dimension element, allowing it to be quickly engaged with the actuator body without requiring extensive on-site assembly operations that would consume additional materials and fuel.
3Strength
If the actuator arm lock is always in the locked configuration, then the actuator arm is securely held, but the lock ring cannot be installed or removed
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator arm lock employs a dynamic locking mechanism where the locking element can be reversibly reconfigured between locked and unlocked states. The circumferentially extending element is designed to be flexible enough to allow the locking element to move between configurations, enabling the lock ring to be installed and removed while maintaining secure holding when locked. This dynamic capability allows operators to easily install or remove the lock ring by simply changing the locking element's configuration.
Data Source
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AI summary
An actuator arm lock (28) suitable for use with an actuator (10) which has an actuator arm (14) and an actuator body (12) is disclosed. The actuator arm lock (28) comprises a lock ring (26) suitable for clamping around an actuator arm (14). The lock ring (26) comprises a circumferentially extending element (30) and a locking element (32). The circumferentially extending element (30) comprises first and second element ends (34, 36) and an inner surface (74) which faces towards the actuator arm (14) when the actuator arm lock (28) is in use, and the circumferentially extending element (30) is configured to partially extend around the actuator arm (14). The locking element (32) comprises first and second locking ends (44, 46) and is configured to extend at least between the first and second element ends (34, 36) of the circumferentially extending element (30). The first locking end (44) of the locking element (32) is engaged with or engageable with the first element end (34) of the circumferentially extending element (30), and the locking element (32) is engaged with or engageable with the second element end (36) of the circumferentially extending element (30). The locking element (32) may be reversibly reconfigured between a locked configuration in which the actuator arm lock (28) clamps onto the actuator arm (14), and an unlocked configuration in which the actuator arm lock (28) is loose on the actuator arm (14).