Thrust Reverser Actuator Fitting Load Path Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
The design of thrust reverser actuator systems for aircraft engines is hindered by the need for large and heavy torque boxes due to the large load transferred from the actuator, which complicates the aerodynamic structure and increases weight.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a thrust reverser actuator system fitting with a v-blade and track beam, where the actuator, v-blade, and track beam form a load path to the fan case, allowing for a more efficient transfer of loads and potentially reducing the size and weight of the torque box by distributing the load through a v-blade and track beam system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a traditional torque box structure is used to transfer actuator load, then the load transfer function is achieved, but the torque box becomes large and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The torque box structure is segmented into multiple functional components: track beam, thrust reverser actuator system fitting, and v-blade. Each component handles specific portions of the load transfer, allowing the system to achieve the required load transfer capability without requiring a single large, heavy torque box structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple components (track beam, actuator system fitting, and v-blade) are merged into an integrated load path system that collectively performs the load transfer function. This distributed architecture replaces the traditional monolithic torque box, reducing overall weight while maintaining load transfer capability.
2Force
If a traditional torque box structure is used to transfer actuator load, then the load transfer function is achieved, but the aerodynamic structure becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic structure is segmented into discrete, functionally-defined components (track beam with track, actuator system fitting, v-blade) that can be independently designed and optimized. This segmentation simplifies the overall aerodynamic structure compared to a complex monolithic torque box, while still achieving the required load transfer capability.
3Weight of stationary object
If load is distributed through track beam and v-blade system, then torque box size and weight are reduced, but the load path complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The track beam, actuator system fitting, and v-blade are merged into a coordinated load path system where each component's geometry and positioning are optimized to work together. This integration manages the complexity of the distributed load path while achieving weight reduction, as the components collectively perform the load transfer function more efficiently than a traditional torque box.
Data Source
AI summary
A thrust reverser actuator system fitting and a v-blade may be coupled to a track beam. A portion of the load between a translating sleeve and a fan case may be transmitted through the track beam. The thrust reverser actuator system fitting may comprise an integral v-blade.