Thrust Reverser Actuator Load Limiter Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thrust reverser actuator systems face risk of permanent damage due to sudden compressive loads during deployment failures or jamming, leading to costly repairs.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating load limiters in actuators to react excessive loads by applying a braking load to the actuator housing, reducing the risk of damage by limiting torque and compression.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a robust track lock is used to prevent unintended deployment, then reliability is improved, but the risk of sudden compressive loads damaging actuators increases when the lock fails to release or becomes jammed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates torque limiter devices in each actuator that are pre-configured to limit the torque transmitted to the actuator motor when excessive compressive loads occur. This beforehand cushioning protects the actuator components from damage during failure scenarios such as track lock jamming or unintended deployment attempts, allowing the system to withstand such events without permanent damage to the actuators
2Strength
If torque limiter devices are incorporated in actuators to limit excessive torque, then actuator protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The torque limiter device acts as an intermediary component between the actuator motor and the thrust reverser cowl. It selectively transmits torque under normal operating conditions while limiting torque when excessive compressive loads occur, thereby protecting the actuator motor and other components without requiring fundamental changes to the overall actuator system architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The torque limiter device is designed as a sacrificial component that can be relatively easily replaced compared to the actuator motor and other expensive components. By incorporating this simpler, more replaceable protective device, the system can withstand failure events without requiring replacement of costly actuator components, effectively managing complexity through strategic component design
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The load limiter arrangement effectively reduces the risk of actuator damage by distributing excessive loads through the housing, preventing buckling and extending the lifespan of the actuators.
Implementation Method 1
a load limiter operable to apply a braking load to the actuator member to resist rotation
Data Source
AI summary
A thrust reverser drive arrangement is described for use in driving a thrust reverser cowl for movement relative to first and second guide tracks, the drive arrangement comprising a first actuator located, in use, close to the first guide track, and a second actuator located, in use, close to the second guide track, the actuators being arranged to be driven in synchronism and at the same speed by a drive motor to drive the cowl for movement, wherein at least one of the first and second actuators is provided with a load limiter to limit the transmission of loads through that actuator in the event that that actuator is subject to a compressive loading greater than a predetermined level.