Aircraft Thrust Reverser Actuator Multi-Stage Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thrust reverser actuation systems in aircraft face challenges with vibrations or 'flutter' during deployment, which can affect the smooth operation and efficiency of thrust reversers, particularly when transitioning between stages of actuation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-stage actuation system with a lock system that selectively locks different members during each stage, utilizing a stored energy device with a resilient member and fluid chambers to build and release energy, reducing vibrations and providing a variable driving force, and lubricating fluid to enhance movement and reduce flutter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-stage actuation system is used, then the structure is simple, but vibrations or flutter occur during deployment affecting smooth operation
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation system is divided into two distinct stages: a first stage for initial deployment and a second stage for final positioning. The lock system segments the actuation process by selectively locking different member pairs at different stages, allowing controlled energy release and reducing vibrations that would occur in a single-stage system.
2Reliability
If a multi-stage actuation system with lock system is used, then vibrations are reduced and smooth operation is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lock system combines multiple locking functions into a single integrated mechanism that can selectively lock different member pairs (first member to second member, or second member to third member) based on actuation stage. This merging approach reduces the overall complexity compared to having separate locking mechanisms for each stage while still achieving vibration reduction and smooth operation.
3Power
If energy is built up during first stage actuation, then maximum energy output is available at transition, but the stored energy device requires additional space and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The stored energy device automatically builds up energy during the first stage of actuation as members move relative to each other, and automatically releases this energy at the transition to the second stage. The system self-regulates the energy storage and release process without requiring external control mechanisms, reducing the complexity of the energy management system while maximizing power output when needed.
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 system achieves reduced vibrations and improved deployment efficiency by maximizing energy output at the transition between stages, ensuring smooth operation and minimizing energy loss during high-load conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The stored energy device may comprises a resilient member. During the first stage of actuation the resilient member may be compressed to increase the energy within the resilient member, and during the second stage of actuation the resilient member may be decompressed to decrease the energy within the resilient member.
Implementation Method 2
lubricating fluid to enhance movement and reduce flutter
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided an actuator for an aircraft thrust reverser, comprising a first member, a second member movable relative to the first member, a third member movable relative to the first member and the second member, and a lock system configured to selectively lock the second member to the third member in a first stage of actuation, and the first member to the second member in a second, separate stage of actuation.