Actuator Locking Device with Stress Limiter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking devices for actuators in the aeronautics industry are large, heavy, and have high rotor inertia, and they often experience rebound issues and inadequate protection against stress peaks, particularly when using pawl-based mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A locking device with an overcenter locking element and a stress limiter that clips stress peaks, featuring a torque limiter and locking elements that can lock the actuating element at any position, providing progressive locking and protection against jerks, and utilizing a solenoid for controlled locking and releasing states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a pawl-based locking mechanism is used, then the locking device can prevent rotation in one direction, but it produces rebound issues and stress peaks that harm the actuator components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a stress limiter positioned between the locking element and the actuating element that absorbs and limits stress peaks before they can damage actuator components. This cushioning mechanism prevents the harmful rebound effects that occur with traditional pawl-based systems by progressively engaging to clamp stress peaks during locking operations.
2Reliability
If a traditional locking device is used, then the actuating element can be locked in position, but the device becomes large and heavy with high rotor inertia
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is segmented into distinct functional components: a locking element for engagement, a stress limiter for stress management, and a solenoid for actuation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall mass while maintaining locking capability. The stress limiter specifically is designed to clip stress peaks without adding excessive weight.
3Device complexity
If a locking element is designed to lock at a specific tooth position, then the locking mechanism is simple, but it cannot lock the actuating element at any position
Solution Approach 1:
The locking element is designed with dynamic characteristics that allow it to engage with the actuating element at any position along its travel, not just at fixed discrete positions. The stress limiter works in conjunction with the locking element to maintain engagement stability across continuous positions, providing both simplicity and positional flexibility.
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 solution results in a compact, lightweight, and reliable locking system that effectively prevents accidental motion of movable elements, eliminating rebound issues and providing robust protection against stress peaks and jerks.
Implementation Method 1
a member for resiliently returning the locking device to the locking state thereof
Implementation Method 2
a member for controlling the locking device in the releasing state thereof
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an actuator comprising a stationary structure and an actuating element that is movable relative to the stationary structure, a device for locking the actuating element in position which is mounted on the stationary structure and has a state for locking and a state for releasing the actuating element. The locking device comprises, successively, a stress limiter and at least one locking element so arranged as to be butting against one surface of the actuating element, in order to oppose a motion of the actuating element in a predetermined direction. The actuator comprises a member for controlling the locking device in the releasing state thereof and a member for resiliently returning the locking device to the locking state thereof.