Aircraft Control Force Transmission with Redundant Coupling Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transmission devices for control forces in vehicles, particularly aircraft, are complex and costly, and lack necessary redundancy for reliable operation.
Innovation Solution
A transmission device with a coupling unit having adjustable force transmission points and actuators, allowing for redundancy by switching between different operational modes to maintain control force transmission even if one actuator fails, using a combination of electromechanical actuators and a movable coupling unit to ensure continuous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a tandem hydraulic cylinder is used to provide redundancy in aircraft control systems, then reliability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the redundant control system into two independent single-acting elements (first and second side elements) that can operate separately. Each side element has its own actuator and force transmission path, allowing one to fail independently without affecting the other. This segmentation provides redundancy while avoiding the complexity of a single complex tandem cylinder.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling unit is designed to be movable between different positions (first, second, and third positions) corresponding to different operational modes. This dynamic reconfiguration allows the system to switch between normal operation, single-side operation, and other operational states, providing adaptability and redundancy without permanent complex structural arrangements.
2Reliability
If a tandem hydraulic cylinder is used for redundancy, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the system into separate single-acting elements rather than using a complex tandem cylinder, the invention uses simpler, more standardized components that are easier and less expensive to manufacture. Each side element can be produced independently using conventional manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling unit serves multiple functions: it connects both side elements to the control component, enables switching between operational modes, and provides mechanical advantage for force transmission. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, lowering overall manufacturing cost.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the coupling unit is made movable to enable mode switching, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling unit is designed as a movable component that can be positioned in different locations along the control rod to achieve different operational modes. This dynamic positioning capability allows the system to adapt to different operational requirements (normal operation, single-side operation, etc.) using a relatively simple mechanical arrangement rather than multiple fixed complex systems.
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 provides a cost-effective and redundant control force transmission system that maintains control characteristics and deflection rates even if one actuator fails, ensuring safety and reliability in flight control systems.
Implementation Method 1
The element for altering the length is an actuator. The actuator is, for example, an electromechanical actuator.
Implementation Method 2
The first and the second side elements are each rotatably connected at one end to the first force transmission point
Data Source
AI summary
A control force transmission arrangement for an aircraft is provided. A transmission device has a first and a second force transmission point, and a coupling unit disposed between them. The coupling unit has a first and a second side element and a connecting element. The first and the second side elements are each connected to the first force transmission point and to the connecting element. At least the first side element has an element for altering the length of the side element. The second force transmission point is provided on the connecting element and is adjustable at least between a first and a second position.