Aircraft Drive Shaft Misalignment Detection via Radial Play
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive systems for high lift aircraft systems face challenges in reliably detecting misalignment between transmission shafts and openings without requiring additional dedicated sensors, which can lead to operational issues and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of first and second engaging elements that protrude radially into and out of the opening, respectively, to engage and arrest the transmission shaft in case of misalignment, allowing for detection through rotational sensors and preventing further rotation, thereby maintaining mechanical power transfer to high lift surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dedicated sensors are added to detect misalignment, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission shaft itself serves as the detection mechanism through its radial play and engaging elements. The shaft's own mechanical characteristics (radial play, engaging elements) enable misalignment detection without requiring external dedicated sensors, thus maintaining system simplicity while achieving detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The radial play and engaging elements act as intermediaries between the transmission shaft and the detection system. These elements translate misalignment into detectable mechanical engagement or disengagement, enabling indirect detection through existing mechanical components rather than direct sensor measurement
2Adaptability or versatility
If radial play is increased to allow misalignment, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static fixed-fit connection to a dynamic system with controlled radial play. The radial play allows the transmission shaft to dynamically adjust its position within the opening, accommodating misalignment while maintaining functional connection through the engaging elements
Solution Approach 2:
The radial play parameter is explicitly introduced to change the fit tolerance between the transmission shaft and opening. This parameter change allows controlled movement and misalignment accommodation while the engaging elements maintain the functional relationship, effectively decoupling alignment precision from adaptability
3Reliability
If engaging elements are added to prevent further rotation, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The engaging elements are merged with the existing transmission shaft and opening structures. The first engaging element is integrated into the transmission shaft while the second engaging element is integrated into the opening, combining the protective function with existing components rather than adding separate protective devices
Solution Approach 2:
The engaging elements are pre-positioned within the opening and on the transmission shaft before operation. When misalignment occurs, these pre-positioned elements automatically engage to prevent further rotation, providing immediate protective action without requiring additional control systems or active components
Data Source
AI summary
An arresting apparatus for arresting a rotational motion of two components relative to each other is provided. The arresting apparatus includes a first arresting means having a longitudinal axis and at least one first engaging element, and a second arresting means having an opening and at least one second engaging element. In a first mode of operation, the first arresting means extends through a first section of the opening of the second arresting means such that it is freely rotatable and the first engaging element and the second engaging element are distanced from each other. In a second mode of operation, the first arresting means is misaligned and extends through a second section of the opening of the second arresting means such that the first engaging element and the second engaging element engage and arrest the first arresting means relative to the second arresting means.