Asymmetry Brake Torque Limiting Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern systems, such as aircraft wing flap drive systems, require precise control to prevent shaft rotation when a disconnect or break is detected, but existing brake technologies lack efficient mechanisms to manage torque and ensure reliable braking.
Innovation Solution
An electric fail-safe brake system with a ball ramp mechanism that engages stationary and rotating disks to apply braking force, featuring a keeper to limit torque and a test switch for verifying proper function, allowing for controlled shaft rotation prevention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an electric fail-safe brake is used to stop shaft rotation when disconnect is detected, then shaft rotation can be halted effectively, but the brake applies excessive torque that can damage the system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the torque parameter from uncontrolled high torque to controlled limited torque by introducing a torque limiting mechanism. The brake is designed to apply only the necessary amount of torque to halt shaft rotation, preventing damage to connected components while maintaining reliable rotation control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a torque limiting mechanism as an intermediary between the brake and the shaft system. This intermediary component regulates the torque transmission, allowing the brake to stop shaft rotation effectively while preventing excessive torque from reaching and damaging other system components.
2Reliability
If a brake system is added to prevent shaft rotation, then shaft control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the brake system with the existing shaft and connector components into an integrated assembly. The brake, shaft, and torque limiting mechanism are merged into a single coordinated system, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall structure while maintaining reliable shaft rotation control.
3Strength
If torque limiting is implemented to protect system components, then component durability is improved, but the brake effectiveness may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent carefully adjusts the torque limiting parameter to fall within an optimal range that simultaneously protects components and maintains brake effectiveness. The torque limit is set high enough to stop shaft rotation reliably but low enough to prevent damage to connected components, achieving both goals through precise parameter optimization.
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 effectively prevents further shaft rotation by managing torque and providing a reliable braking mechanism, ensuring system stability and safety by detecting disconnects and applying precise braking forces.
Implementation Method 1
the second ramp forces stationary brake disks to engage rotating brake disks which rotate with a shaft to cause braking of the shaft
Data Source
AI summary
An electric fail-safe is operable to move a first ramp between distinct positions. The first ramp is associated with the second ramp. There are balls intermediate the first and second ramps. When the electric fail-safe brake is in an actuated condition, the second ramp forces stationary brake disks to engage rotating brake disks which rotate with a shaft to cause braking of the shaft. There is a keeper associated with the second ramp which abuts a stop surface to limit the amount of torque applied to the rotary and stationary disks after a predetermined amount of braking force has occurred. A brake with a test switch is also disclosed.