Bi-Modal Locking Mechanism with Coaxial Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional locking mechanisms for aircraft landing gear and doors lack effective redundancy and alternative solutions for reliable engagement and release, particularly in cases where hydraulic actuators fail.
Innovation Solution
A bi-modal locking mechanism that utilizes both hydraulic and electronic actuators coaxially with a mechanical detent, allowing for selective engagement and release of the locking member, with a spring release mechanism for self-reset operation without requiring hydraulic or electric power, and a compact design that simplifies manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a hydraulic actuator is used for locking and releasing the landing gear, then the locking mechanism can be operated with sufficient force, but the system becomes vulnerable to hydraulic failure and loses redundancy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a hydraulic actuator and an electronic actuator into a single integrated locking mechanism, allowing either actuator to independently perform the locking and releasing functions. This merging provides redundancy while maintaining the necessary actuating force, as the electronic actuator can compensate for hydraulic failures.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed to be universally operable by multiple actuation modes (hydraulic and electronic), enabling the same mechanism to function reliably under different operational conditions and power sources, thereby enhancing system redundancy and reliability.
2Reliability
If a mechanical cable and lever are used for emergency release, then redundancy is provided, but the mechanical complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the emergency release function into the existing hydraulic actuator assembly by providing an electronic actuator that integrates with the same mechanical linkage and detent mechanism. This eliminates the need for separate mechanical cables and levers, reducing overall mechanical complexity while maintaining redundancy.
Solution Approach 2:
The electronic actuator is positioned within or adjacent to the hydraulic actuator assembly, nesting the redundant electronic release mechanism within the existing structural envelope. This allows the emergency release function to be incorporated without significantly increasing the overall device footprint or mechanical complexity.
3Reliability
If a bi-modal actuator system is implemented, then redundancy and reliability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic and electronic actuators are merged into a single integrated assembly that shares common mechanical components including the detent mechanism, linkage, and mounting structure. This merging approach provides redundant actuation capability while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity through component sharing.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism is designed as a universal system that can be actuated by either hydraulic or electronic means, with both actuators interfacing with the same mechanical detent and linkage system. This multi-functionality approach enhances reliability through redundancy while avoiding the complexity of separate independent mechanisms.
4Length of moving object
If the actuator stroke is reduced for compact design, then the mechanical stroke requirement is minimized, but the actuating force may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an electronic actuator that uses electromagnetic or electric motor principles to generate sufficient force over a reduced stroke distance. This substitution of mechanical actuation with electronic actuation enables compact stroke length while maintaining the necessary actuating force through higher force density characteristics of electronic actuators.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism utilizes a detent mechanism that requires only a small stroke to transition between locked and unlocked states. By changing the mechanical parameters of the detent geometry and engagement characteristics, the system achieves reliable locking with minimal actuator stroke, and the electronic actuator compensates for the reduced stroke by providing higher force density.
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
Provides a redundant and efficient locking and unlocking operation with low power and mechanical stroke requirements, ensuring reliable operation and compact construction, and allows for assured self-reset without power sources.
Implementation Method 1
a spring release or other means that are attached to the locking member to movably engage or release a movable member
Implementation Method 2
a hydraulic actuator component of the locking mechanism engages a locking member
Implementation Method 3
a coupled electronic actuator component arranged coaxially with the hydraulic actuator component is used to engage the locking member
Data Source
AI summary
A locking mechanism includes a hydraulic actuator component and an electronic actuator component that are arranged coaxially, each of the actuator components being arranged to control a locking member that retains a movable component. In one version, each of the actuator components can individually engage a mechanical detent to enable unlocking of the movable component, for use, for example, in an uplock mechanism for aircraft.