Movable Cascade Thrust Reverser Actuator Layout Beyond FBO Deformation Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of actuators and support means for movable cascade thrust reversers in aircraft propulsion units is complicated by the limited space available and the need to avoid placing them around parts of the fan casing that deform in accidental situations, such as a Fan Blade Out (FBO) event.
Innovation Solution
An optimized actuator and support device installation that travels upstream under the actuator, using the deflection edge and/or intermediate casing outer shell as connection points, allowing the actuator support device to guide the vanes during movement and avoiding deformation-prone areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If actuators are installed in the conventional location around the fan casing, then the installation is straightforward, but the actuators would be placed in areas subject to deformation during FBO events
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is extracted from the conventional location around the fan casing and relocated to a position downstream of the intermediate casing outer shell, removing it from the deformation-prone zone during FBO events while maintaining its functional capability
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediate casing outer shell serves as an intermediary structure that transfers the actuator's force to the deflection edge, enabling the actuator to be positioned away from both the fan casing (avoiding deformation zones) and while still effectively controlling the cascade vanes
2Reliability
If the actuator support device is positioned to avoid deformation zones, then structural integrity is maintained, but the space available for installation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator support device utilizes the axial dimension by extending downstream beyond the intermediate casing outer shell, transforming a two-dimensional space constraint into a three-dimensional solution that provides adequate installation space while maintaining distance from deformation zones
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator support device is designed as a movable structure that can adapt its position and configuration to optimize both the available installation space and the distance from deformation-prone areas during different operational states
3Reliability
If the actuator support device is relocated downstream, then it avoids deformation-prone areas, but the force transfer path becomes longer
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator support device employs a curved or angled structural configuration that optimizes the force transfer path, reducing the effective length and improving structural efficiency compared to a straight axial extension
Data Source
AI summary
A propulsion assembly for an aircraft equipped with a thrust reverser comprising an actuator for moving a movable structure between an advanced direct thrust position and a retracted thrust reversal position, the propulsion assembly further comprising an actuator support device equipped with a first connecting part for connecting it to the deflection edge and/or to the outer shell of the intermediate casing, with a second connecting part for connecting it to a body of the actuator, and with a central part running axially between the shell and the actuator. Moreover, the actuator support device forms a guide for a set of cascades of the movable structure.