Integrated Cascade and VAFN Panel Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable area fan nozzle systems face challenges in efficiently adjusting the exhaust area of the bypass duct to optimize engine performance across different operating scenarios, such as take-off, climb, and descent, due to the complexity and space requirements of separate actuation systems and components.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a cascade-VAFN system, which includes a VAFN panel and actuation systems, allows for the translation of the cascade and VAFN panel forward and aft, dynamically adjusting the exhaust area of the bypass duct by combining the cascade array and VAFN panel into a single system, reducing space conflicts and enabling common actuation points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate actuation systems are used for VAFN panel and cascade, then each component can be actuated independently, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the VAFN panel and cascade into a single integrated assembly that is actuated by a common actuation system. The actuation system includes a actuator coupled to a common structure, with linkages that simultaneously move both the VAFN panel and cascade together, reducing the number of separate actuation systems while maintaining coordinated control of both components.
Solution Approach 2:
The common actuation system serves multiple functions by actuating both the VAFN panel and cascade through a single actuator. The linkage mechanism distributes the actuation force to both components, making the actuation system universal in its ability to control multiple elements simultaneously, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate actuation systems are used for VAFN panel and cascade, then each component can be controlled independently, but the functional space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the VAFN panel and cascade into an integrated assembly with a common actuation point. The linkage system allows both components to be controlled from a single actuator location, consolidating the functional space required for actuation and reducing the overall volume occupied by control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism is nested within the integrated assembly, with the linkages positioned between the actuator and the components they control. This nesting arrangement minimizes the external volume required for the actuation system while maintaining the capability to independently control both the VAFN panel and cascade.
3Volume of moving object
If integrated cascade-VAFN system is used, then space conflicts are reduced and common actuation points are enabled, but the aerodynamic performance optimization across different operating scenarios becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated cascade-VAFN system incorporates movable components that can adjust their positions relative to each other. The linkage mechanism allows for dynamic adjustment of the cascade and VAFN panel positions, enabling the system to adapt its configuration for different operating conditions such as take-off, climb, and descent, thereby maintaining aerodynamic performance optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables parameter changes by allowing the cascade and VAFN panel to be positioned at different configurations through the linkage mechanism. By varying the relative positions and angles of these components, the system can optimize aerodynamic parameters for different operating scenarios, maintaining versatility despite the integrated design.
Data Source
AI summary
A cascade-variable area fan nozzle system (the “CVAFN System”) is provided. The CVAFN system may comprise a cascade portion and a variable area fan nozzle (“VAFN”) portion. The VAFN portion may include a VAFN panel. The cascade and VAFN panel may be integrally formed with one another. The CVAFN system may include an actuation system (e.g., a jack screw) that is configured to translate the cascade and VAFN panel forward and aft. The cascade and VAFN panel may be translated aft in response to activation of the thrust reverser and/or CVAFN system.