Dual-Drive Vehicle Control Surface Arrangement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive arrangements for aircraft control surfaces lack redundancy in case of malfunction or failure, relying on a single drive mechanism that can lead to loss of control if it fails.
Innovation Solution
A dual-drive arrangement with selective engagement and disengagement mechanisms, including Hirth joints, friction clutches, epicyclic gearboxes, and torque arms, allows for redundancy by enabling either drive to take over in case of failure, ensuring continuous control surface manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single drive mechanism is used to manipulate flight control surfaces, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates due to lack of redundancy in case of drive failure
Solution Approach 1:
The drive system is segmented into multiple independent drive mechanisms (first drive and second drive) that can operate separately. Each drive has its own engaging means (first engaging means and second engaging means) that can selectively connect to the output member, allowing one drive to take over if the other fails, thus improving reliability without requiring a completely complex integrated system
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the drive system have specialized functions: the first drive and second drive provide redundant power sources, the engaging means provide selective connection capability, and the bearings provide localized rotational support. This division of local qualities allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while contributing to overall system reliability
2Reliability
If redundant drive mechanisms are added to provide backup capability, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional engaging means and mounting components
Solution Approach 1:
The first drive and second drive are merged in their mounting location on the common output member and their supporting structure. Both drives share the same bearing support system and housing structure, which reduces the overall complexity compared to having completely separate mounting systems. The engaging means are also integrated into a coordinated system where activation of one automatically or manually disengages the other
Solution Approach 2:
The bearing arrangement serves multiple functions: it supports both the first drive and second drive, provides rotational movement for both drives, and enables the selective engagement/disengagement mechanism. The output member universally receives torque from either drive through the engaging means, making the system multi-functional while reducing component count
3Ease of operation
If drives are mounted on bearings to enable rotational movement, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional mounting components
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing-mounted drives automatically enable rotational movement and engagement/disengagement operations without requiring additional actuators or complex control mechanisms. The bearings self-service by providing the necessary rotational support and alignment, reducing the need for extra operational components while maintaining ease of operation
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 dual-drive arrangement provides reliable operation by allowing seamless transition from one drive to another in case of failure, maintaining control surface functionality and optimizing performance through selective use of different torque profiles.
Implementation Method 1
the first drive and the second drive are mounted on bearings
Data Source
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AI summary
A drive arrangement for manipulating a vehicle control surface, comprises: a first drive; a second drive; an output member for connecting to the vehicle control surface; first engaging means for selectively engaging and disengaging the first drive and the output member; and second engaging means for selectively engaging and disengaging the second drive and the output member, wherein the first drive and the second drive are mounted on bearings.