Eccentric Actuator Connection for Thrust Reverser Anti-Buckling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thrust reversers for turbojet aircraft nacelles face challenges in reducing drag and mass while preventing actuator buckling, as current solutions either increase the actuator's section size or require bulky structures that complicate integration and increase weight.
Innovation Solution
A thrust reverser system with a radially eccentric third connection between the actuator and the fixed structure, allowing for predetermined radial movement, which reduces bending moments and enables standardization of actuators for multiple applications, thereby minimizing weight and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the actuator cross-section is increased to withstand bending forces, then the actuator strength is improved, but the mass of the thrust reverser increases
Solution Approach 1:
A guide structure is introduced as an intermediary element between the actuator and the nacelle structure. This guide structure absorbs and redirects the bending forces, allowing the actuator to maintain a lighter cross-section while the overall system withstands the applied loads through the guide structure's force distribution mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The solution moves from purely strengthening the actuator in one dimension (increasing cross-section) to a multi-dimensional approach where the guide structure provides lateral support and force redistribution, effectively adding a spatial dimension to the load-bearing path
2Stability of the object's composition
If a drive rod-slide system is used to limit actuator bending, then the actuator stability is improved, but the device complexity and mass increase
Solution Approach 1:
The guide structure is merged with existing structural elements of the thrust reverser system, such as the nacelle framework or actuator mounting points. This integration allows the guide function to be provided without adding separate, bulky components, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining actuator stability
Solution Approach 2:
The guide structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it guides the actuator movement, absorbs bending forces, and integrates with the existing structural framework. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated anti-buckling components, reducing complexity
3Length of moving object
If actuators pass through openings in the fixed structure, then the radial displacement is limited, but the structural section must be increased to accommodate the actuators
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: the guide structure provides localized radial constraint at critical points, while other portions of the structure maintain their original cross-section. This segmentation allows radial displacement limitation without requiring the entire fixed structure to be oversized
Data Source
Figure 1~2a
Figure 2b~4
Figure 5a~5b
AI summary
The present application relates to a thrust reverser (1) for a turbojet aircraft nacelle, comprising: - a fixed structure (10), - a mobile structure (11), - an actuator (2) extending along a main axis (A1) and connected by a first connection (P1) to the fixed structure (10) and by a second connection (P2) to the mobile structure (11) for deploying the mobile structure (11) between a direct jet position and a reverse jet position, the actuator (2) being further connected to the fixed structure (10) by a third connection (P3) arranged longitudinally between the first connection (P1) and the second connection (P2), characterised in that: the axis (A3) of the third connection (P3) is radially eccentric from the main axis (A1), and in that the third connection (P3) enables a predetermined movement of the actuator (2) relative to the fixed structure (10).