Elastic Coupler Thrust Reverser Cowl Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
The coupling mechanism of thrust reverser cowl and variable section nozzle in aircraft turbojet engines is complex, leading to reliability issues and wear due to the high number of parts and uncoupling jerks, which complicates the alignment and synchronization process.
Innovation Solution
The thrust reverser incorporates an elastic coupler with an actuating rod and a damping device, eliminating the need for control means and synchronization devices, allowing the cowl and nozzle to move smoothly between positions using an elastic return and abutment system, and a damping fluid to reduce jerks during transitions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a coupling mechanism with control means and synchronization devices is used to connect the thrust reverser cowl and variable section nozzle, then the alignment and synchronization between cowl and nozzle can be achieved, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to high number of parts and uncoupling jerks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complex control means and synchronization devices from the coupling mechanism, retaining only the essential elastic coupler and damping device. This extraction of unnecessary components directly reduces the number of parts while maintaining the required alignment and synchronization functionality through the elastic elements alone.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic coupler and damping device automatically perform the alignment and synchronization functions without requiring external control means. The elastic elements self-adjust to maintain proper positioning of the cowl relative to the nozzle, and the damping device automatically reduces jerks during uncoupling, eliminating the need for complex control systems.
2Manufacturing precision
If a coupling mechanism with control means and synchronization devices is used to connect the thrust reverser cowl and variable section nozzle, then the alignment and synchronization between cowl and nozzle can be achieved, but the reliability decreases due to uncoupling jerks and wear
Solution Approach 1:
The damping device is incorporated into the coupling mechanism to beforehand cushion and absorb the jerks that occur during uncoupling of the cowl and nozzle. This preventive measure protects the mechanical components from shock loads and reduces wear, thereby improving reliability while maintaining the alignment and synchronization precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic coupler and damping device automatically perform the alignment and synchronization functions without requiring external control means. The elastic elements self-adjust to maintain proper positioning of the cowl relative to the nozzle, and the damping device automatically reduces jerks during uncoupling, eliminating the need for complex control systems.
3Device complexity
If the elastic return and abutment device is calibrated to oppose relative displacement when the cowl is unlocked, then the system simplifies and wear reduces, but the displacement of the actuating rod relative to the cowl is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The elastic return and abutment device is calibrated to provide dynamic resistance to the actuating rod's displacement. When the cowl is unlocked, the elastic elements oppose relative displacement, allowing the system to maintain simplicity while still permitting controlled movement. The elastic properties enable the rod to displace as needed while the cowl remains stable relative to the nozzle.
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
This design simplifies the system, reduces wear, and enhances reliability by eliminating the need for complex alignment and synchronization, while damping fluid minimizes jerks during position changes, resulting in a more compact and efficient thrust reverser.
Implementation Method 1
a damping device having a damping fluid, for reducing jerks during the displacement of the cowl and the nozzle
Implementation Method 2
a damping device having a damping fluid, for reducing jerks during the displacement of the cowl and the nozzle
Implementation Method 3
an elastic return and abutment device which are supported by the body of the coupler and which cooperate with the actuating rod in order to elastically return the nozzle to the neutral position thereof
Data Source
AI summary
A thrust reverser for a nacelle of an aircraft turbojet engine includes at least one movable thrust reverser cowl, a means for locking the cowl, a variable section outlet nozzle, and at least one actuator including an actuator rod. The thrust reverser is provided with a resilient coupler comprising a body which is rigidly connected to the thrust reverser cowl and a resilient return and abutment device that engages with the actuating rod of the actuator such as to resiliently return the nozzle to a neutral position. The return device is calibrated such that, when the cowl is unlocked, the return device opposes the relative movement of the actuating rod relative to the cowl, such as to enable the movement of the cowl and the nozzle, and when the cover is locked, the actuator drives the actuating rod against the return device to enable the movement of the nozzle.