Electric Thrust Reverser Cowl Actuation Redundancy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thrust reverser systems in turbojet engines face reliability and availability issues due to the vulnerability of hydraulic and pneumatic actuation systems, which can lead to significant maintenance challenges and reduced operational safety, limiting their certification as a primary braking system.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an electrically actuated thrust reverser system with at least one cowl actuated by an electric motor connected to two separate electric power supplies, enhancing reliability through dual power supply redundancy and electrical synchronization, allowing for increased availability and reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders are used to actuate the movable cowls, then the thrust reverser can achieve reliable actuation, but the system requires significant maintenance due to leaks in the hydraulic or pneumatic network and the installation and protection of such circuits are particularly tricky and cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces hydraulic or pneumatic actuation systems with electric motors to drive the actuators that move the movable cowls. This substitution eliminates the need for hydraulic fluid or compressed air networks, thereby removing the associated maintenance issues related to leaks and complex circuit protection, while maintaining reliable actuation capability.
2Reliability
If a single electric power supply is used for the electric motor, then the system is simpler, but the reliability and availability of the thrust reverser system are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the single power supply system into two separate and independent electric power supplies. Each power supply is connected to the electric motor through separate control circuits, ensuring that a failure in one power supply or its control circuit does not prevent the thrust reverser from operating, as the other power supply can still drive the motor to actuate the movable cowls.
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 solution significantly increases the reliability and availability of the thrust reverser system, meeting stringent aeronautical certification standards by minimizing the risk of failure and ensuring consistent operation during braking assistance functions.
Implementation Method 1
at least one actuator able to be driven by at least one electric motor
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a thrust reversal device comprising at least one cowl arranged in such a way that it can be moved between a closed position and an open position, said cowl being actuated by at least one actuator that can be driven by at least one electric engine. The invention is characterised in that at least one electric engine is connected to at least two separate power supplies (7a, 7b).