Electric Tertiary Lock for Thrust Reverser Load Path Strength
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tertiary lock systems for thrust reversers are heavy, complex, and challenging to integrate, with hydraulically actuated systems requiring extensive piping and hook-style systems providing a weaker load path.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, compact, and robust tertiary lock system using a linear electric motor or solenoid to translate a lock member between locked and unlocked positions, preventing unwanted deployment of thrust reversers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydraulically actuated lock systems are used, then the locking function is reliable, but the system becomes heavy and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hydraulic actuation system with an electric motor-driven mechanism. The lock member is actuated by an electric motor that converts electrical energy to mechanical motion, eliminating the need for hydraulic fluid, pumps, valves, and associated piping. This substitution maintains the reliable locking function while dramatically reducing system complexity and weight.
2Reliability
If hydraulically actuated lock systems are used, then the locking function is reliable, but the system weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric motor-driven lock mechanism replaces the heavy hydraulic system. Electric motors are significantly lighter than hydraulic systems of equivalent power output, as they eliminate the weight of hydraulic fluid, reservoirs, pumps, and control valves. This substitution maintains reliable actuation while reducing the lock system weight.
3Device complexity
If hook style locking members are used, then the locking mechanism is simple, but the load path strength is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is segmented into distinct functional components: the lock member with its blocking surface, the electric motor actuator, and the mounting structure. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function - the lock member provides a strong blocking surface that directly interrupts the movable component's path, creating a robust load path without the complexity of hook-style mechanisms.
4Weight of moving object
If electric motor actuation is used, then the system weight is reduced, but the integration complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electric motor is integrated directly into the lock member assembly, with the motor's output shaft directly coupled to the lock member. This merging of the actuator and locking mechanism into a single integrated unit simplifies installation and reduces the number of separate components that need to be assembled and connected, thereby reducing integration complexity despite the advanced actuation technology.
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 system provides a reliable and efficient means to prevent thrust reverser deployment, offering a lightweight and robust solution compared to traditional hydraulically actuated or hook-style systems.
Implementation Method 1
a linear electric motor for translating the lock member between the locked position and the unlocked position
Implementation Method 2
a solenoid for translating the lock member between the locked position and the unlocked position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A lock system (120) for an aircraft thrust reverser includes a lock member (122) translatable between a locked position, in which the lock member is extended for preventing deployment of the thrust reverser by the lock member blocking the path of a movable component (110) of the thrust reverser, and an unlocked position, in which the lock member is retracted for permitting deployment of the thrust reverser by the lock member moving out of the path of the movable component. The lock system also includes a linear electric motor (134, 126) or a solenoid for translating the lock member between the locked position and the unlocked position.