Folding Wing Latch System with Non-Backdriveable Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for latching and locking folding wings in aircraft lack sufficient redundancy and reliability, particularly in ensuring the wings remain securely deployed and stowed, which affects aerodynamic efficiency and operational flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A latching system with non-backdriveable mechanical latch pin actuators, redundant locks, and a braking mechanism, coupled with a motor-driven system and sensors for precise control, ensures the folding sections are securely engaged and disengaged, providing multiple levels of redundancy for reliable deployment and stowage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single motor and actuator system is used for the latch mechanism, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability of wing deployment and stowage is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The latch mechanism is divided into multiple independent actuator systems (first actuator system and second actuator system), each capable of independently actuating the latch pin. This segmentation provides redundancy such that if one actuator fails, the other can still perform the latching function, thereby improving reliability without requiring a fully integrated complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates backup actuators and redundant mechanical locking features that engage before critical failure can occur. The system includes backup motors and actuators that remain in standby, ready to take over if the primary actuation system fails, providing a cushion against reliability issues before they manifest as operational failures.
2Reliability
If redundant actuators and backup systems are added to the latch mechanism, then the reliability of wing positioning is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the primary and backup actuator systems into a unified latch mechanism where both actuators work on the same latch pin through a common mechanical interface. This merging allows the redundant systems to be integrated rather than separate, reducing overall complexity while maintaining reliability benefits. The control system also merges monitoring and control functions for both actuators into a single coordinated system.
3Reliability
If mechanical locks and brakes are added to prevent accidental deployment, then the safety and reliability are improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical locks and brakes are designed as passive, self-actuating components that automatically engage when the wing reaches the deployed or stowed position, using the wing's own motion and gravity to activate the locking mechanism. This eliminates the need for additional active actuators to operate the locks, reducing weight while maintaining safety and reliability through automatic engagement.
Data Source
Figure 1~2B
Figure 3
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
A folding wing comprises a fixed section, a folding section, and a latch system for latching the folding section to the fixed section. The latch system includes a plurality of latch pins, and a corresponding plurality of non-backdriveable mechanical actuators for extending the latch pins to engage the folding section.