Helicopter Tail Folding System with Spherical Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current helicopter tail folding systems face issues with misalignment, low reliability, limited flexibility, and frequent maintenance due to the use of traditional face gear couplings, which hinder efficient folding and unfolding processes.
Innovation Solution
A helicopter tail folding system featuring a dual shaft configuration with gear form couplings that allow for spherical and linear movement, a centralized pin system for easy access during maintenance, and a support structure that includes a nut and pin arrangement to facilitate flexible transitions between active and passive modes, along with a sealing element to protect against environmental factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional face gear coupling is used for tail folding system, then power transmission connection is achieved, but misalignment and low reliability occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs spherical movement capability in the coupling mechanism, allowing the coupling to rotate and align itself spherically during folding operations. This curved movement path compensates for misalignment issues and maintains reliable power transmission connection throughout the folding cycle.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism changes its operational parameters dynamically - transitioning between engaged and disengaged states, and allowing spherical rotation during folding. This parameter change enables the system to adapt to different positional requirements while maintaining connection integrity.
2Ease of repair
If traditional coupling mechanism is used, then power transmission is maintained, but maintenance intervals are short and accessibility is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system is segmented into modular components that can be independently accessed and maintained. The tail folding mechanism is divided into discrete sections with the coupling positioned for optimal accessibility, allowing maintenance personnel to service individual components without disassembling the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism incorporates features that facilitate self-maintenance and easy re-engagement. The design allows for quick inspection and minor adjustments without requiring specialized tools or extensive disassembly, extending maintenance intervals through improved serviceability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rigid coupling connection is used, then power transmission efficiency is maintained, but flexibility during folding is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic system that adapts its degrees of freedom based on operational mode. During folding, the coupling allows spherical rotation and movement; during power transmission, it establishes a rigid engaged connection. This dynamic behavior provides both flexibility and power transmission efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism serves multiple functions: power transmission, folding movement, and alignment adjustment. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mechanisms for each operation, providing both flexibility during folding and rigid connection for power transmission through a single integrated system.
Data Source
AI summary
A tail located on a helicopter has a front area located on the tail, a rear area connected to the front area in a foldable manner around the axis, and a first shaft at the front area and a second shaft at the rear area allows power transfer to the tail rotor throughout the flight movement of the helicopter. A first coupling and a second coupling are located on the first shaft in a gear form. A first hub on the first shaft surrounds the first coupling and is form-compatible with the first coupling to allow the first coupling to perform at least partially a spherical rotational movement, and a second hub form-compatible with the second coupling located on the second shaft opposite the second coupling.