Inflatable Thrust Reverser Barrier for Lighter Nacelle Airflow Deflection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft thrust reversal devices with rigid gates and connecting rods are heavy, increasing energy consumption and mass, and are not suitable for annular ducts with large cross-sections.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of inflatable barriers that transition from a deflated, flexible state to a deployed, rigid or semi-rigid state, eliminating the need for articulations and connecting rods, and utilizing a holding system with flexible links and pulleys to maintain the barriers in position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid gates and connecting rods are used in thrust reversal devices, then structural strength and reliability are improved, but device mass and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier undergoes a parameter change from flexible (deflated) to rigid (inflated) state. When deflated, the barrier is flexible and can be stored compactly. When inflated with fluid, it becomes rigid and semi-rigid to withstand airflow forces. This dynamic parameter change allows the barrier to achieve structural strength only when needed, significantly reducing the overall device mass compared to permanently rigid structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses pneumatic inflation to deploy the barrier. A fluid supply system delivers pressurized fluid to inflate the barrier, transforming it from a flexible storage state to a rigid operational state. This pneumatic mechanism replaces heavy mechanical components like connecting rods and hinges, achieving both structural strength and mass reduction.
2Reliability
If rigid gates and connecting rods are used in thrust reversal devices, then structural strength is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates complex mechanical components such as connecting rods, hinges, and articulations from the thrust reversal device. By using an inflatable barrier that can self-support when inflated, the design removes the need for these auxiliary mechanical parts, significantly simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining structural strength during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier's physical state changes from flexible to rigid through inflation, allowing it to perform structural functions without requiring complex mechanical support systems. This parameter transformation enables the barrier to replace entire assemblies of mechanical components with a single inflatable element.
3Reliability
If traditional rigid structures are used, then airflow diversion effectiveness is maintained, but mass and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier dynamically changes its rigidity parameter based on operational requirements. During normal flight, it remains deflated and flexible, minimizing drag and energy consumption. During thrust reversal, it inflates to become rigid, ensuring effective airflow diversion. This on-demand rigidity optimization reduces overall energy consumption compared to permanently rigid structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier transitions from a static rigid structure to a dynamic system that can change its physical state. It is flexible during cruise to minimize interference with airflow, then becomes rigid during thrust reversal to effectively divert airflow. This dynamic adaptability optimizes energy consumption across different flight phases while maintaining airflow diversion effectiveness when needed.
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
Reduces onboard mass and energy consumption by using lighter inflatable barriers that deploy without hinges or rods, while maintaining effective airflow diversion.
Implementation Method 1
at least one barrier (66) is inflatable and configured to occupy a deflated state, in the folded position, in which the barrier is flexible, and an inflated state, in the deployed position, in which the barrier is substantially rigid or semi-rigid
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~7
Figure 8~10(C)
AI summary
The invention relates to an aircraft propulsion system equipped with a thrust reverser device (60) comprising: - at least one lateral opening (64), passing through the nacelle (48) of the propulsion system, configured to occupy an open or closed state; - at least one inflatable barrier (66) configured to occupy a deflated state in which the barrier (66) does not protrude into an annular duct (50) channeling an airflow (52), and an inflated state in which the barrier (66), substantially rigid or semi-rigid, is deployed and extends across the annular duct (50) to deflect at least a portion of the airflow (52) towards the lateral opening (64); - at least one supply system (98) configured to supply fluid to the inflatable barrier (66). The invention also relates to an aircraft comprising at least one such propulsion system.