Integrated Screw Actuation in Aircraft Nacelle Track Beams
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional translating sleeve actuation systems in thrust reversers disrupt the aerodynamic profile and structural integrity of aircraft nacelles, reducing efficiency and requiring additional structural supports that increase weight and reduce flow area.
Innovation Solution
Integration of an actuation system within the track beam and nut of the thrust reverser, utilizing a motor-driven screw to translate the sleeve, which minimizes friction and eliminates the need for external actuators, creating a continuous cascade structure and enhancing aerodynamics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional external actuators are used to translate the sleeve, then the actuation function is achieved, but the aerodynamic profile is disrupted and structural integrity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation system is merged with the track beam structure. The motor is integrated into the track beam, and the screw mechanism is incorporated within the existing structural components, eliminating the need for separate external actuators and preserving the aerodynamic profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The track beam serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, guides the translating sleeve, and houses the motor-driven screw mechanism for actuation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate actuators and maintains the aerodynamic shape.
2Ease of operation
If traditional actuators and support structures are installed, then the translating sleeve can be actuated, but the weight of the nacelle increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor is combined with the track beam structure, eliminating the need for separate actuator assemblies. The screw mechanism is integrated within the existing structural components, reducing the total weight of the nacelle while maintaining translation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The track beam is designed to perform both structural support and actuation functions through the integrated motor and screw mechanism, eliminating the need for additional dedicated actuator components and reducing overall weight.
3Ease of operation
If external actuators are used, then the sleeve can be translated, but the flow area is reduced due to additional structural supports
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation mechanism is merged within the existing track beam and nut structure, eliminating the need for external actuator assemblies that would obstruct the flow path. The continuous cascade structure is preserved without interruptions from separate support structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The track beam structure serves as both the guide mechanism and the actuation system housing, eliminating the need for additional external support structures that would reduce the flow area. The design maintains a continuous cascade structure.
4Ease of operation
If traditional multi-component actuation systems are used, then the translating sleeve can be actuated, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The motor, screw mechanism, and track beam are merged into an integrated assembly. The motor is mounted directly on the track beam, and the screw is incorporated within the nut structure, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The track beam performs multiple functions including structural support, guidance, and housing the actuation mechanism, eliminating the need for separate actuator components and reducing overall system complexity.
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 reduces the weight and complexity of the nacelle structure, increases the flow area, and provides more efficient aerodynamic features by eliminating the need for external actuators, resulting in improved performance and packaging efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The screw may be rotatably installable in the shuttle channel. The screw may be configured to drive the nut forward and aft in the track beam channel.
Implementation Method 2
utilizing a motor-driven screw to translate the sleeve, which minimizes friction
Data Source
AI summary
A translating sleeve actuation system is provided. The translating sleeve actuation system may be configured with one or more screws coupled to one or more motors configured to drive the screws. The screws may be disposed in channels defined in the track beams. The translating sleeve actuation system may also comprise one or more shuttles configured to translate forward and aft along the screw in the track beam channels.