Landing Gear Toggle Lock Mechanism Spring Force Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional landing gear toggle lock mechanisms require excessive spring force due to space limitations and material strength constraints, leading to inefficient energy use and reduced spring lifespan, as they apply force over a majority of the extension stroke and remain loaded during retraction.
Innovation Solution
A landing gear lock assembly with a toggle lock mechanism that uses a biasing member and actuator to apply maximum spring force at a predetermined point of extension, featuring a compact design with fewer parts, where the biasing member is relaxed during retraction and extension, optimizing energy use and reducing stress on components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional toggle lock mechanisms use springs to lock landing gear in extended position, then locking force is provided, but spring stroke is excessively long and energy is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temporal parameter of spring force application, transitioning from continuous force application throughout the entire extension stroke to discrete force application only during the final locking phase. This is achieved through the sequential activation of first and second springs at different stages of the extension sequence, thereby reducing energy waste while maintaining necessary locking force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by using separate first and second springs that activate at different times during the extension sequence. The first spring operates during initial extension, then the second spring takes over for the final locking phase. This periodic activation pattern ensures force is applied only when needed, reducing continuous energy consumption and spring stroke requirements.
2Stability of the object's composition
If springs remain under load during retraction, then landing gear is held in position, but spring lifespan is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the load-bearing function from the springs during retraction by introducing a lock bar that mechanically secures the landing gear in the extended position. This allows the springs to be removed from the load path during retraction, eliminating continuous stress and significantly extending spring lifespan while maintaining position stability through the lock bar mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock bar mechanism provides self-service by automatically engaging to hold the landing gear in position without requiring continuous spring force. Once the landing gear reaches the extended position, the lock bar secures it mechanically, allowing the springs to relax and eliminating the need for continuous energy expenditure to maintain stability.
3Force
If more locking force is required due to space limitations, then landing gear can be secured firmly, but conventional mechanisms lack sufficient spring force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the spring mechanism into distinct first and second spring components that operate at different phases of the extension sequence. This segmentation allows each spring to be optimized for its specific function - the first spring for initial extension and the second spring for final high-force locking - thereby achieving greater total locking force without requiring a single overly complex spring system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by creating a time-dependent force application system where different springs activate at different moments during extension. This dynamic sequencing allows the system to deliver high locking force when needed while keeping the mechanism relatively simple, as each spring only needs to provide force during its specific activation window rather than continuously.
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 solution provides a more efficient locking mechanism with reduced weight and cost, as it applies maximum force at the optimal point of extension, extending the lifespan of the biasing members and improving the overall efficiency of the landing gear operation.
Implementation Method 1
applying a force to a crank link of the toggle lock mechanism with at least one biasing member to further rotate the toggle lock mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a landing gear. The method includes extending an actuator to apply a force to a crank link of a toggle lock mechanism causing a mechanical unlocking of a second lock link from a fully extended position, retracting the actuator to rotate the toggle lock mechanism about a toggle lock pivot axis of a first lock link, causing rotation of the second lock link that is rotatably coupled to the first lock link so that the second lock link folds relative to the first lock link in a second rotation direction, and a toggle link of the toggle lock mechanism rotates relative to the second lock link, in the first rotation direction opposite the second rotation direction, to rotate the second lock link to a fully retracted position of the second lock link relative to the first lock link.