Locking Linear Actuator With Integrated Sleeve Lock Indication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hydraulic linear actuators used in thrust reversers for aircraft are bulky, have many cooperating parts, leading to maintenance and weight issues, and their lock indicator systems cause mechanical wear, necessitating frequent service and replacement.
Innovation Solution
The development of locking linear actuators with a simplified design featuring an actuator housing, a slidably moving piston, and a lock sleeve that extends into the piston to prevent retraction, along with a streamlined lock mechanism and sensor system for enhanced reliability and reduced wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hydraulic actuators with locking mechanisms and lock indicators are used, then reliable locking function is achieved, but device complexity and component weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The lock indicator function is merged with the locking mechanism itself. The lock sleeve serves dual purposes: it provides the locking function when engaged with the piston, and simultaneously serves as the indicator by being visible through the transparent or translucent housing. This eliminates the need for separate indicator components while maintaining reliable locking indication.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock sleeve is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as the locking mechanism to prevent piston movement, serves as a visual indicator of lock status, and integrates with the hydraulic system. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of parts while maintaining the required reliability of the locking system.
2Loss of information
If traditional lock indicator systems are used, then lock status is visible, but mechanical wear increases necessitating frequent service
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional mechanical lock indicator system that relies on separate moving parts and mechanical linkages is replaced with a simplified system where the lock sleeve itself serves as the indicator. The transparent or translucent housing allows direct visual observation of the lock sleeve's position without requiring additional mechanical indicator components, thereby eliminating the mechanical wear associated with complex indicator mechanisms.
3Reliability
If bulky actuators with many parts are used, then reliable locking is achieved, but maintenance accessibility and serviceability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is designed with a modular structure where the lock sleeve can be independently accessed and serviced. The transparent or translucent housing allows visual inspection of the locking mechanism without disassembly, and the simplified design reduces the number of components that require maintenance, thereby improving accessibility and serviceability while maintaining reliable locking function.
Data Source
AI summary
Locking linear actuators, thrust reversers for aircraft that include the locking linear actuators, and methods of manufacturing the locking linear actuators. The disclosed locking linear actuators include an actuator housing that defines a bore housing an actuator piston and a lock sleeve. A portion of the actuator piston defines a lock aperture, housing a locking tab capable of radial movement. When the actuator is retracted, the locking tab engages with a step in the surface of the bore to lock the linear actuator, a distal portion of the lock sleeve extends into a portion of the actuator piston to prevent the locking tab from disengaging from the step in the surface of the bore.