Modular Actuation Device for Missile Control Surfaces

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing missile aerodynamic control surface actuation systems are complex, expensive, and difficult to install due to space constraints, requiring intricate torque transfer mechanisms and multiple components.

Innovation Solution

A modular actuation device with a compact, self-contained design featuring an electric motor, epicyclic gear train, and torque output member, which is scalable and easier to manufacture and integrate, reducing the number of parts and complexity.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If traditional actuation systems are used to meet torque and power requirements, then performance is achieved, but device complexity and number of parts increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorque and power requirementsVSAvoidcomplexity

Core Design Contradiction:

PowerVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the motor, epicyclic gear train, and torque output member into a single integrated modular actuation device. The motor is positioned coaxially with the torque output member, and the epicyclic gear train is arranged within the same housing, merging multiple components that traditionally would be separate into one unified assembly.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The epicyclic gear train is nested within the housing, with the sun gear connected to the motor output shaft and planetary gears arranged around it. The torque output member is nested within the gear train structure, with bearings supporting the planetary gear carriers. This nested arrangement maximizes space utilization and reduces overall device volume.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Volume of moving object

If space constraints are addressed by reducing size, then installation ease improves, but achieving required torque becomes more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovesizeVSAvoidtorque

Core Design Contradiction:

Volume of moving objectVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical torque transfer mechanisms with an epicyclic gear train that provides high torque multiplication in a compact configuration. The epicyclic gearing efficiently converts the motor's rotational output into high torque at the torque output member through planetary gear engagement, achieving space-efficient torque amplification.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the gear train, specifically using an epicyclic configuration with optimized gear ratios to achieve the required torque output from a smaller motor. By adjusting the gear ratios and component dimensions, the system achieves high torque output while maintaining a compact size suitable for missile applications.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If custom-designed actuators are used to meet specific constraints, then performance is optimized, but manufacturing and installation costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveperformance optimizationVSAvoidmanufacturing and installation costs

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent designs a universal modular actuation device that can be applied to various missile control surfaces including fins, wings, and other aerodynamic surfaces. The standardized housing, motor mounting interface, and torque output coupling allow the same basic design to serve multiple functions and applications, reducing manufacturing complexity and installation costs compared to custom-designed actuators.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 modular actuation device provides a more efficient, cost-effective, and simpler solution for actuating aerodynamic control surfaces, alleviating space constraints and reducing development, manufacturing, and installation costs while maintaining performance across various torque and power requirements.

Implementation Method 1

an epicyclic gear train disposed within the outer support structure and operably coupled to the electric motor to receive the input torque, wherein the epicyclic gear train is configured to provide an output torque

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectEpicyclic gearing: Epicyclic Gearing

Implementation Method 2

the epicyclic gear train is configured to provide an output torque to move an object

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS9531238B2Modular actuation device for an aerodynamic control surface of a missile

Publication Date: 2016.12.27 RAYTHEON CO

AI summary

A modular actuation device for an object, such as an aerodynamic control surface of a missile. The modular actuation device can include an outer support structure configured to couple with an external support member, such as a structural portion of a missile. The modular actuation device can also include an electric motor to provide an input torque and having an outer casing coupled to the outer support structure. The modular actuation device can further include an epicyclic gear train disposed within the outer support structure and operably coupled to the electric motor to receive the input torque. The epicyclic gear train can be configured to provide an output torque to move the object. In addition, the modular actuation device can include a torque output member disposed at least partially within the outer support structure and coupled to the epicyclic gear train to receive the output torque. The torque output member can be configured to couple with the object.