Nested Thrust Vector Nozzle With Double Universal Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thrust vectoring exhaust nozzle designs are overly complex due to the need for variable outlet areas, especially when multidirectional control is required without the necessity for a variable outlet area, necessitating a simpler design for two-degree-of-freedom thrust vectoring.
Innovation Solution
A thrust vectoring exhaust nozzle apparatus featuring an inner and outer nozzle with asynchronously actuating mechanisms, including linear actuators and double universal joints, allowing simultaneous horizontal and vertical rotation of the nozzle to achieve multidirectional control with minimal components and actuators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If flaps or panes with a ring are used to deflect exhaust for multidirectional control, then thrust vectoring capability is achieved, but device complexity increases due to excessive components and actuators
Solution Approach 1:
The inner nozzle is disposed within the outer nozzle in a nested configuration, with both nozzles coaxially aligned. The inner nozzle handles one degree-of-freedom while the outer nozzle handles another degree-of-freedom, allowing two-degree-of-freedom thrust vectoring without requiring multiple separate actuators or complex flap mechanisms. This nesting eliminates the need for excessive components while maintaining full vectoring capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If variable outlet area mechanisms are included to accommodate afterburners, then adaptability to different operating conditions is improved, but device complexity and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle system achieves adaptability through dynamic positioning of the inner and outer nozzles rather than through variable area mechanisms. By asynchronously actuating the nozzles to change their angular positions independently, the system can accommodate different operating conditions including afterburner operation without requiring complex variable area mechanisms, thus reducing overall design complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A thrust vectoring exhaust nozzle is disclosed. The nozzle includes an inner nozzle for changing a first degree-of-freedom of exhaust gas, an outer nozzle for changing a second degree-of-freedom of exhaust gas, a mounting bracket, a first linear actuator, a second linear actuator, a first double universal joint, and a second double universal joint. The inner nozzle is coupled to the outer nozzle. The inner nozzle is coupled to the mounting bracket. The outer nozzle is coupled to the first and second joint. When the nozzle is mounted, the inner nozzle, the outer nozzle, and the exhaust are coaxially aligned in neutral position. Actuation of the first and second linear actuators drives the first and second double universal joints independently to each other. The independent motion of the first and second double universal joints rotates the inner and outer nozzles simultaneously about the exhaust in a horizontal direction and vertical direction enabling thrust vectoring.