Rotorcraft Pedal Retention System Using Spring-Loaded Insertion Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current rotorcraft pedal assemblies are difficult to disassemble quickly, posing a safety hazard when a non-pilot occupies the co-pilot seat, as they are often secured with bolts, nuts, cotter pins, and press-fit pins, which do not allow for rapid removal or reinstallation.
Innovation Solution
A pedal retention system utilizing an insertion member, axial retention member, and transverse retention member, where the insertion member compresses a spring against the pedal assembly, and the axial retention member retains the insertion member with a pocket and passage configuration, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly by rotating the insertion member and using a cotter pin or similar transverse retention member.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional fastening methods (bolts, nuts, cotter pins, press-fit pins) are used to secure pedal assemblies, then the connection strength and reliability are improved, but the disassembly time and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is divided into distinct functional segments: an insertion member with spring that provides initial retention, an axial retention member that provides secondary retention, and a transverse retention member that provides final security. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, enabling quick disassembly by simply removing the transverse retention member while maintaining reliable connection during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is pre-compressed between the insertion member and the pedal assembly, storing elastic potential energy that provides continuous retention force. This preliminary action ensures the pedal assembly remains securely retained without requiring active engagement mechanisms, allowing for rapid disassembly when needed while maintaining reliable connection during normal operation.
2Reliability
If multiple retention components (axial retention member, transverse retention member, spring) are used, then the security and reliability of pedal retention are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system divides the retention function into three simple, distinct components rather than one complex mechanism. The insertion member with spring handles initial retention, the axial retention member provides secondary retention through a simple passage and pocket structure, and the transverse retention member (cotter pin) provides final security. This segmentation makes each component simple in design while collectively achieving high retention security.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention components are nested within each other: the spring is nested within the insertion member, the insertion member is received by the axial retention member, and the transverse retention member passes through the axial retention member. This nested arrangement consolidates multiple retention functions into a compact space, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliable multi-stage retention.
3Speed
If the pedal assembly is designed for quick disassembly, then the safety response time is improved, but the connection strength and retention reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system separates the disassembly function from the retention function. The transverse retention member (cotter pin) serves as a simple release mechanism that can be quickly removed, enabling rapid disassembly. Meanwhile, the insertion member with spring and axial retention member provide multiple stages of retention that ensure strong connection during operation. This segmentation allows quick disassembly without compromising connection strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring is pre-compressed to store elastic potential energy, creating a preliminary retention force that maintains strong connection during operation. This pre-stored energy ensures the pedal assembly remains securely retained without requiring active locking mechanisms, allowing for both strong connection and quick disassembly when the transverse retention member is removed.
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
Enables faster disassembly and reassembly of rotor pedal assemblies, reducing the risk of a non-pilot interfering with the rotorcraft's operation and improving safety by allowing quick conversion of the co-pilot area to a pilot side during emergencies.
Implementation Method 1
The insertion member includes a spring compressible against the side of the pedal assembly in response to the insertion member being inserted through the side
Data Source
AI summary
One example of a retention system for a rotorcraft pedal assembly includes an insertion member, an axial retention member, and a transverse retention member. The insertion member, which is inserted through a side of a pedal assembly, includes a spring compressible against the side of the pedal assembly in response to the insertion member being inserted through the side. The axial retention member receives and retains the insertion member on an opposing side of the pedal assembly. The transverse retention member is inserted through a passage formed in the axial retention member to secure the axial retention member against the side of the pedal assembly.