Pitch Link Centering Tool for Rotor Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Adjusting the length of a pitch link in an aircraft rotor system while maintaining the correct angle between rod ends is challenging, especially when the pitch link is installed, as existing methods require removal and subsequent reinstallation for accurate length adjustments.
Innovation Solution
A centering tool with a rod and connectors that hold the pitch link rod ends at a fixed radial angle, allowing for length adjustments without disturbing the angle, by positioning one rod end in a first slot and the other in a second slot, rotating about respective axes to maintain the angle during length changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the pitch link is removed from the aircraft for length adjustment, then the length can be adjusted, but the operational efficiency is reduced and the complexity of the adjustment process increases
Solution Approach 1:
A centering tool is introduced as an intermediary device to maintain the correct angle between rod ends during in-situ length adjustment. The centering tool includes a rod with first and second connectors that couple to the rod ends, providing a mediator that enables adjustment without removal while preserving the required geometric relationship
Solution Approach 2:
The centering tool is attached to the pitch link before length adjustment begins, establishing the correct angular relationship between rod ends in advance. This preliminary positioning of the rod ends at the proper angle allows subsequent length changes to occur without disturbing the angular configuration
2Ease of operation
If the pitch link is adjusted with the link on the aircraft, then in-situ adjustment is enabled, but maintaining the correct angle between rod ends becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The centering tool serves as a precision intermediary that mechanically enforces the correct angle between rod ends during in-situ adjustment. The tool's rigid structure and geometric design ensure that the angular relationship is maintained with high precision throughout the adjustment process
Solution Approach 2:
The centering tool allows the length parameter of the pitch link to be changed while constraining the angular parameter between rod ends to remain constant. The tool effectively decouples these two parameters, enabling independent adjustment of length without affecting angle
3Measurement precision
If subsequent measurements and adjustments are required to achieve the correct angle, then the angle can be corrected, but the time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The centering tool establishes the correct angular relationship between rod ends before any length adjustment occurs. By pre-positioning the rod ends at the proper angle and maintaining this configuration throughout the adjustment process, the need for subsequent angular measurements and corrections is eliminated
Solution Approach 2:
The centering tool provides continuous geometric feedback through its mechanical constraints, ensuring that the rod ends remain at the correct angle throughout the adjustment process. The tool's structure inherently prevents angular deviation, providing real-time feedback that eliminates the need for separate measurement and correction steps
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary pitch link centering tool includes a rod having a longitudinal axis, a front face, a rear face, a first rod end and a second rod end, the first rod end having a first aperture with a first rotational axis, the second rod end having a second aperture with a second rotational axis, a first connector coupled to the first rod end, the first connector having a first slot extending in a first radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis and a second connector coupled to the second rod end, the second connector having a second slot extending in a second radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis different from the first radial direction.