Integrated Propeller Actuator Tailshaft Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic pitch change propeller systems are complex and heavy due to the use of multiple components, which affects reliability and efficiency in changing propeller blade pitch.
Innovation Solution
A propeller system with a propeller hub and tailshaft where a pitch change yoke moves along the axis of rotation, sliding engagement with the tailshaft to define pitch change chambers, reducing the need for additional components and facilitating weight reduction through structural multipurpose components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hydraulic pitch change actuators with separate pistons and yokes are used, then pitch change functionality is achieved, but system complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the actuator dome and tailshaft into a single integrated component structure. The actuator dome is positioned within the tailshaft housing, and the piston rod connects directly to the yoke through the integrated structure, eliminating the need for separate actuator and tailshaft assemblies. This integration reduces component count and simplifies the overall pitch change mechanism while maintaining functional reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated actuator-tailshaft structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support for the propeller hub, transmits rotational power, houses the hydraulic actuator mechanism, and enables pitch change actuation. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, reducing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for pitch change actuation, then pitch change functionality is achieved, but system weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (actuator dome, tailshaft, piston assembly) into an integrated structure where the actuator dome is housed within the tailshaft assembly. This merging eliminates redundant structural elements and reduces the total weight of the pitch change mechanism while maintaining the reliability of pitch control through the unified structure.
3Ease of operation
If traditional piston and yoke configuration is used, then pitch change is achieved, but unnecessary components remain that increase complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary intermediate components from the traditional piston-yoke configuration. By integrating the actuator dome directly into the tailshaft structure and using a simplified piston rod connection, the design removes redundant parts while preserving the essential pitch change operation through direct mechanical linkage.
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
This configuration simplifies the propeller system, enhances reliability, and reduces weight by eliminating unnecessary components, while maintaining effective propeller blade pitch adjustment.
Implementation Method 1
Existing hydraulic pitch change propeller systems utilizes a pitch change actuator with a piston which translates in a hydraulic cylinder
Implementation Method 2
the propeller pitch change yoke in sliding engagement with the tailshaft
Data Source
AI summary
A propeller system includes a propeller hub which supports a multiple of propeller blades. A tailshaft extends from a propeller hub portion of the propeller hub along an axis of rotation with a propeller pitch change yoke mounted within the propeller hub for movement along an axis of rotation to change a pitch of the multiple of propeller blades, the propeller pitch change yoke in sliding engagement with the tailshaft.