Propulsion Unit Lifting Points on Thrust Reverser Beams

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing propulsion assemblies with turbojet engines face challenges in reducing the size, mass, and cost due to the need for reinforcement around the annular vein for both thrust reverser control cylinders and lifting points, which also complicates maintenance and handling procedures.

Innovation Solution

The propulsion assembly integrates mobile thrust reversal grids and cylinders around the annular air stream, using existing cylinder fixing supports to form lifting points, eliminating the need for separate reinforcements and allowing access through existing inspection hatches for maintenance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If separate lifting points are installed around the annular vein, then lifting capability is provided, but the size, mass and cost of the turbojet and nacelle equipment increases due to necessary reinforcements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelifting capabilityVSAvoidmass of nacelle equipment
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The lifting points are integrated with the fixing supports of the thrust reverser cylinders. The same structural elements that support the thrust reverser mechanism also serve as anchoring points for lifting operations, eliminating the need for separate lifting point installations and their associated reinforcements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The fixing supports of the thrust reverser cylinders are designed to fulfill multiple functions: structural support for the thrust reverser mechanism and anchoring points for lifting the turbojet engine. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components and reinforcements needed in the nacelle structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If lifting points are installed separate from cylinder mounting brackets, then lifting access is provided, but the complexity of the structure increases with additional reinforcements around the annular vein

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelifting accessVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lifting points are merged with the cylinder mounting brackets, using the same structural elements for both thrust reverser support and lifting operations. This integration simplifies the overall structure by eliminating redundant components and reinforcement requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Weight of stationary object

If lifting points are formed on cylinder fixing supports, then mass and size are reduced, but the force resistance requirements on the supports increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemass of nacelleVSAvoidforce resistance of supports
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of stationary objectVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The cylinder fixing supports are designed as multi-functional elements that must withstand both the operational forces of the thrust reverser mechanism and the additional forces imposed during lifting operations. The supports are engineered with sufficient strength to handle both loading conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3755887B1Propulsion unit having lifting points arranged on beams for thrust reverser actuators
Publication Date: 2024.08.07 SAFRAN AIRCRAFT ENGINES SAS
  • EP3755887B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3b
  • EP3755887B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5
  • EP3755887B1 patent drawingFigure 6

AI summary

The invention relates to a propulsion unit comprising a nacelle and a turbofan engine, comprising a thrust reverser having gratings provided with movable thrust reversal gratings arranged around an annular duct for fresh air from the turbojet engine, and actuators (40) arranged around the annular duct and each having a front end attached to the turbojet engine, each actuator also having a rear end which translates movable rear covers and gratings for opening, in the annular duct, radial passages which receive said gratings, and having points for lifting the turbojet engine, said lifting points being arranged around the annular duct for fresh air from the turbojet engine, at least one of said lifting points being formed on a beam (46) for attaching a front end (44) of an actuator (40).