Radially Connected Cascade Grids for Thrust Reverser Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
The structural support for cascade grids in thrust reverser systems of aircraft engines poses challenges in aerodynamic efficiency and external profile, as existing designs struggle to effectively transfer loads between cascades while accommodating actuators, leading to potential size and shape issues with the aft cascade ring.
Innovation Solution
A radial connection system using structural connecting members and actuators with integral flanges allows for the transfer of hoop and radial loads between adjacent cascade boxes, reducing the size and complexity of the aft cascade ring and enabling efficient load distribution without compromising actuator positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional structural support designs are used for cascade grids, then the thrust reverser system can accommodate actuators, but the external profile and aerodynamic features of the aircraft are compromised, reducing overall efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The structural connecting member merges the functions of supporting multiple cascades and accommodating the actuator into a single integrated component. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate structural elements, reducing the external profile while maintaining both structural integrity and actuator functionality, thereby improving aerodynamic efficiency without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The structural connecting member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it structurally joins adjacent cascades, provides mounting support for the actuator, and maintains the required spacing between components. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate parts needed, simplifying the overall structure while preserving aerodynamic performance
2Strength
If structural connecting members are used to join cascades, then the load transfer between cascades is improved, but the size and complexity of the aft cascade ring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The structural connecting member is designed as a segmented component that interfaces with individual cascades at discrete points rather than requiring a large continuous structure. This segmentation allows load transfer to be achieved through localized connections, reducing the overall volume of the aft cascade ring while maintaining strength
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting member utilizes radial spacing between cascades to distribute loads in a dimensional configuration that minimizes the axial extent of the aft cascade ring. By arranging connections in the radial dimension, the structure achieves adequate load transfer capability without increasing the ring size in the axial direction
3Volume of stationary object
If the radial spacing between cascades is reduced, then the size of the thrust reverser system is minimized, but the positioning and functionality of actuators are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is nested within the space created by the radial arrangement of cascades and their connecting members. This nesting allows the actuator to be positioned in the间隙 between cascades without requiring additional radial spacing, thereby maintaining compact system size while ensuring adequate actuator positioning and functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The structural connecting member acts as an intermediary that mediates between the cascades and the actuator. It provides the necessary mounting interfaces and spacing control, allowing the actuator to be properly positioned and functioned even with reduced radial spacing between cascades
Data Source
AI summary
In various embodiments, a cascade array may comprise an actuator, a first cascade having a first integral flange, and a second cascade having a second integral flange, wherein the first cascade and the second cascade are operatively coupled to one another via the first integral flange and the second integral flange to form a cascade assembly, and the actuator is disposed between the first cascade and the second cascade.