Rotational Lock Mechanism for Control Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flight control systems for devices like missiles face challenges with high aerodynamic loading causing control surfaces to move inaccurately and potentially fail due to fatigue, leading to inaccurate flight path control.
Innovation Solution
A rotational lock mechanism for control surfaces that includes an output gear and lock plate, with locking members alignable for common rotation, utilizing an existing motor to lock and unlock the mechanism, minimizing components and weight, and featuring a retention mechanism to prevent rotation in the locked position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a locking device is provided to lock the control surface in a selected position, then accurate control surface positioning is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking members are integrated directly into the output gear structure, merging the locking function with the existing actuator components. The locking members on the output gear engage with corresponding locking members on the lock plate, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms and reducing overall device complexity while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The output gear serves multiple functions: it transmits rotational motion from the motor to the control surface and simultaneously provides locking capability through its integrated locking members. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated locking components, simplifying the overall device structure.
2Reliability
If additional locking components are added to prevent control surface movement, then control accuracy during high aerodynamic loading is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking members are formed as integral parts of the output gear, eliminating the need for separate locking components. This integration significantly reduces the weight of the locking mechanism while maintaining the reliability needed to prevent control surface movement during high aerodynamic loading.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent control surface movement, then reliability under aerodynamic loading is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is merged into the output gear structure through integrated locking members that engage with the lock plate. This approach improves reliability under aerodynamic loading without adding complex separate locking mechanisms, as the locking capability is inherent to the existing actuator components.
Solution Approach 2:
The output gear performs dual functions: transmitting rotational motion and providing locking capability through its locking members. This multi-functionality enhances reliability while avoiding the need for additional dedicated locking components, thereby preventing increases in device complexity.
4Weight of moving object
If minimal components are used in the locking mechanism, then weight is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking members are integrated into the output gear as integral features rather than separate components. This integration reduces weight while the precision is built into the manufacturing of the gear itself, where the locking members' positions can be precisely controlled during gear fabrication.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a rotational lock for a control surface, the rotational lock having an output gear including one or more locking members alignable with corresponding locking members on a lock plate in an unlocked position of the rotational lock, the locking members being engageable upon the axial movement of the lock plate to couple the lock plate and lock gear for common rotation. In this way, a rotational lock can be provided that is lightweight, utilizes minimal components, and utilizes an existing motor that actuates the control surface and unlocks the mechanism.