Modular Rotorcraft Power Transmission for Multi-Engine Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rotorcraft power installations lack modularity and compactness, with complex mechanical connection interfaces that require multiple parts and are difficult to maintain or adapt to different engine configurations.
Innovation Solution
A modular power installation with a main power transmission box featuring a toothed wheel and pinions that allow for flexible connection interfaces, enabling easy adaptation and maintenance, with each mechanical connection interface comprising a pinion directly meshing with the toothed wheel and reversible securing means for secure and retractable connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate power transmissions are used for different engines, then each engine can be independently connected, but the device complexity increases and modularity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple power transmission paths into a single integrated main power transmission box that can accept multiple engine inputs. This single box integrates the functions of what would otherwise be separate power transmissions, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to connect different engine configurations through modular connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The main power transmission box is designed with universal connection interfaces that can accommodate different engine types and configurations. The box serves multiple functions: it can receive power from one or multiple engines, transmit torque to various rotor configurations, and adapt to different power distribution scenarios, thereby providing versatility without requiring separate dedicated transmissions for each configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mechanical coupling devices are added to connect electric machines with different rotational speeds, then compatibility is improved, but the device complexity and difficulty of implementation increase
Solution Approach 1:
The power transmission box incorporates dynamic elements such as variable ratio gearings and adjustable connection interfaces that can adapt to different rotational speeds. This dynamic capability allows the system to accommodate electric machines with varying speeds without requiring complex fixed mechanical coupling devices, as the transmission can dynamically adjust its characteristics to match the connected engine's speed profile.
3Reliability
If redundant differential systems are used to rotate the rotor mast, then reliability is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple differential systems into a single integrated power transmission box that provides both redundant power paths and differential capability. Instead of having separate external and internal differential systems, the box internally integrates differential mechanisms that can handle power from multiple engines while providing the necessary differential rotation capability, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability through redundancy.
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
The solution achieves optimal compactness and reduced part count, allowing for easy adaptation to various engine configurations and maintenance, while ensuring efficient torque transmission to the rotor mast, thereby enhancing the rotorcraft's versatility and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
Each mechanical connection interface has a pinion (8, 18, 28) which directly meshes with the toothed wheel (6)
Implementation Method 2
reversible fastening means (30) allowing this interface housing (9, 19, 29) to be secured and alternatively retracted or removed from the gearbox housing (5)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The present invention relates to a modular type drive system (10) for a rotorcraft (1) comprising at least one lift rotor (2), said drive system (10) comprising: - at least one engine (3, 13, 23) of the combustion or electric type, - a main power transmission unit (4), comprising a gearbox housing and a gear (6) arranged in an internal volume delimited at least partially by said gearbox housing, said gear (6) having one degree of freedom in rotation about a primary axis of rotation relative to said gearbox housing, said gear (6) mechanically transmitting a motor torque generated by said at least one engine (3, 13, 23) to said at least one lift rotor (2) and - at least two mechanical connection interfaces, a first mechanical connection interface mechanically linking said main power transmission unit (4) to a first engine (3, 13, 23, 23)23), and a second mechanical connection interface being left free or mechanically linking said main power transmission box (4) to a second motorization (3, 13, 23).