Segmented Variable Area Nozzle With Hoop Locking Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft propulsion system variable area nozzles struggle to efficiently accommodate subsonic, transonic, and supersonic speeds due to the varying properties of exhaust gases, necessitating improved mechanisms for varying the nozzle area to ensure proper and efficient propulsion system operation across different flight conditions.
Innovation Solution
A variable area nozzle assembly comprising a fixed nozzle structure, a translating sleeve assembly, and a plurality of nozzle segments with segment hoop locking assemblies, which allow for the translation and pivoting of nozzle segments to adjust the cross-sectional areas of the nozzle, enabling optimal control of exhaust flow for varying flight conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the nozzle area is varied to accommodate different flight speeds, then propulsion efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is divided into multiple segments that can be independently positioned and locked. Each segment can be adjusted to different angular positions to vary the effective nozzle area, allowing efficient accommodation of different flight speeds while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle incorporates movable segments that can be dynamically adjusted between different positions. The segments are mounted on a rotating mechanism that allows them to be positioned at different angles and locked into place, enabling the nozzle area to adapt dynamically to varying operational requirements
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple nozzle segments are used to vary area, then adaptability to different flight conditions is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is divided into multiple segments that can be independently positioned and locked. Each segment can be adjusted to different angular positions to vary the effective nozzle area, allowing efficient accommodation of different flight speeds while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The nozzle segments are designed with universal mounting features that allow them to be used in multiple positions and configurations. The same basic segment design can be positioned at different angles and locked into various locations, reducing the need for multiple specialized components and simplifying manufacturing
3Stability of the object's composition
If hoop locking assemblies are added to control segment movement, then stability of nozzle configuration is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the segment's position. The hoop locking assembly utilizes the segment's own movement and positioning to trigger locking actions, reducing the need for external control systems and complex actuation mechanisms while maintaining stable configured states
Data Source
AI summary
A variable area nozzle assembly includes a fixed nozzle structure, a translating sleeve, a plurality of nozzle segments, and a plurality of segment hoop locking assemblies. The translating sleeve is movably mounted to the fixed nozzle structure. The translating sleeve is translatable along the nozzle axis within the fixed nozzle structure between and to a first axial position and a second axial position. The plurality of nozzle segments form a variable area nozzle extending circumferentially about the nozzle axis. Each nozzle segment of the plurality of nozzle segments is pivotably mounted to the translating sleeve. The plurality of nozzle segments includes a first nozzle segment and a second nozzle segment. The plurality of segment hoop locking assemblies include a first segment hoop locking assembly. The first segment hoop locking assembly includes a hoop crank. With the translating sleeve in the first axial position or the second axial position, the hoop crank restricts circumferential movement of the first nozzle segment relative to the second nozzle segment.