Self-Aligning Drag Link Reduces Thrust Reverser Drag
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thrust reverser systems in turbofan engines face challenges in reducing drag and optimizing airflow due to fixed link arms, which can lead to increased fuel consumption and stress on braking systems during landing.
Innovation Solution
A self-aligning drag link system with a pivotally connected airflow modification device, such as a sail, that rotates with respect to the drag link axis, reducing drag by aligning with local airflow and minimizing disruptions, and incorporating damping mechanisms to prevent excessive wear and flutter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If fixed link arms are used in thrust reverser systems, then structural simplicity and ease of manufacture are improved, but drag increases and airflow optimization deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed link arm into a self-aligning drag link with a rotatable airflow modification device. The drag link includes a member with an axis and an airflow modification device covering at least a portion of the member, where the airflow modification device is configured to rotate with respect to the axis. This rotational capability allows the device to dynamically align with airflow patterns, reducing drag while maintaining structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by enabling the airflow modification device to change its orientation parameter through rotation. By allowing the device to rotate relative to the drag link axis, the system can optimize its aerodynamic parameters in response to varying airflow conditions, thereby reducing drag without complicating the manufacturing process.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If aerodynamically profiled link arms are used, then drag reduction is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than using complex fixed aerodynamic profiles, the patent employs a dynamic solution where a relatively simple airflow modification device can rotate to align with airflow. This dynamic alignment achieves drag reduction comparable to complex aerodynamic profiling while maintaining simpler device architecture and lower manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The airflow modification device operates on a self-service principle by automatically rotating to align with the airflow through the action of the airflow itself. This self-aligning capability eliminates the need for complex control systems, actuators, or sophisticated aerodynamic profiling, thereby reducing device complexity while achieving effective drag reduction.
3Ease of manufacture
If single angle link arms are used as compromise, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but drag reduction effectiveness deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by replacing the fixed single-angle configuration with a dynamic rotational mechanism. The airflow modification device can rotate to achieve optimal alignment with airflow in various operating conditions, providing effective drag reduction without requiring complex multi-angle structural designs that would increase manufacturing difficulty.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of manufacturing multiple link arms at different fixed angles, the patent enables a single link arm structure to change its effective angle through rotation of the airflow modification device. This parameter change approach achieves multiple aerodynamic configurations without increasing manufacturing complexity, as the rotation mechanism is simpler than producing and assembling multiple angled components.
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 effectively reduces drag and improves thrust specific fuel consumption by optimizing airflow around the drag links, allowing for more efficient thrust reversal and reduced stress on braking systems during landing.
Implementation Method 1
A bearing is disposed therebetween, and the blade is rotatable about the longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 2
A self-aligning drag link has a first end with a first aperture, a second end with a second aperture, a member having an axis connecting the first end with the second end, and an airflow modification device covering at least a portion of the member. The airflow modification device is configured to rotate with respect to the axis.
Data Source
AI summary
A flowpath channel has a blade pivotally connected along a longitudinal axis thereof, at opposing top and bottom ends thereof, to respective top and bottom portions of the flowpath channel. The chord axis of the blade, between leading and trailing edges thereof, is capable of pivoting parallel to and skewed from the flowpath. The top end of the blade and an attachment structure secured to the flowpath channel each include a race. A bearing is disposed therebetween, and the blade is rotatable about the longitudinal axis.