Helicopter Swashplate Actuator Lateral Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing helicopter rotor control systems are cumbersome in height due to the need for extensive space under the swashplate to accommodate control rods or linear actuators and require additional mechanisms to prevent the non-rotating plate from rotating with the rotor.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of three actuators arranged laterally at the height of the swashplate, forming a sliding connection with the fixed plate, allows for reduced height control by enabling both vertical and angular displacements of the swashplate without the need for anti-rotation mechanisms, thereby minimizing space requirements and eliminating the need for specific anti-rotation devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If control rods or linear actuators are arranged under the swashplate, then the control function is achieved, but the height of the control system increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates the actuators from the vertical dimension (under the swashplate) to the horizontal dimension (laterally at the height of the swashplate). This dimensional transition eliminates the need for vertical space while maintaining the control function, as the actuators can still effectively move the swashplate laterally and vertically through their sliding connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding connection mechanism serves multiple functions simultaneously: it enables vertical displacement of the swashplate, enables angular displacement, and prevents rotation of the non-rotating plate. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate mechanisms into a single integrated system, reducing overall height.
2Ease of operation
If a stop mechanism is added to prevent rotation of the non-rotating plate, then rotational control is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The anti-rotation function is merged with the actuator-sliding connection system. The sliding connection inherently prevents rotation of the non-rotating plate while simultaneously enabling the required vertical and angular movements. This integration eliminates the need for a separate stop mechanism, reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding connection mechanism performs multiple functions: it enables vertical displacement, enables angular displacement, and prevents rotation. By making the actuator system multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for additional dedicated anti-rotation devices, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for controlling the blades of a helicopter rotor or similar, including a blade-supporting rotor mast (1). The control device consists of a swash plate (10) extending around the rotor mast and comprising a stationary ring (11) and a rotating ring (12) which is rotationally mounted on the stationary ring and which is connected to the blades and, therefore, rotates with the rotor; and three actuators (23) which generate the controlled movement of the rotating ring both in translation in parallel to the rotor mast and angularly about axes perpendicular to the rotor mast. According to the invention, the three actuators are disposed substantially at the swash plate in the side extension of same, each actuator including a moving part (21) which is directly connected to the stationary ring in order to form therewith a sliding joint such that the movement of the moving part of one of the actuators generates the movement of the associated part of the stationary ring along an axis of the rotor mast (Z).