Thrust Reverser Actuator Synchronization Without Mechanical Linkages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thrust reverser actuation systems for jet aircraft engines are space-intensive and heavy due to the use of mechanical synchronization devices like shafts or cables, and existing electrohydraulic servo valve (EHSV) systems require multiple actuators, increasing cost.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a central directional control valve and smaller electrohydraulic servo valves to synchronize multiple hydraulic actuators, reducing the need for mechanical synchronization devices and minimizing the number of EHSVs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical synchronization devices (shafts or cables) are used to interlink actuators, then synchronization between actuators is achieved, but the system becomes space-intensive and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical synchronization devices (shafts or cables) with an electrohydraulic servo valve system that uses fluid pressure control and electronic feedback to synchronize multiple actuators. The controller receives position feedback from sensors on each actuator and adjusts the servo valve to equalize positions, eliminating the need for mechanical interlinking components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes a hydraulic system where a single electrohydraulic servo valve controls fluid distribution to multiple hydraulic actuators. By regulating fluid pressure and flow to each actuator based on feedback signals, the system achieves synchronization without mechanical connections, leveraging hydraulic principles for force transmission and control.
2Ease of operation
If multiple electrohydraulic servo valves are used to control each actuator independently, then precise control is achieved, but the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control function of multiple electrohydraulic servo valves into a single servo valve. This single valve controls fluid distribution to multiple hydraulic actuators based on a unified control signal from one controller, which integrates position feedback from all actuators. This consolidation maintains precise control capability while reducing the number of expensive servo valves and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The single electrohydraulic servo valve performs multiple functions by controlling fluid flow to several different actuators. The valve acts as a universal control element that can direct pressurized fluid to any connected actuator based on the controller's instructions, eliminating the need for dedicated servo valves for each actuator and reducing system complexity.
3Reliability
If mechanical synchronization devices are used, then actuator synchronization is achieved, but the system occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces space-consuming mechanical synchronization devices with a compact electronic-hydraulic control system. The controller and single servo valve occupy minimal space compared to mechanical shafts or cables that would need to physically connect multiple actuators. The synchronization is achieved through electronic signal processing and fluid pressure control rather than mechanical linkages.
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 system achieves synchronization between actuators while reducing weight, space, and cost by eliminating mechanical synchronization cables and potentially reducing the number of EHSVs, thus optimizing thrust reverser actuation.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid control system having an electrohydraulic servo valve operable to selectively route fluid between a pressurized fluid source, the second hydraulic actuator, and a fluid return reservoir
Implementation Method 2
a first hydraulic actuator operably coupled to move the thrust-reversing element between the stowed position and the deployed position, the first hydraulic actuator being fluidically connected to a pressurized fluid source
Data Source
AI summary
The subject matter of this specification can be embodied in, among other things, an engine assembly having a nacelle partially surrounding an engine, and a thrust reverser having a first element movable relative to the nacelle between a stowed and deployed position, a first hydraulic actuator configured to move the first element between the stowed and deployed position, the first hydraulic actuator being connected to a fluid source and a return reservoir, and a second element movable between a stowed and deployed position, a second hydraulic actuator configured to move the second element between the stowed and deployed position, the second hydraulic actuator being connected to the fluid source and the return reservoir, and a fluid control system having a servo valve operable to selectively route fluid between the fluid source, the first hydraulic actuator, and the return reservoir, and a controller configured to operate the servo valve.