Thrust Reverser Control Device Mechanical Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thrust reverser systems for aircraft nacelles lack a reliable mechanism to prevent accidental disengagement of the control devices, which can lead to a non-operational thrust reverser during critical situations like maintenance or failures.
Innovation Solution
A control device with a first motor-actuated blocking control and a second mechanical blocking control that inhibits the disengagement of the first control as long as the mechanical control is activated, ensuring the thrust reverser remains operational by directly blocking the displacement of the operating lever or imposing an activation order on the controls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If independent manual blocking controls are used for thrust reverser, then the system provides flexibility in preventing deployment, but the risk of faulty maneuvers increases due to lack of interlocking between controls
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the mechanical blocking control (second control) provides interlocking feedback to prevent disengagement of the motor-actuated blocking control (first control). When the mechanical control is activated, it mechanically blocks the disengagement of the first control, ensuring that both controls remain coordinated and preventing faulty maneuvers where one control might be disengaged while the other remains activated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanical interlocking mechanism between the two independent blocking controls. This intermediary structure ensures that the activation state of one control influences the disengagement capability of the other, creating a coordinated system that maintains reliability while preserving the flexibility of having multiple blocking controls.
2Reliability
If a mechanical interlocking mechanism is added between blocking controls, then the reliability of the system improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the interlocking function directly into the existing mechanical blocking control structure. The mechanical interlocking mechanism is integrated with the second control's mechanical action on the movable portions, combining the blocking function with the interlocking function in a single integrated mechanism rather than adding a completely separate system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs simple, robust mechanical components for the interlocking mechanism that prioritize reliability over complexity. The design uses straightforward mechanical elements like blocking members and interlocking features that are easy to manufacture and maintain, avoiding complex electronic or hydraulic interlocking systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A control device for a thrust reverser of a turbojet engine nacelle, which includes movable portions actuated by actuators, includes: a first blocking control acting on a motor-actuated system; and a second blocking control acting, mechanically, on the movable portions. The second blocking control may inhibit, when activated, a deployment of the movable portions. The control device further includes a device inhibiting disengagement of the first blocking control when a mechanical control is activated.