Thrust Reverser Actuation Layout With Eccentric Actuator Placement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thrust reverser systems face challenges in reducing the number of actuators while maintaining functionality and avoiding increased nacelle radial dimensions and ground clearance issues, particularly in cluttered areas with locking interfaces and equipment.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an actuating system with an eccentric actuator positioned away from the cluttered locking interface area, reducing the number of actuators and optimizing their distribution to maintain functionality and aerodynamic performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If the number of actuators is reduced to limit mass and cost, then mass and cost are reduced, but the reliability and functionality may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by positioning actuators in non-symmetric locations around the nacelle circumference. Instead of uniform distribution, the actuator arrangement is optimized to exploit the asymmetric aerodynamic force distribution during thrust reversal, allowing fewer actuators to achieve the same functional effect while maintaining reliability.
2Device complexity
If an actuator is positioned on the median plane to reduce actuator number, then the number of actuators is reduced, but installation becomes difficult due to cluttered locking interface area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves the installation difficulty by moving the actuator positioning problem from a two-dimensional plane (median plane) to a three-dimensional circumferential arrangement. Actuators are distributed around the circumference at specific angular positions, utilizing the third dimension (circumferential angle) to avoid the cluttered 6 o'clock position while maintaining effective force distribution.
3Device complexity
If an actuator is installed at the 6 o'clock position to reduce actuator number, then the number of actuators is reduced, but the radial dimension increases potentially compromising ground clearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by varying the circumferential position of actuators according to the local spatial constraints. Instead of using a uniform radial position for all actuators, each actuator is positioned at a different circumferential angle, allowing the system to maintain compact radial dimensions while distributing actuators effectively around the nacelle circumference.
Data Source
AI summary
A thrust reverser for an aircraft propulsion unit, the reverser having a movable structure translatably movable relative to a fixed structure between an advanced direct thrust position and a retracted reverse thrust position, the reverser including an actuating system for moving the movable structure, including one or more actuators each with an actuating member that is translatably movable and centred on an actuating axis, the two movable reverser cowls being arranged symmetrically with respect to each other in a first median plane of the reverser. Among the actuator(s) of the actuating system, an eccentric actuator is provided, the actuating axis of which is offset circumferentially with respect to the first median plane.