Thrust Reverser Hinge Assembly for Independent Structure Pivoting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing thrust reverser assemblies for aircraft propulsion systems lack efficient mechanisms for independently pivoting and securing inner and outer fixed structures, which complicates access and operation during thrust reverser deployment.
Innovation Solution
A hinge assembly with multiple pivot axes and latch assemblies allows independent pivoting and securing of outer and inner fixed structure halves, enabling separate movement and improved access for operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the inner fixed structure and outer fixed structure are pivotably mounted together as a single unit, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to limited access and inability to independently position structure halves
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly is segmented into two independent hinge members: a first hinge member that pivotably mounts the outer fixed structure to the pylon, and a second hinge member that pivotably mounts the inner fixed structure to the outer fixed structure. This segmentation allows each structure half to be independently positioned and accessed, resolving the contradiction between reduced complexity and improved operability.
2Device complexity
If the inner fixed structure is mounted directly to the pylon, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to inability to independently position the inner structure
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into two independent hinge members that allow the inner fixed structure to be independently positioned relative to the outer fixed structure. The second hinge member specifically enables this independent positioning capability while maintaining overall structural integration.
3Reliability
If multiple latch assemblies are provided for securing inner and outer fixed structures, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latch system is segmented into two separate latch assemblies: a first latch assembly on the outer fixed structure and a second latch assembly on the inner fixed structure. Each latch assembly independently secures its respective structure half, providing enhanced reliability through redundant securing mechanisms while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Data Source
AI summary
A thrust reverser assembly includes a pylon, an outer fixed structure, an inner fixed structure, and a hinge assembly. The outer fixed structure extends about an axial centerline. The outer fixed structure includes a first outer body half. The inner fixed structure extends about the axial centerline. The inner fixed structure includes a first inner body half. The hinge assembly includes a first hinge member and a second hinge member. The first hinge member is pivotably mounted to the pylon about a first pivot axis. The second hinge member is pivotably mounted to the first hinge member about the first pivot axis. The first hinge member pivotably mounts the first outer body half to the pylon to pivot about the first pivot axis. The second hinge member pivotably mounts the first inner body half to the first outer body half to pivot about the first pivot axis independent of the first outer body half.