Turbofan Thrust Reverser Linkage Obstruction Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thrust reversers in turbofan engines face challenges in reducing linkage obstruction in the bypass airflow duct, which affects the efficiency of propulsion and deceleration during aircraft landing.
Innovation Solution
A thrust reverser system incorporating a translating structure, a pivotally engaged blocker door, and a telescoping push rod with a biasing member, allowing for extended and retracted conditions to minimize obstruction and enhance movement between stowed and deployed states, utilizing a passive linkage and extendable linkage to redirect airflow efficiently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional linkages are used to move the blocker door between stowed and deployed positions, then the blocker door can be positioned correctly, but the linkage creates obstruction in the bypass airflow duct
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping push rod is nested within itself, with one section inserted into another section, allowing the linkage to retract to minimal length when not in use. This nesting arrangement enables the linkage to be stored within the blocker door assembly or duct structure, eliminating its obstruction to bypass airflow during normal engine operation while remaining available for actuation when thrust reversal is required
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a telescoping push rod with biasing member is used, then linkage obstruction is reduced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping push rod mechanism is merged with the existing blocker door actuation system, where the push rod serves dual purposes: providing the mechanical force to pivot the blocker door and simultaneously acting as the extendable linkage that retracts to minimize obstruction. The biasing member is integrated into the push rod assembly, combining the extendable linkage function with the force application function in a single unified mechanism rather than separate components
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 effectively reduces linkage obstruction, enhances airflow efficiency, and improves the transition between forward and reverse propulsion states, minimizing drag and noise during normal flight and reverse thrust operations.
Implementation Method 1
the telescoping push rod has a biasing member for biasing the telescoping push rod toward the extended condition
Data Source
AI summary
A thrust reverser of a turbofan engine has a translating structure and a blocker door device capable of diverting a bypass flowpath for reversing propulsion direction. The translating structure moves axially between a forward position and a rearward position and thereby drives a compound motion of a blocker door of the blocker door device that moves between respective stowed and deployed states. A passive linkage of the blocker door device is orientated between a stationary structure and the blocker door and may be utilized in combination with an extendable linkage that may be orientated between the blocker door and the stationary structure.