Thrust Reverser Actuator Locking Inhibitor Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing thrust reverser locking devices are bulky and affect mass distribution due to their cantilevered mounting, and the locking rod is subjected to significant radial forces, posing operational challenges.
Innovation Solution
A compact actuation device with a locking inhibitor system that includes a guide part, a movable ball, and an electromagnet, allowing for controlled locking and unlocking of the actuator without requiring continuous electrical power, and featuring a universal joint assembly to mitigate misalignment stresses.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the locking device is mounted cantilevered on the housing, then the locking device can be positioned to engage the drive shaft, but the mass distribution becomes unbalanced and the bulk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device is integrated into the actuator housing structure rather than being mounted as a separate cantilevered component. The housing itself forms part of the locking mechanism support, merging the housing structure with the locking device support function. This eliminates the need for additional mounting structures and improves mass distribution by utilizing the existing housing geometry.
2Reliability
If the locking device is mounted cantilevered on the housing, then the locking device can be positioned to engage the drive shaft, but the bulk of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device components are integrated into the existing actuator housing and drive shaft assembly. The housing walls serve as mounting surfaces for the locking mechanism, and the drive shaft itself is used as the locking engagement element. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate locking housings or mounting brackets, thereby reducing overall system bulk.
3Reliability
If the locking rod is positioned to engage the drive shaft, then the locking function is achieved, but the locking rod is subjected to significant radial forces
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a locking rod that pushes radially against the drive shaft, the invention uses the drive shaft itself as the locking element that engages with recesses or teeth on the actuator components. The locking force is applied axially through the drive shaft rotation rather than radially through a separate rod, inverting the traditional locking approach and eliminating significant radial loads on a dedicated locking rod.
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 solution provides a more balanced and compact locking mechanism that prevents untimely deployment during flight while allowing controlled deployment and retraction of the thrust reverser, improving the overall efficiency and reliability of the thrust reverser system.
Implementation Method 1
the locking device comprises an electromagnet which, when energized, biases the locking part towards the unlocked position
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to an actuation device (1) for moving the movable cowling of a thrust reverser, comprising: an actuator (7) with a first member (12) such as a screw, and a second member (14) such as a nut, wherein the first and second members are capable of engaging such that the rotation of the first member results in a translation of the second member, a locking device (33) including a locking part (34) movable between a locked position for preventing to the rotation of the first member and an unlocked position for enabling the rotation of the first member, and a lock inhibiting device (42) comprising a recess (46) and a ball (47) movable in the recess between a stowed position, in which the ball enables the movement of the locking part, and an inhibition position in which the ball prevents the locking part from returning into the locked position.