Nacelle Thrust Reverser Radial Spacer Load Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thrust reversers for aircraft require effective load paths and deflection limiters to manage loads and deflections during deployment and stowing, particularly in designs where cascades translate rearward and are positioned radially over the fan case, necessitating innovative structural elements to ensure proper load transfer and minimize displacement.
Innovation Solution
A thrust reverser design featuring a radial spacer in sliding contact with the fan case, combined with a V-blade/groove interface and latches, facilitates axial load transfer and deflection limitation, while a resiliently compressible radial spacer provides additional stability and fire barrier functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If cascades are positioned radially over the fan case in a stowed position, then the thrust reverser structure can be compact, but load transfer paths become complex and require additional structural elements
Solution Approach 1:
A radial spacer is introduced as an intermediary element between the outer fixed structure assembly and the fan case. The spacer provides a defined load transfer interface and maintains radial spacing, simplifying the load path while enabling the compact stowed configuration where cascades are positioned radially over the fan case.
2Strength
If a radial spacer is introduced to manage loads and deflections, then structural integrity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radial spacer is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it maintains radial spacing between components, provides a load transfer interface, limits radial deflections, and serves as a deflection limiter. By consolidating these functions into a single element, the spacer improves structural integrity without proportionally increasing device complexity.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the radial spacer is designed as resiliently compressible, then deflection limitation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The radial spacer is designed with resiliently compressible properties by selecting appropriate material parameters and geometric characteristics. The spacer's ability to compress radially allows it to absorb thermal expansion and limit deflections while maintaining structural integrity. This parameter-based approach enables straightforward manufacturing using conventional processes.
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 effectively manages axial loads and thermal transients, reduces radial displacement, and ensures reliable operation by enabling controlled movement and load transfer between the thrust reverser components and the fan case, enhancing the structural integrity and operational efficiency of the thrust reverser system.
Implementation Method 1
the radial spacer is a resiliently compressible bumper
Implementation Method 2
a radial spacer engaged to the outer fixed structure assembly and in sliding contact with the fan case
Data Source
AI summary
A thrust reverser of a nacelle is orientated at least in-part about a fan case of a turbofan engine. The thrust reverser includes an outer fixed structure assembly and a radial spacer. The outer fixed structure assembly circumferentially extends about a centerline and is spaced, at least in part, radially outward from the fan case. The radial spacer is engaged to the outer fixed structure assembly and is in sliding contact with the fan case.