Thrust Reverser Actuation Using Regenerative Braking
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing thrust reverser actuation systems for aircraft rely on parasitic or aiding load resistors for electric motor braking, which increase system weight and complexity, necessitating a more efficient method for dissipating electric power during braking.
Innovation Solution
A thrust reverser control system that utilizes an electric motor to generate regenerative current, which is then supplied to an electric brake to provide braking torque, eliminating the need for parasitic or aiding load resistors and reducing system weight and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If parasitic or aiding load resistors are used for electric motor braking, then braking function is achieved, but system weight and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the braking function with the existing electric motor by using its regenerative capability. The motor operates as a generator during braking, converting mechanical energy to electrical energy that can be fed back to the power source or stored, thereby eliminating the need for separate parasitic or aiding load resistors and reducing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the regenerative current, which would otherwise be wasted energy requiring dissipation through resistors, into a useful resource by feeding it back to the power source or storing it. This transforms what was previously a harmful waste product into a beneficial energy recovery mechanism, eliminating the need for weighty resistor components.
2Reliability
If parasitic or aiding load resistors are used for electric motor braking, then braking function is achieved, but system weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the braking function into the existing electric motor system by utilizing its regenerative capability. This eliminates the need for separate resistor components that would add significant weight to the stationary system, while maintaining reliable braking function through the motor's inherent electromagnetic braking when operated as a generator.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the regenerative current into a beneficial resource rather than wasting it through resistors. By feeding the generated electrical energy back to the power source or storing it in energy storage devices, the system eliminates heavy resistor components while achieving effective braking, thereby reducing overall system weight.
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
This solution enables effective electric motor braking without the weight and complexity of traditional resistors, enhancing the efficiency and simplicity of the thrust reverser control system.
Implementation Method 1
The electric motor is configured, upon being energized, to supply the actuator input torque to the actuators and further configured to selectively generate regenerative current
Implementation Method 2
The electric brake is coupled to be selectively supplied with the regenerative current and is configured, upon being supplied with the regenerative current, to supply a braking torque that slows movement of the actuators
Data Source
AI summary
A thrust reverser control system includes a plurality of actuators, an electric motor, an electric brake, and a control. Each actuator is responsive to an actuator input torque to move between a stowed position and a deployed position. The electric motor is coupled to each of the actuators and is configured, upon being energized from a voltage source having a supply voltage magnitude, to supply the actuator input torque to the actuators and further configured to selectively generate regenerative current. The electric brake is coupled to be selectively supplied with the regenerative current and is configured, upon being supplied with the regenerative current, to supply a braking torque that slows movement of the actuators. The control is coupled to the electric brake and is configured, upon the supply voltage magnitude exceeding a predetermined value, to cause the regenerative current to be supplied to the electric brake.