Toggle Release Mechanism for Ram Air Turbine Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Ram Air Turbine (RAT) release mechanisms are complex due to multiple components requiring tight tolerances, complicating assembly and potentially leading to inadvertent deployment issues.
Innovation Solution
A toggle release mechanism comprising a base element, toggle element, link element, and actuating element, with a torsion spring and clevis pin configuration, allowing controlled rotation between locked and release positions, simplifying assembly and internal blocking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional toggle type linkage with multiple components is used, then the release mechanism can achieve locking and release functionality, but the assembly complexity increases due to tight tolerances required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple traditional toggle linkage components into a single integrated toggle element. This element includes a pivot portion, a link portion, and integrated stop features that were previously separate components. The integration eliminates the need for precise alignment and tight tolerances between multiple parts, thereby reducing assembly complexity while maintaining the locking and release functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The toggle element is segmented into functional portions (pivot portion, link portion, stop features) that are integrated into one piece. This segmentation allows each functional requirement to be built into the geometry of the single element, eliminating the need for multiple separate components and their associated tolerance requirements.
2Ease of operation
If a linear solenoid moves the linkage between locked and unlocked positions, then the release mechanism can be actuated, but the mechanism requires over-center movement that displaces the locking piston against spring force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the movement dimension of the locking piston from axial displacement to rotational movement. Instead of moving the piston axially against spring force, the integrated toggle element rotates about a pivot axis, with the link portion engaging and disengaging from the locking piston. This dimensional change reduces the force required for actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The link portion of the toggle element acts as an intermediary between the actuating force and the locking piston. It transfers the rotational movement from the pivot portion to the locking piston, enabling controlled engagement and disengagement without requiring direct axial displacement of the piston against spring force.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple components with tight tolerances are assembled, then the toggle mechanism can function properly, but the manufacturing and assembly process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple components (toggle linkage members, stops, pivot points) into a single integrated toggle element manufactured as one piece. This eliminates the need for precise assembly of multiple parts with tight tolerances, simplifying both manufacturing and assembly processes while maintaining the required mechanical precision through the integrated geometry.
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 mechanism ensures reliable and controlled deployment of RATs by reducing assembly complexity and eliminating external actuation dependencies, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The return spring may be a torsion spring mounted around the clevis pin for engagement with the toggle element and the base element
Implementation Method 2
The first end of the toggle element comprises a first stop and the base element comprises a second stop opposed to the first stop. The first stop and the second stop are in contact when the toggle element is in its locked position, preventing rotational movement of the toggle element in one rotational direction
Data Source
AI summary
A toggle release mechanism comprises a base element and a toggle element rotatably mounted at a first end to the base element about a first axis for rotation between a first, locking position and a second, release position. The mechanism further comprises a link element mounted at a first end to a second end of the toggle element about a second axis parallel to the first axis. The first end of the toggle element comprises a first stop and the base element comprises a second stop opposed to the first stop. The first stop and the second stop are in contact when the toggle element is in its locked position, preventing rotational movement of the toggle element in one rotational direction.