Variable Area Nozzle Mechanical Linkage Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft variable area nozzle systems are complex and costly, requiring dedicated actuation systems that increase maintenance and weight, limiting their efficiency and simplicity.
Innovation Solution
A linkage system that mechanically couples the movement of a variable area nozzle with the propulsion system structure, using components like bell cranks, pulleys, and crank arms to change the nozzle's configuration in response to the propulsion system's position, eliminating the need for dedicated actuation systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a dedicated actuation system is used for the variable area nozzle, then the nozzle can be precisely controlled, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the nozzle actuation function with the existing propulsion system structure by using the propulsion system's movement to passively drive the nozzle configuration changes through mechanical linkages (bell cranks, linkages, and arms), eliminating the need for a separate dedicated actuation system while maintaining control precision
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion system structure is given multiple functions: it not only provides thrust but also serves as the actuation mechanism for the variable area nozzle through the mechanical linkage system, allowing one system to perform multiple functions and reducing overall system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated actuation system is used for the variable area nozzle, then the nozzle can be actuated independently, but the weight and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation function is combined with the propulsion system's existing mechanical structure through linkages, bell cranks, and arms that convert propulsion system movement into nozzle configuration changes, eliminating the need for separate actuators and reducing weight
Solution Approach 2:
The propulsion system's own movement is utilized to automatically actuate the nozzle through the mechanical linkage system, allowing the system to serve itself without requiring external power sources or dedicated actuation mechanisms
3Measurement precision
If a complex linkage system with multiple components is used, then the nozzle configuration can be precisely controlled, but the design and manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage system is segmented into discrete, standardized components (bell cranks, individual linkages, crank arms) that can be manufactured separately using conventional processes and then assembled, simplifying manufacturing while maintaining precise control capability
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
Simplifies the design and reduces costs by passively driving the variable area nozzle's movement through the propulsion system's position changes, enhancing efficiency and reducing complexity and weight.
Implementation Method 1
The linkage system includes a driver linkage, a first bell crank, a bridge linkage, a second bell crank, a follower linkage and a crank arm. The first bell crank couples the driver linkage to the bridge linkage. The second bell crank couples the bridge linkage to the follower linkage. The crank arm couples the follower linkage to the flap.
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft system includes a propulsion system structure, a variable area nozzle and a linkage system. The propulsion system structure is moveable between a first position and a second position. The variable area nozzle is fluidly coupled with a duct in the propulsion system structure. The variable area nozzle is moveable between a first configuration and a second configuration. An exit area of the variable area nozzle has a first value when the variable area nozzle is in the first configuration and a second value when the variable area nozzle is in the second configuration. The variable area nozzle includes a flap moveably connected to the propulsion system structure. The linkage system mechanically links the variable area nozzle with the propulsion system structure. The linkage system includes a driver linkage, a first bell crank, a bridge linkage, a second bell crank, a follower linkage and a crank arm.