Linkage Patents (Class 244/99.3)
-
Publication number: 20130119194Abstract: A trailing-edge flap system is described. The trailing-edge flap system includes a trailing-edge flap and a movement device. The movement device includes at least a translatory mover for the translation of the trailing-edge flap and at least a rotational mover for the rotation of the trailing-edge flap.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 10, 2012Publication date: May 16, 2013Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBHInventors: Tom Dostmann, Bernhard Schlipf, Jochen Eichhorn
-
Patent number: 8424801Abstract: A support assembly for deployment and retraction of an aero surface from an aircraft is disclosed. The assembly comprises a guide track, a primary support arm having one end coupled to a carriage mounted on the track such that the primary support arm is rotatable relative to the carriage about multiple axes, and a control arm having one end coupled to the primary support arm and a second end pivotably attachable to a fixed support forming part of the structure of the aircraft. The assembly being configured such that, when the carriage is driven along the guide track, the control arm causes the primary support arm to pivot about said multiple axes to deploy and/or retract an aero surface pivotally attached to an opposite end of the primary support member along an arcuate path.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2011Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventors: Eric Wildman, Simon John Parker, Anthony Bryant, Christian Folkard
-
Patent number: 8418954Abstract: An aircraft wing assembly comprising: a wing; a spoiler pivotally attached to the wing; and a spoiler deployment mechanism. The deployment mechanism comprises a scissor linkage mechanism comprising an upper link pivotally attached to the spoiler at an upper pivot, and a lower link pivotally attached to the wing at a lower pivot and to the upper link at a central pivot. An actuator is pivotally attached to the wing at a proximal pivot and to the scissor linkage mechanism at a distal pivot. The actuator is adjustable between expanded and contracted configurations so as to vary the distance between the proximal and distal pivots. This opens up the angle between the upper and lower links of the scissor linkage mechanism and pushes the spoiler up into the air-stream above the wing.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 2009Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventor: Damian Allen
-
Patent number: 8418955Abstract: An actuation system includes: two hydraulic actuators, each being coupled to a load-bearing structural component and to an elevator, and displaceable relative to the load-bearing structural component for the operation of the elevator; a first control valve device to control the first actuator; a second control valve device to control the second actuator; a control and monitoring unit that determines and transmits appropriate command signals to the control valve devices to execute appropriate control movements for the operation of the actuators; a locking device coupled to the first actuator to secure the first actuator a locked state, which is hydraulically connected with the first hydraulic system and the second hydraulic system via an hydraulic OR-circuit, where in normal operation the locking mechanism is in its unlocked state, and in the event of a failure of both hydraulic systems the locking mechanism secures the first actuator.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2009Date of Patent: April 16, 2013Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventors: Martin Recksiek, Thomas Epple
-
Patent number: 8408500Abstract: An aircraft wing comprising a wing fixed central body, and a leading edge mobile slat (16) designed to be moved in rotation relative to the fixed central body along a circular trajectory inscribed on a sphere with center (C). According to the invention, the wing also comprises a cable carrier chain (30) comprising links (34) articulated to each other through articulation axes (44) that converge towards a single point, the chain being connected at its two ends to the fixed central body and to the mobile slat. Furthermore, the single point is the center (C) of the sphere, located on a rotation axis (42) of the leading edge mobile slat relative to the wing fixed body.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2008Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Sonaca S.A.Inventors: Jean-Philippe Crepin, Xavier Godfroid, Olivier Souchon
-
Publication number: 20130075537Abstract: A trailing edge flap mechanism incorporates a support beam, a flap carrier beam supporting an aerodynamic flap, a first link interconnecting a first and second rotation points and a second link interconnecting third and fourth rotation points. The support beam has a ground connection on a first fixed axis of rotation. A connecting link has a ground connection on a second fixed axis of rotation and is connected to the first link intermediate the first and second rotation points. An actuator is connected with a drive link pivotally engaged to the first link for initial forward and aft movement of a nose profile of the Fowler flap substantially parallel to the wing lower surface with extending aft movement providing a rapidly changing angle of the flap with respect to the wing upper surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2011Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: THE BOEING COMPANYInventors: Seiya Sakurai, James M. Wheaton, Stephen J. Fox, Sharon Xiangdong Che
-
Adjusting device for adjusting a high-lift flap and airfoil wing comprising such an adjusting device
Patent number: 8398019Abstract: An adjusting device for adjusting a flap at an wing of an aircraft includes at least one flap drive for operating the flap and a plurality of drive stations comprising drive struts structured and arranged to movably connect the flap to the wing. The plurality of drive stations includes at least two first drive stations that guide the flap in a defined position in a wing chord direction. The plurality of drive stations includes at least one second drive station at which the flap is moveable in the wing chord direction. The at least one second drive station includes at least one compensation element structured and arranged to compensate constraining forces occurring in the plurality of drive stations due to relative movements between the flap and the wing in the wing chord direction.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2007Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventor: Bernhard Schlipf -
Patent number: 8393570Abstract: The invention relates to a device for moving a trailing edge flap of an aircraft wing, in which device the trailing edge flap comprises one or several flap segments, wherein a first flap segment is movably mounted on the wing and is connected to a first toothed movement element that is moved by means of a first pinion.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2008Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventor: Rainer Gartelmann
-
Patent number: 8376271Abstract: An aircraft actuator is provided that can achieve a significant weight reduction, while securing a sufficient tensile strength and a sufficient buckling strength, even if it is provided with a reaction link in which large bent portions are formed. A reaction link is made of fiber reinforced plastic, and includes a pair of linear portions, a coupling portion, and a pair of bent portions. The cross section at the pair of linear portions, the coupling portion, and the pair of bent portions is formed as a hollow cross section. The outer cross sectional area of the hollow cross section at each of the pair of bent portions is configured to be larger than the outer cross sectional area of the hollow cross section at each of the pair of linear portions.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2010Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Nabtesco CorporationInventors: Makoto Saito, Chris Worrall
-
Publication number: 20120325959Abstract: Adjustable servomechanism assemblies and associated systems and methods. An unmanned aircraft system in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure includes a movable mechanism and a servomechanism assembly operably coupled to the movable mechanism. The system also includes an interface assembly operably coupled to an output shaft of the servo and the movable mechanism. The interface assembly includes an adapter portion carried by the output shaft and an output arm releasably engaged with the adapter portion. The adapter portion includes a first aperture having a non-round surface mated with a non-round surface of the output shaft, and a non-splined, engagement surface. The output arm includes a second aperture sized to receive at least a portion of the outer surface of the adapter portion. The second aperture includes a generally smooth inner surface in contact with and rotatable through 360 degrees relative to the engagement surface of the adapter portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 24, 2012Publication date: December 27, 2012Applicant: Insitu, Inc.Inventor: Clifford Jackson
-
Patent number: 8328134Abstract: A connection element for power transmission between a flap actuator and a flap mounted swivelably on a wing of an aircraft includes a first section joined to the flap actuator and a second section joined to the flap. The first and second sections are formed by a strap made of a fiber composite material.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2008Date of Patent: December 11, 2012Assignee: Eurocopter Deutschland GmbHInventor: Alois Wagner
-
Publication number: 20120305698Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided, including an actuator system that may be connected to a wing frame for controlling an active element. The actuator system may include sliding elements movable along an axis parallel to the span-wise axis of the wing. The sliding elements may be connected to fixed elements and a crank element, the crank element generally comprising a beam element and a cross-axis flexure pivot element. The beam element may be offset from the pivot element so that the crank element is rotatable about the pivot element with a negative stiffness under an external force that tends to pull the sliding elements away from the fixed elements.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2010Publication date: December 6, 2012Applicant: BELL HELICOPTER TEXTRON INC.Inventors: Troy C. Schank, Peter H. Kitzinger, Paul B. Sherrill, Thomas C. Parham, David A. Popelka
-
Publication number: 20120248257Abstract: An mechanism for kinematic guidance of a body during its adjustment on a supporting structure. The body is moved between a refracted position and an extended position while performing a movement in a longitudinal direction in combination with a rotary movement. The mechanism includes first and second transmission levers for coupling to the supporting structure, a base connection lever to which these levers are coupled, third and fourth transmission levers coupled to the base connection lever, an adjusting lever coupled to the third and fourth transmission levers for attachment of the adjustable body, to adjust the body by a movement of the adjusting lever, and a coupling lever coupled to the first or second transmission lever and to the third or fourth transmission lever. During a movement of the adjusting lever, the first and second transmission levers each move opposite to the third and fourth transmission levers.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2012Publication date: October 4, 2012Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBHInventors: Jochen EICHHORN, Tom DOSTMANN, Bernhard SCHLIPF
-
Patent number: 8276841Abstract: A hydraulic actuator includes, but is not limited to a first outflow and a second inflow and outflow as well as a closure device for closing the second inflow and outflow in the direction of outflow. The first outflow an outflowing hydraulic fluid is subjected to flow resistance. When a switching position is reached, the second inflow and outflow is closed in the direction of outflow so that the hydraulic fluid has to be discharged through the first outflow while overcoming the flow resistance. This damps the movement of the hydraulic actuator in the region of an end position.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2010Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbHInventor: Jens Heeren
-
Patent number: 8276842Abstract: A drive arrangement comprising first and second actuators (24) arranged to drive respective output members (22) for movement, first and second synchronization arrangements (34) associated with respective ones of the first and second actuators (24), and a synchronization shaft (36) interconnecting the synchronization arrangements (34).Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2009Date of Patent: October 2, 2012Assignee: Goodrich Actuation Systems LimitedInventor: Jeremy Alan George Kracke
-
Patent number: 8256714Abstract: A modularized airplane includes two separably interconnected modules. A first module, incorporating substantial airplane styles, includes a fuselage portion and at least one wing or stabilizer with an associated control surface. A second module carries a set of essential flight components sufficing airplane operations, including propulsion unit, servo for moving control surface, and power source. Magnetic connectors affixed on the modules facilitate inter-modular structural connection. A control linkage assembly, linking control surface on first module and associated servo on second module, is formed with two portions longitudinally movable and separably connected by two magnetic connectors oppositely affixed on each portion. The structural connection and the servo-to-control surface linkage assembly facilitate substantially effortless inter-modular connections to form a functional airplane, as well as nondestructive inter-modular disconnection.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2008Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Inventor: Jie Zhao
-
Publication number: 20120211594Abstract: Some embodiments pertain to a projectile that includes a casing and at least one fin that extends from the casing. The projectile further includes a drive inside the casing and an adjustment mechanism inside the casing. The adjustment mechanism includes a first gear that engages the drive and a second gear that engages the fin and the first gear. The second gear includes teeth that are different distances from an axis of rotation of the second gear. The teeth of the second gear that engage the first gear may be the farthest from the axis of rotation of the second gear when the fin is aligned with a flight axis of the projectile. The engaging teeth of the second gear get closer to the axis of rotation of the second gear as the fin is maneuvered away from the flight axis of the projectile.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2010Publication date: August 23, 2012Applicant: Raytheon CompanyInventor: John Corradini
-
Publication number: 20120181382Abstract: A plurality of tandem actuators including piston rods in each of which two pistons are provided in series are disposed in parallel. A rod end portion couples the piston rods of the plurality of tandem actuators on the outside of case portions and can be rotatably linked to a control surface. For each of the tandem actuators, first hydraulic chambers on the side opposite to the rod end portion side are in communication with each other in the two piston movement areas, respectively, and second hydraulic chambers on the rod end portion side are in communication with each other in the two pistons areas, respectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2012Publication date: July 19, 2012Applicant: NABTESCO CORPORATIONInventors: Koji ITO, Kazuyuki SUZUKI
-
Patent number: 8220755Abstract: A hinge rib for pivotally connecting an aerodynamic control element such as a spoiler or aileron to an aircraft structure. The hinge rib includes a first hinge rib arm having a grain oriented in a first direction and a second hinge rib arm having a grain oriented in a second direction which is not parallel with the first grain direction. The arms may be formed together from a single piece of material, or more typically they are formed separately before being attached together such that the grain of the first arm is not parallel with the grain of the second arm.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2009Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventors: Kim Sharp, David Hoptroff
-
Patent number: 8210473Abstract: Improvements to the hinge of a folding aircraft wing including a load bearing hinge mechanism with multiple locking mechanisms. The mechanism includes rigid panels that cover the hinge area when the wing is deployed, and the wing itself covers the hinge area when the wing is retracted. A control lever is used to actuate the wing and incorporates safety features to prevent unwanted actuation.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2008Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Terrafugia, Inc.Inventors: Samuel Adam Schweighart, Carl Curtis Dietrich, Andrew Heafitz
-
Publication number: 20120138740Abstract: A control force transmission arrangement for an aircraft is provided. A transmission device has a first and a second force transmission point, and a coupling unit disposed between them. The coupling unit has a first and a second side element and a connecting element. The first and the second side elements are each connected to the first force transmission point and to the connecting element. At least the first side element has an element for altering the length of the side element. The second force transmission point is provided on the connecting element and is adjustable at least between a first and a second position.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 2, 2011Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: EADS Deutschland GmbHInventor: Jost SEIFERT
-
Patent number: 8181908Abstract: An aircraft control surface failsafe hinge configuration is disclosed. The arrangement comprises a drop link configuration which is adapted to attach a control surface to an aircraft structure where the drop link additionally incorporates a failsafe hinge means which provides a backup hinge connection between the control surface and the aircraft structure to which it is attached. The improved failsafe hinge construction may be applied to any aircraft control surface such as an aileron, elevator, vertical tail plane and the like.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2007Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: Airbus Operations LimitedInventors: Guy Mauran, Paul Blades, Richard John Henry Burness
-
Patent number: 8172174Abstract: A hybrid actuator assembly includes an actuator housing, an electromechanical actuator, and a hydraulic actuator. The electromechanical actuator is disposed at least partially within the actuator housing and is adapted to be controllably energized. The electromechanical actuator is configured, upon being controllably energized, to supply a first drive force. The hydraulic actuator is disposed at least partially within the actuator housing and is adapted to receive pressurized hydraulic fluid. The hydraulic actuator is configured, upon receipt of pressurized hydraulic fluid, to supply a second drive force.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2008Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Zdenek Hejda
-
Publication number: 20120091283Abstract: An aircraft control surface operating device is provided for operating a control surface on an aircraft body portion to move between a retracted position and an extended position. The aircraft control surface operating device includes a control surface mounting assembly which movably secures the control surface to the aircraft body portion, a drive arm rotatable about a drive axis relative to the aircraft body portion, an actuator for rotating the drive, and a drive link connecting the drive arm to the control surface mounting assembly. The drive link has a control end connected to the control surface mounting assembly and a driven end connected to the drive arm via a drive bearing joint. The drive link connects the drive arm and the control surface mounting assembly such that rotation of the drive arm is causes extending or retracting movement of the control surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2011Publication date: April 19, 2012Applicant: HONDA PATENTS & TECHNOLOGIES NORTH AMERICA LLCInventors: Minoru Uchida, Hiroshi Yamanouchi
-
Patent number: 8157208Abstract: A landing flap drive system, in one example, includes a first drive motor for operating a landing flap. In this arrangement, the landing flap drive system is integrated in a track of the landing flap such that final assembly and integration of the system are facilitated to a significant extent.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2006Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignees: Airbus Deutchland GmbH, Deutsches Zentrum Fuer Luft—und Raumfahrt E.V. (DLR)Inventors: Martin Recksiek, Christoph Giebeler, Ina Brueckner
-
Patent number: 8152098Abstract: A torque limiter device for an aircraft wing-mounted flap includes a drive input, an output rotatable in response to rotation of the drive input, and a roller-jammer operable in the event that the torque transmitted between the drive input and the output exceeds a predetermined level to apply a braking load to the drive input and/or the output, and a brake device operable to apply a braking load to the roller-jammer device to cause activation thereof.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2009Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Goodrich Actuation Systems LimitedInventor: Kevin Richard Hadley
-
Publication number: 20120080557Abstract: The invention relates to a device (4) for actuating a control surface (2) of an aircraft, comprising:-a frame intended to be mounted fixed in relation to a structure of an aircraft, -a bell crank part (7) mobile in rotation in relation to the frame around an axis of rotation (X, X?) and adapted in order to be connected to a mechanical unit (1) for displacement of the control surface (2), -a slider (6) intended to be connected to a drive member (5), the slider (6) being mobile in translation in relation to the frame according to a direction of translation, parallel to the axis of rotation (X, X?) of the bell crank part (7), -first connecting means (61) between the slider (6) and the bell crank part (7) in order to convert a displacement in translation of the slider (6) generated by the drive member (5) into a displacement in rotation of the bell crank part (7), in order to actuate the mechanical unit (1) for displacement of the control surface (2),an input part (53, 16) able to be driven in rotation by the motType: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2010Publication date: April 5, 2012Inventor: Fernand Rodrigues
-
Patent number: 8132763Abstract: The present invention relates to an aircraft high-lift system with at least one drive unit for operating the high-lift systems of the half wings (half-wing systems) and with at least one overload protection to avoid undesirably high operating torques in the half-wing systems, wherein the overload protection includes a comparator, by means of which the instantaneous values of the operating torques of the half-wing systems are compared and/or a condition caused by the difference of the operating torques is detected, and a limiter connected with the comparator, by means of which the drive unit is blocked, shut down or deactivated, and/or the torque of the drive unit is dissipated into the aircraft structure, when the difference of the operating torques determined in the comparator exceeds a limit value.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2008Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Liebherr-Aerospace Lindenberg GmbHInventor: Bernd Schievelbusch
-
Publication number: 20120025014Abstract: A control system, in particular an aircraft flight control system, having a linkage with a force-transmission link (3), the link having a body (5) having at least one end housing (8) slidably receiving a coupling rod (9) for coupling the link to an adjacent element of the linkage, the housing being closed by an elastically-deformable test member (10) through which the rod passes and that has an inner periphery fastened to the rod and an outer periphery fastened to a wall defining the end housing, and the end housing receiving at least one sensor (11) for sensing relative movement between the rod and the body.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2010Publication date: February 2, 2012Inventors: Arnaud Duyck, Bruno Tilly, François Guillot, Jérôme Piaton
-
Patent number: 8104710Abstract: An actuator arrangement comprises a first screw shaft, a first nut cooperating with the first screw shaft such that rotation of the first screw shaft causes the first nut to translate thereon, a second screw shaft, a second nut cooperating with the second screw shaft such that rotation of the second screw shaft causes the second nut to translate thereon, and first and second linkages connecting the first and second nuts, respectively, to an output member, rotation of the first and second screw shafts to cause translation of the first and second nuts towards one another causing extending movement of the output member and rotation of the first and second screw shafts to cause translation of the first and second nuts away from one another causing retracting movement of the output member.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2008Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Goodrich Actuation Systems LimitedInventors: John Herbert Harvey, Mark Hubberstey, Tony Jones
-
Publication number: 20120012696Abstract: An aircraft flap actuator assembly includes at least one fixed support, at least one track having a curvilinear track surface connected to the fixed support, at least one flap support adapted to traverse the curvilinear track surface, a trailing edge flap connected to the at least one flap support and a flap actuator engaging the at least one flap support.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 14, 2010Publication date: January 19, 2012Inventors: Seiya Sakurai, James M. Wheaton, Stephen J. Fox
-
Publication number: 20120012697Abstract: A flap actuator is provided for controlling movement of a flap on a wing of an aircraft. The flap actuator includes a housing having a leading end and a trailing end. A ball nut is rotatably supported in the housing. A motor has a rotatable drive shaft that is rotatable in first and second opposite directions. A gear assembly translates rotation of the drive shaft to the ball nut. A ball screw extends along a longitudinal axis and has a terminal end operatively connectable to the flap. The ball screw is movable between a first retracted in response to rotation of the ball nut in a first direction and a second extended position in response to rotation of the ball nut in a second direction. A one-way roller clutch is operatively connectable to the ball nut. The roller clutch engages the housing and prevents rotation of the ball nut in a first direction in response to a compressive force on the ball screw by the flap.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2011Publication date: January 19, 2012Inventors: Don R. Cavalier, Aaron M. Klap
-
Patent number: 8052084Abstract: The assembly comprises a first and a second nut intended to cooperate with a screw in particular provided in an adjustable tailplane actuator for an aircraft, and a mechanical connection between the first and the second nut comprising means for fusible driving of the second nut by the first nut, in which the mechanical connection also comprises adjustable spacing means forming a wedge between the first and second nuts.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2008Date of Patent: November 8, 2011Assignee: Goodrich Actuation Systems SASInventors: Isabelle Port-Robach, Raphaël Medina, Christian Dorval, Rui Amaral
-
Publication number: 20110220761Abstract: In a material determining step, the material constituting an actuator and the material constituting a link are determined such that at least one of the materials contains fiber reinforced plastic. In a computing step, a computation model that defines the relationship between a control surface, the actuator, and the link is used to compute the change in gain margin with the change in a rigidity ratio, which is the ratio of the rigidity of the link to the rigidity of the actuator. The rigidities of the actuator and the link are determined in a rigidity determining step based on a result of the above-described computation, the shapes of the actuator and the link are determined in a shape determining step, and the actuator and the link are formed in a formation step, and are assembled in an assembly step.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2011Publication date: September 15, 2011Applicant: NABTESCO CORPORATIONInventors: Toshiaki OGAWA, Koji ITOH, Makoto NAGASHIMA
-
Publication number: 20110220762Abstract: An aircraft wing includes a wing structure, a slat panel mounted on a track, and an actuator mechanism on the wing structure coupled to the track for moving the slat panel between a deployed position and a retracted position. Track roller bearings on the wing structure rotatably contact the track, and side roller bearings on the wing structure rotatably contact at least one side of the track. In another configuration, the actuator mechanism includes a shaft rotatably mounted on the wing structure, an actuator arm coupled to the track by a bearing linkage, and an actuator lever coupled to the shaft by a bearing linkage and to the actuator arm by a bearing linkage. At least one bearing linkage includes a spherical plain bearing.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2011Publication date: September 15, 2011Applicant: ROLLER BEARING COMPANY OF AMERICA, INC.Inventors: Frederick S. Gyuricsko, Maura Simpson
-
Patent number: 8006932Abstract: A pivoting coupling system of a large dihedral empennage to the tail fuselage of an aircraft, in which the empennage includes a right lateral box and a left lateral box arranged at a large dihedral angle in the tail fuselage of the aircraft. The pivoting coupling system including a horizontal central box joining the lateral boxes, and which includes a rear spar; and a linkage for horizontally linking the central box to a frame structure of the tail fuselage of the aircraft, which allow the empennage to rotate vertically about a horizontal linkage shaft between a negative maximum angle of incidence and a positive maximum angle of incidence in response to the actuation of an actuator which is connected to the empennage and to a structural element of the fuselage of the aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2007Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Airbus Operations, S.L.Inventors: Francisco Javier Honorato Ruiz, Angel GarcÃa Sacristán
-
Patent number: 7984880Abstract: Rudder assist mechanisms and methods are capable of being operably connected to an aircraft's rudder control system. The rudder assist mechanisms most preferably have over-the-center spring biasing functions so as to cause either substantially no spring force (i.e., when the linkage is over the spring-bias center) or substantially all spring force (i.e., when the linkage is left or right of the spring-bias center) to be exerted on the rudder control system. The rudder assist mechanism may include a control spring assembly, and a linkage assembly which operably connects the control spring assembly to the rudder control assembly. The linkage assembly is moveable operably between a null position wherein substantially no spring force of the control spring assembly is transferred to the rudder control system by the linkage assembly, and right and left spring-biased positions wherein right and left spring forces of the control spring assembly are transferred to the rudder control system, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2007Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: Embraer-Empresa Brasileira de Aeronautica S.A.Inventor: Ierko de Magalhaes Gomes
-
Publication number: 20110139937Abstract: Apparatus connecting an auxiliary lift foil, such as a flap or slat, to a main lift element. The apparatus comprises: a drop link pivotally coupled to the main lift element by a first hinge and to the auxiliary lift foil by a second hinge, wherein the drop link is substantially rigid between the first and second hinges; and a linkage mechanism pivotally coupled to the auxiliary lift foil by a third hinge which is spaced from the second hinge, and to the main lift element by as fourth hinge. The linkage mechanism comprises: a second link pivotally coupled to the airfoil by the third hinge; a third link pivotally coupled to the drop link and/or the auxiliary lift foil by a fifth hinge; and a lever pivotally coupled to the main lift element by a fourth hinge, to the second link by a sixth hinge, and to the third link by a seventh hinge. The drop link is rotated clockwise about the first hinge.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2011Publication date: June 16, 2011Applicant: Airbus UK LimitedInventor: Claus M. Zeumer
-
Patent number: 7946529Abstract: The use of at least one attachment screw (12) that includes means (14, 15, 17a, 17b, 20) for detecting the secondary path loading of a flight-control actuator, or associated with a bush that includes such means, for the attachment of the top coupling of the secondary path of a flight-control actuator.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2008Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: Goodrich Actuation Systems SASInventors: Jean-Marc Moalic, Pierre Turpin, Philippe Sellier
-
Publication number: 20110108664Abstract: A flap actuator is provided for controlling movement of a flap on a wing of an aircraft. The flap actuator includes a housing having a leading end and a trailing end. A ball nut is rotatably supported in the housing. A motor has a rotatable drive shaft that is rotatable in first and second opposite directions. A gear assembly translates rotation of the drive shaft to the ball nut. A ball screw extends along a longitudinal axis and has a terminal end operatively connectable to the flap. The ball screw is movable between a first retracted in response to rotation of the ball nut in a first direction and a second extended position in response to rotation of the ball nut in a second direction. A one-way roller clutch is operatively connectable to the ball nut. The roller clutch engages the housing and prevents rotation of the ball nut in a first direction in response to a compressive force on the ball screw by the flap.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2009Publication date: May 12, 2011Inventors: Don R. Cavalier, Aaron M. Klap
-
Patent number: 7906749Abstract: A mechanical deployment and actuation system may comprise a rotation module, a pinion module, a rack module, and a bevel module. The rotation module may be configured to couple to a housing and rotate about the principal axis of the rotation module relative to the housing. The pinion module may be configured to couple to the rotation module and selectively rotate about the principal axis of the pinion module relative to the rotation module. The rack module may be configured to dynamically couple to the pinion module and translate along the principal axis of the rack module in response to rotation of the pinion module. The bevel module may be configured to couple to the rotation module and selectively rotate the rotation module, wherein rotation of the rotation module rotates about the principal axis of the rotation module, the rack module, and the pinion module.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2007Date of Patent: March 15, 2011Assignee: Raytheon CompanyInventor: Erik A. Fjerstad
-
Publication number: 20110036944Abstract: An aircraft slat deployment mechanism comprising: a first drive member coupled to the slat at a first pivot point; and a second drive member coupled to the slat at a second pivot point which is offset from the first pivot point. A first rack is provided on the first drive member, and a first pinion is carried by the drive shaft. The first pinion is arranged to transmit mechanical power from the drive shaft to the first drive member via the first rack. A second rack is provided on the second drive member, and a second pinion is carried by the drive shaft. The second pinion has a different radius to the first pinion. The second pinion is arranged to transmit mechanical power from the drive shaft to the second drive member via the second rack, such that the second drive member moves at a different speed to the first drive member.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2009Publication date: February 17, 2011Applicant: AIRBUS UK LIMITEDInventor: Alan Mann
-
Publication number: 20110031347Abstract: An aircraft wing assembly comprising: a wing; a spoiler pivotally attached to the wing; and a spoiler deployment mechanism. The deployment mechanism comprises a scissor linkage mechanism comprising an upper link pivotally attached to the spoiler at an upper pivot, and a lower link pivotally attached to the wing at a lower pivot and to the upper link at a central pivot. An actuator is pivotally attached to the wing at a proximal pivot and to the scissor linkage mechanism at a distal pivot. The actuator is adjustable between expanded and contracted configurations so as to vary the distance between the proximal and distal pivots. This opens up the angle between the upper and lower links of the scissor linkage mechanism and pushes the spoiler up into the air-stream above the wing.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2009Publication date: February 10, 2011Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS LIMITEDInventor: Damian Allen
-
Publication number: 20110006155Abstract: An actuator arrangement comprising a carrier element which is translatable and angularly moveable about a first fixed axis, in use, relative to a wing structure, an actuator arm pivotally mounted to the carrier element, and a support arm pivotally mounted, in use, to the wing structure about a second, fixed pivot axis, wherein the first and second fixed axes are not perpendicular to one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2010Publication date: January 13, 2011Applicant: Goodrich Actuation Systems LimitedInventor: Jeremy Alan George Kracke
-
Patent number: 7866602Abstract: Device for sensing load relief by a secondary path of a flight control actuator having a primary path and a secondary path capable of relieving the load of the primary path in the event of a breakdown thereof, the primary path comprising a screw, the screw terminating in a fastener of the primary path, the secondary path comprising an emergency load relief rod passing through the screw, this rod terminating in a male shape which, when the primary path is carrying the load, is accommodated inside of a female shape of a fastener of the secondary path, characterized in that at least one sensing element is disposed on the male shape terminating the rod, on the female shape or between both of these two shapes, this sensing element being designed to wear down due to the friction between the male shape and the female shape, when the secondary path is loaded and is relieving the load, this sensing element being connected or capable of being connected to means capable of sensing wear on this sensing element and of triType: GrantFiled: February 8, 2008Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Goodrich Actuation Systems SASInventors: Isabelle Port-Robach, Jean-Pierre Raynal, Jean-Marc Moalic
-
Publication number: 20110001015Abstract: A drive arrangement comprising first and second actuators (24) arranged to drive respective output members (22) for movement, first and second synchronisation arrangements (34) associated with respective ones of the first and second actuators (24), and a synchronisation shaft (36) interconnecting the synchronisation arrangements (34).Type: ApplicationFiled: December 21, 2009Publication date: January 6, 2011Applicant: Goodrich Actuation Systems Ltd.Inventor: Jeremy Alan George Kracke
-
Publication number: 20100327111Abstract: A telescopic strut comprises a plurality of hollow members arranged to slide one within another between a retracted and an extended position. Adjacent hollow members are arranged to be electrically connected by one or more electrical connector assemblies as the hollow members move between the retracted and extended positions. Each electrical connector assembly includes an electrically conductive pad on one of the hollow members which is in sliding contact with an electrically conductive strip on the other of the hollow members. The telescopic strut may be used to electrically connect a moveable control surface to a fixed aerofoil structure in an aircraft.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2010Publication date: December 30, 2010Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS LIMITEDInventor: Timothy Sanderson
-
Publication number: 20100308162Abstract: The invention relates to a device for moving a trailing edge flap of an aircraft wing, in which device the trailing edge flap comprises one or several flap segments, wherein a first flap segment is movably mounted on the wing and is connected to a first toothed movement element that is moved by means of a first pinion.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 21, 2008Publication date: December 9, 2010Applicant: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBHInventor: Rainer Gartelmann
-
Patent number: 7837144Abstract: A fluid contact surface actuation system for a vehicle, including a first fluid contact surface constructed and arranged to act against a first fluid passing over the first fluid contact surface; and a first fluid actuator coupled to the first fluid contact surface to move the first fluid contact surface between a first position and a second position to enable control of the vehicle in a predetermined manner, the first fluid actuator having a first resilient bladder that receives a second fluid such that pressure of the second fluid moves the first bladder between a contracted configuration and an expanded configuration.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2006Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignees: Techno-Sciences, Inc., University of MarylandInventors: Curt S. Kothera, Benjamin K. S. Woods, Jayant Sirohi, Norman M. Wereley, Peter C. Chen
-
Publication number: 20100264263Abstract: An integrated load sensing system includes a housing including a coupling pin portion thereof. A bridge circuit includes a set of strain gauges bonded to the coupling pin portion. A bridge circuit excitation, error correction, and amplification (BCEECA) subsystem is operatively connected to the bridge circuit for receiving indications of shear load from the strain gauges, correcting signal error, and amplifying the indications of shear load. The BCEECA subsystem provides amplified output signals. A power conditioning module is operatively connected to the BCEECA subsystem for receiving power from an external power supply and conditioning power to an appropriate state for driving the bridge circuit as well as an appropriate state for error correction and amplification circuitry within the BCEECA subsystem. A logic module compares the amplified output signals to a predetermined signal threshold and provides latching of enunciation in accordance with a selected delay after the threshold is surpassed.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 19, 2009Publication date: October 21, 2010Applicant: ROCKWELL COLLINS, INC.Inventors: MILAD A. SHAHEEN, Andrew M. Wright