Abstract: A thrust vectoring mechanism to vector thrust and control discharge throat area includes four or more vanes mounted across the outlet of a nozzle in a cascade arrangement. The mechanism further includes a rod to control pivoting of each of the vanes that may be selectively rotated with one or more actuators. The rod includes threading. The vanes each include a drive member that is either toothed to engage the rod threading or defines a camming relationship with a coupling member threaded on the rod. The rod threading, drive members, and coupling members may be arranged to define different pivoting schedules for each of the vanes so that a generally constant throat area may be maintained over a given vector directional range of the vanes. The outlet may be generally rectangular in cross-section and a strut may be mounted across the outlet perpendicular to the pivot axes of the vanes to house the rod, drive members, and/or coupling members.

Abstract: A thrust vectoring system comprising a working fluid source mounted to an aircraft, and a vectoring nozzle connected to the working fluid source which has an extendable conduit defining a passage from an inlet to an outlet. The passage is adjustable so that the direction of the working fluid exiting the outlet is different than the working fluid entering the inlet when the conduit of the vectoring nozzle is extended. This conduit provides a way to change the direction of working fluid exiting the nozzle and correspondingly change the thrust vector of the aircraft. A directing member such as a guide vane or door is mounted to the conduit adjacent the outlet to further direct the working fluid exiting the outlet. Directing members provide a way to refine the thrust vector without changing the extension of the segmented conduit. Another aspect of the present invention is to provide an adapter to connect the vectoring nozzle to a working fluid source with an annular outlet.