Controller Moves Into Fluid Path From Position Closing One Outlet Patents (Class 239/265.29)
  • Patent number: 10442543
    Abstract: The invention relates to an engine cowling of an aircraft gas turbine which has a rear area that comprises at least two doors that are arranged at the bottom area of the rear area of the engine cowling and are to be opened by means of overhead hinges, wherein the hinges are arranged so as to be tilted with respect to the engine axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2019
    Assignee: ROLLS-ROYCE DEUTSCHLAND LTD & CO KG
    Inventor: Predrag Todorovic
  • Patent number: 10400621
    Abstract: A gas turbine engine includes a nacelle assembly having a core nacelle defined about an engine axis and a fan nacelle assembly mounted at least partially around the core nacelle to define a fan bypass flow path. The fan nacelle assembly includes a fan duct nacelle section and a fan nozzle nacelle section moveable relative to the fan duct nacelle section. A thrust reverser system includes a plurality of pivot doors movable relative to the fan nacelle assembly between stowed and deployed positions. A variable area fan nozzle is in communication with the fan bypass flow path. A first actuator is mounted to the fan duct nacelle section to actuate the pivot door thrust reverser system, and a second actuator is mounted to the fan duct nacelle section to move the fan nozzle nacelle section relative to the fan duct nacelle section to vary a fan nozzle exit area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Nigel David Sawyers-Abbott, Constantino V. Loffredo
  • Patent number: 10378479
    Abstract: A turbofan engine is provided having a fan and a core in flow communication with the fan. The turbofan engine also includes a nacelle assembly enclosing the fan and at least a portion of the core to define a bypass passage with the core. The nacelle assembly includes a fan cowl extending around the fan and a thrust reverser system. The thrust reverser system is movable between a fully stowed position, a partially deployed position, and a fully deployed position. The thrust reverser system is configured to be held in the partially deployed position to allow an additional amount of airflow to exit from the bypass passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Matthew Timothy Franer, Brandon Wayne Miller
  • Patent number: 10344709
    Abstract: A system and method for reducing idle thrust in a translating cowl reverser system is provided. The provided system and method provide a partial deployment, or thrust reverser system intermediate position for a translating cowl thrust reverser system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Danis Burton Smith, Shawn Alstad, Robert Romano, Mark Knowles, David Robinson
  • Patent number: 10316793
    Abstract: A thrust reverser actuator system fitting and a v-blade may be coupled to a track beam. A portion of the load between a translating sleeve and a fan case may be transmitted through the track beam. The thrust reverser actuator system fitting may comprise an integral v-blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2019
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventor: Sara C. Crawford
  • Patent number: 10309341
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for a formed thrust reverser cascade. The formed thrust reverser cascade may be coupled to an aircraft propulsor and may include a first portion disposed at a first angle to a portion of the aircraft propulsor and a second portion disposed at a second angle to the first portion. The formed thrust reverser cascade may be circumferentially disposed around a core engine of the aircraft propulsor. The formed thrust reverser cascades may be retrofitted to aircraft propulsors using linear thrust reverser cascade and may increase airflow through the formed thrust reverser cascade due to a greater throat area as compared to the linear thrust reverser cascade. Alternatively, the formed thrust reverser cascades may allow for shorter cascades while retaining the same performance, thus resulting in shorter nacelles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Naimishkumar B. Harpal, Chen Chuck
  • Patent number: 10302044
    Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a system associated with a thrust reverser of an aircraft, comprising: a set of cascades incorporating a track, the track including a first track end and a second track end, a blocker door, and a link including a first link end coupled to the track and a second link end coupled to the blocker door, where the cascades are configured to translate between a stowed position and a deployed position to cause the first link end to traverse the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventor: Johann S. Schrell
  • Patent number: 10294893
    Abstract: A system and method for monitoring a thrust reverser system are provided. The embodiments described herein utilize sensors located proximate locks comprising a thrust reverser locking system. The provided system and method detect deflection and displacement proximate the locks to determine when individual locks have failed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2019
    Assignee: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Danis Burton Smith, Robert Romano, Kevin K. Chakkera
  • Patent number: 10226651
    Abstract: A test cell for an aircraft turbojet, wherein the test cell comprises a U-shaped configuration, with a passageway in the form of an elongated corridor, an inlet chimney, and an outlet chimney. The corridor includes a securing area with a securing arm for holding the turbojet during its test. The passageway furthermore reveals an upstream shutter and a downstream shutter, the two shutters including one pivoting flap or a series of pivoting flaps. In the event of a fire, the shutters close due to autonomous return means. Gravity allows the flap(s) to come down to the closed position and to confine the turbojet in order to rapidly stifle the fire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2019
    Assignee: Safran Aero Boosters SA
    Inventors: Nicolas Raimarckers, Gaetano Taccogna
  • Patent number: 10227951
    Abstract: An engine assembly includes a nacelle configured to at least partially surround an engine and a thrust reverser coupled to the nacelle. The thrust reverser includes: a thrust-reversing element movable relative to the nacelle between a stowed position and a deployed position; a hydraulic actuator operably coupled to move the thrust-reversing element; and a fluid control system configured to operate the hydraulic actuator. The fluid control system includes: a directional control unit including a directional control valve operable to selectively route fluid between a pressurized fluid source, the actuator, and a fluid return reservoir; one or more bypass fluid lines providing fluid communication between the actuator and the fluid return reservoir independent of the directional control valve; and a flow limiter residing between the pressurized fluid source and the directional control valve, the flow limiter configured to inhibit a pressure draw by the actuator from surpassing a predetermined threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2019
    Assignee: Woodward, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph Thomas Kopecek
  • Patent number: 10184426
    Abstract: An assembly is provided for an aircraft propulsion system. This assembly includes a thrust reverser cascade, a fan ramp fairing and a blocker door. The thrust reverser cascade extends along an axial centerline from a forward cascade end to an aft cascade end. The fan ramp fairing is disposed at the forward cascade end. The fan ramp fairing is configured with a fairing surface that provides a forward boundary for bypass air flowing into the thrust reverser cascade during a first mode of operation. The blocker door is configured to completely axially overlap the fairing surface during a second mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventor: Johann S. Schrell
  • Patent number: 10138843
    Abstract: A thrust reverser operable within a flowpath defined in-part by a surface carried by a fixed structure includes a translating sleeve constructed and arranged to move between first and second positions and a blocker door pivotally engaged to the translating sleeve for pivotal movement between a first state and a second state. A drag link assembly of the thrust reverser includes a base joint, a mid joint, and a distal joint. A base link extends between the base and mid joints, and a drag link extends between the mid and distal joints. The base joint operably connects the base link to the fixed structure, the mid joint operably connects the base link to the drag link, and the distal joint operably connects the drag link to the blocker door. The base joint and the mid joint are disposed beneath the surface when the blocker door is in the first state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: ROHR, INC.
    Inventor: Timothy Gormley
  • Patent number: 10094286
    Abstract: A gas turbine engine includes a nacelle, a lower bifurcation structure, and a heat exchanger. The nacelle extends circumferentially around an engine core and defines a fan bypass duct that is substantially annular between an inner wall and an outer wall. The lower bifurcation structure extends between the inner wall and the outer wall, bifurcating the fan bypass duct. The lower bifurcation structure defines a bifurcation duct extending along a central axis of the lower bifurcation structure. A heat exchanger is positioned in the bifurcation duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2018
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Matthew J. Forcier
  • Patent number: 10087842
    Abstract: A turbojet engine nacelle includes a fixed structure, which has a fan casing of the turbojet engine and a front frame mounted downstream of the fan casing and directly or indirectly supporting cascade vanes. The front frame is able to collaborate with a thrust reverser cowling sliding between a closed position covering the flow-diverting means and an open position exposing this flow-diverting means. At least one reinforcing structure of the engine nacelle transmits load between the fan casing and the front frame. The reinforcing structure extends along the longitudinal axis of the nacelle and supports a third line of defense and/or an inhibiting device between the front frame and the thrust reverser cowling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2018
    Assignee: AIRCELLE
    Inventor: Pierre Caruel
  • Patent number: 10072609
    Abstract: In various embodiments, the thrust vectoring systems described herein create variable reverse thrust during a landing event. The reverse thrust may be varied based on manual inputs, dynamically changing operating events, or a landing duty cycle. In various embodiments, the thrust vectoring systems comprise a movable shelf that is capable of adjusting a directing a fluid flow to create a variable reverse thrust which may reduce the risk of foreign object ingestion in the engine at lower ground speeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Assignee: ROHR, INC.
    Inventor: Norman J. James
  • Patent number: 9970388
    Abstract: A pivot thrust reverser includes a first tandem pivot door subassembly comprising an inner panel and an outer panel. The inner panel and outer panel are connected by a first sliding rail. A second tandem pivot door subassembly is included comprising an inner panel and an outer panel. The inner panel and outer panel are connected by a second sliding rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Jesse M. Chandler, Gabriel L. Suciu
  • Patent number: 9926884
    Abstract: A nacelle is provided comprising, a thrust reverser comprising a translating sleeve configured to translate between a stowed position and a deployed position, the translating sleeve comprising a slat cutout for clearance, and a slat door disposed at least partially in the slat cutout in response to the thrust reverser being in the stowed position, wherein the slat door is configured to move in response to the thrust reverser being in the deployed position to expose a portion of the slat cutout to accept a portion of a deployed forward wing slat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2018
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventors: Sara Christine Crawford, Michael Aten, Anthony Lacko
  • Patent number: 9920709
    Abstract: Aspects of the disclosure are directed to a thrust reverser of an aircraft, comprising: a wall having a first surface that partially forms a flow channel associated with an air flow, a blocker door having a second surface that partially forms the flow channel, and a dielectric elastomeric device that is configured to selectively expand and contract within a cavity formed between the wall and the blocker door where the cavity is substantially radially adjacent to the flow channel when the thrust reverser is in a stowed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2018
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventors: Joel H. Frank, Lubomir A. Ribarov
  • Patent number: 9856825
    Abstract: A bypass turbojet engine nacelle that forms a fan casing includes a first, upstream, streamlining element and a second streamlining element that forms a jet pipe. The second element can move translationally between a position ensuring aerodynamic continuity of the nacelle and a downstream position uncovering flow reversal openings. A thrust reverser device is housed in the nacelle and includes flow reverser flaps and cascades of vanes providing radial guidance for the flow. The cascades of vanes providing radial guidance for the flow can move in translation along the axis of the nacelle between a retracted position into the first steamlining element and an active flow-guidance position, the second streamlining element being secured to the cascades of vanes, the reverser flaps being mounted to rotate about axes that are transverse with respect to the axis of the nacelle and secured to the cascades of vanes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2018
    Assignee: SNECMA
    Inventor: Francois Gallet
  • Patent number: 9834313
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a front frame for an aircraft nacelle comprising a turbojet mounted on a suspension strut, said nacelle comprising a thrust reverser including an actuator designed to open a thrust reversal cowling. The front frame comprises a tubular torsion box, a first straight attachment edge intended to attach the box to a turbojet casing and a second straight attachment edge intended to attach the box to air flow diversion means. The front frame is arranged to transmit tensile and compressive loads between the turbojet casing and the air flow diversion means and torsion loads absorbed by the suspension strut. The front frame is characterized in that the tubular torsion box has a semi-elliptical or elliptical cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: AIRCELLE
    Inventors: Xavier Cazuc, Jean-Philippe Joret
  • Patent number: 9783283
    Abstract: In order to limit the number of openings in an aircraft fuselage and to reduce the mass thereof, the invention makes provision for an item of aircraft fuselage equipment which is intended to be mounted in an opening of the fuselage, the item of equipment being configured to block/release an access passage which affords access to the inner side of the aircraft and which also comprises a discharge control valve for pressurization air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignees: Airbus Operations SAS, Airbus SAS
    Inventors: Marc Tomasi, Patrick Lieven, Romain Delahaye, Matthieu De Kergommeaux, Laurent Lache, Didier Poirier
  • Patent number: 9784213
    Abstract: A blocker door for a gas turbine engine thrust reverser having a tray with a base and sidewalls extending about the base to define a volume, the volume being closed by a cover that extends beyond the periphery of the tray. The extension of the cover beyond the periphery provides a sealing feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: ROLLS-ROYCE DEUTSCHLAND LTD & CO KG
    Inventor: Predrag Todorovic
  • Patent number: 9784214
    Abstract: Aspects are directed to a system that includes an outer structure of a thrust reverser, a blocker door, and a plurality of four-bar mechanisms arranged in series with one another that couple the outer structure and the blocker door. Aspects are directed to a system for a thrust reverser of an aircraft that includes a blocker door, a kinematic mechanism configured to actuate the blocker door, and a pressure shelf, where the blocker door is configured to reside below the pressure shelf in proximity to a duct of the thrust reverser, and where at least a portion of the kinematic mechanism is configured to reside above the pressure shelf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy Gormley
  • Patent number: 9783315
    Abstract: A nacelle includes at least a first cowling which at least partially defines an inlet of the nacelle and which at least partially defines an outlet of the nacelle. The first cowling can include a unitary portion that extends continuously from the inlet to the outlet. The nacelle also includes a second cowling that at least partially defines the inlet and which translates relative to the first cowling. The nacelle can include a third cowling that at least partially defines the outlet and translates relative to the first cowling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: ROHR, INC.
    Inventor: Norman John James
  • Patent number: 9771894
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a thrust reverser system may comprise a first cascade, a second cascade, an actuator, and a structural connecting member. The actuator may be radially disposed between the first cascade and the second cascade. The structural connecting member may be adjacent the actuator. The structural connecting member may be configured to structurally join the first cascade and the second cascade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Ray Aten, Adam Stein
  • Patent number: 9765729
    Abstract: A fan ramp for use in a thrust reverser portion of a nacelle is disclosed. The nacelle is included in a propulsion system. The fan ramp extends circumferentially about an axial fan ramp centerline. The fan ramp includes a forward edge, an aft edge, and a first blocker door pocket. The forward edge is disposed proximate an aft end of a fan case. The fan case at least partially surrounds a fan section of a gas turbine engine. The aft edge is disposed proximate a forward end of an array of cascades. The array of cascades is operable to permit a bypass airstream to pass there through during a thrust reversing operation. The first blocker door pocket is operable to receive at least a portion of a forward edge of a first blocker door included in the nacelle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Aten, Milan Mitrovic
  • Patent number: 9726110
    Abstract: An aircraft propulsion system may include a generally annular fan case defined by a fan configured to be disposed at a forward end thereof and a stator blade array configured to be disposed at an aft end thereof, a thrust reversing assembly comprising at least a portion of the fan case, the fan case comprising a generally annular cascade array, and/or a sleeve situated at least partially about the cascade array, the sleeve configured to deploy to expose the cascade array. The aircraft propulsion system may further comprise a blocker door coupled to at least one of the cascade array and an inner surface of the fan case, the blocker door configured to deploy to redirect airflow through the cascade array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: ROHR, INC.
    Inventor: Norman J. James
  • Patent number: 9670875
    Abstract: Thrust reversers and methods to provide reverse thrust are disclosed. An example thrust reverser includes a cascade to direct air from an interior volume of an engine nacelle to generate reverse thrust with respect to a direction of travel, and an air extractor to extract a portion of air approaching the cascade from within the interior volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Kurt Erik Acheson, Chen Chuck
  • Patent number: 9631578
    Abstract: A pivot thrust reverser includes a first pivot door forming a first portion of a nacelle when stowed and second pivot door forming a second portion of the nacelle when stowed. The first pivot door and second pivot door each form a portion of a surface of a bypass duct when in a stowed position. In the deployed position the first pivot door and the second pivot door circumferentially surround a portion of an inner surface of a bypass duct such that when the pivot thrust reverser is deployed during engine operation a fan bypass stream is redirected while both a core stream and a nacelle ventilation stream flow in substantially the same manner as when the pivot thrust reverser is stowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Gabriel L. Suciu, Jesse M. Chandler, T. David Bomzer
  • Patent number: 9617955
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a cascade thrust reverser providing that when a sliding cowl and a flap are in a direct jet position, a hook is held in engagement with another hook and the flap is immobilized inside of a housing of the sliding cowl by a stem of a telescopic connecting rod subjected to pre-stress generated by a compressed spring located in the body of the connecting rod. When the sliding cowl starts to slide from the direct jet position toward the reverse jet position, the hooks disengage each other and the stem engages with an extension in the body of the connecting rod, so that the flap is rotated from the direct jet position toward the reverse jet position due to the tensile force exerted by the stem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: AIRCELLE
    Inventors: Vincent Peyron, Laurent Georges Valleroy, Franck Depoortere
  • Patent number: 9611808
    Abstract: A thrust reverser of a nacelle for a turbofan engine has a translating structure and a blocker door device capable of diverting a bypass flowpath for reversing propulsion direction. The translating structure moves axially between a forward position and a rearward position and thereby drives a compound motion of a blocker door of the blocker door device that moves between respective stowed and deployed states. A lock mechanism of the thrust reverser may be utilized in combination with a link-less linkage and is orientated between the blocker door and a stationary member that may include vanes that divert bypass flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy Gormley
  • Patent number: 9587582
    Abstract: A method of fabricating a bonded cascade assembly of a thrust reverser for an aircraft nacelle. The method may include inserting individual turning vanes between spaced apart elongated stiffeners at an aft end thereof and sliding the turning vanes toward a front frame piece attached to or integrally formed with forward ends of the elongated stiffeners. The elongated stiffeners may have inner and outer flanges for trapping and limiting radial movement of the turning vanes. The method may further include bonding the turning vanes to the structural frame with a structural adhesive and attaching a closeout cap to the aft ends of each of the elongated stiffeners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Spirit Aerosystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Henry A. Schaefer, Mark A. Wadsworth
  • Patent number: 9518534
    Abstract: A turbine engine system includes a nacelle and a thrust reverser. The nacelle includes a first portion and a second portion that are arranged along an axis. The second portion of the nacelle moves axially relative to the first portion of the nacelle. The thrust reverser includes a blocker door and a linkage that links the blocker door to the first portion of the nacelle. The blocker door is located within and pivotally connected to the second portion of the nacelle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2016
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventor: Curtis M. Kusel
  • Patent number: 9458793
    Abstract: An assembly includes a suspension pylon and a thrust reverser which has vanes for deflecting flow and a cowl able to move between an open position and a closed position by an actuator. The thrust reverser further includes rails able to slide in slideways. In particular, the actuator is disposed in line with a corresponding rail. The actuator may be an actuator having a rotating nut connected to an endless screw or an actuator suitable for pulling on the corresponding rail or on the corresponding slideway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: AIRCELLE
    Inventors: Nicolas Dezeustre, Olivier Kerbler, Herve Hurlin, Pierre Moradell-Casellas
  • Patent number: 9448557
    Abstract: The invention relates to a control system for at least one actuator (6) for the cowlings of a thrust inverter in a turbojet engine, that comprises an assembly of actuation and/or control components. A control means (9) is provided for detecting the failure of an actuation and/or control component (7, 16, 13), for determining the blocking or non-blocking character of the failure for the system operation and, in case of a non-blocking failure, for switching from a nominal operation mode to a failure-adaptation operation mode in which the failure of the actuation and/or control component (7, 16, 13) is compensated at least partially by a modified instruction of the other actuation and/or control components (7, 16, 13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Assignee: SAFRAN NACELLES
    Inventor: Hakim Maalioune
  • Patent number: 9371799
    Abstract: Thrust-reverser assemblies that utilize active flow-control and systems and methods including the same are disclosed herein. The thrust-reverser assemblies define a forward-thrust configuration and a reverse-thrust configuration. The thrust-reverser assemblies include a bullnose fairing that defines a portion of a reverser duct and an active flow-control device. The active flow-control device is located to energize a boundary layer fluid flow within a boundary layer that is adjacent to the bullnose fairing to resist separation of the boundary layer from the bullnose fairing when the thrust-reverser assembly is in the reverse-thrust configuration. The methods include flowing a thrust-reverser fluid stream through the reverser duct to generate the boundary layer and energizing a boundary layer fluid flow within the boundary layer with an active flow-control device to resist separation of the boundary layer from the bullnose fairing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Nathan Owen Packard, Daniel Paul Brzozowski, Zachariah B. Vandemark, Hin-Fan M. Lau, Michael L. Sangwin, Frederick W. Roos
  • Patent number: 9260194
    Abstract: A thrust reverser actuator gimbal assembly for mounting a thrust reverser actuator to fixed structure of the thrust reverser is disclosed. The thrust reverser actuator gimbal assembly may comprise a gimbal, first and second gimbal pins mounted to the gimbal and defining a first pivot axis, the first and second gimbal pins adapted to form a pivotal joint with the fixed structure of the thrust reverser, third and fourth gimbal pins mounted to the gimbal and defining a second pivot axis normal to the first pivot axis, the third and fourth gimbal pins adapted to form a pivotal joint with the thrust reverser actuator, wherein the first and second gimbal pins each include a shaft and a flange integrally formed together, the flange including a pair of bores for receiving a fastener to fasten the respective gimbal pin to the thrust reverser fixed structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventors: Jay Francisco, Jimmy Kee
  • Patent number: 9255547
    Abstract: A turbine engine includes an engine core bounded by a bypass duct, a first portion of the bypass duct defined by a fan casing having a radially inner wall and a radially outer wall, a second portion of the bypass duct defined by a radially inner wall and a radially outer wall, a third portion of the bypass duct provided as at least one access door comprising a flow guide structure; and a thrust reverser mechanism coupled to the fan casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2016
    Assignee: ROLLS-ROYCE PLC
    Inventor: Peter Beardsley
  • Patent number: 9233757
    Abstract: A nacelle is configured to be coupled to an underside of a wing so as to form a clearance space therebetween. The nacelle includes at least a first cowling which at least partially defines an inlet of the nacelle and which at least partially defines an outlet of the nacelle. The first cowling can include a unitary portion that extends continuously from the inlet to the outlet. The first cowling can also include a flattened surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2016
    Assignee: ROHR, INC.
    Inventors: Norman John James, Alan Binks, Michael J Layland
  • Patent number: 9217392
    Abstract: A vortex cannon based on pulse detonation engine comprises a combustion chamber, a fuel source, an oxidizer source, a purge gas source, a valve allowing delivery of fuel from the fuel source to the combustion chamber, a valve allowing deliver of either oxidizer or purge gas from the oxidizer and purge gas sources to the combustion chamber, an ignition source for the combustion chamber for initiating detonation of fuel and oxidizer, and a conical barrel outlet from the combustion chamber. The combustion chamber is configured for control over the detonation front. A control system provides for varying the rate and quantity of fuel and oxidizer injected to the combustion chamber for varying the frequency and strength of pulse generation. Ring vortices may be generated either in single pulses or at high rates of fire which maintain a consistent track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Inventor: Curtis E. Graber
  • Patent number: 9206765
    Abstract: The invention relates to a thrust reversing device (20) that includes at least one mobile cowling (30) mounted in translation in a direction substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of a nacelle, capable of moving alternatively from a closing position on which it enables the aerodynamic continuity of the nacelle into an opening position in which it opens a passage in the nacelle for the bypassed flow, wherein said mobile cowling (30) also includes as an extension at least one variable nozzle section (40) including at least one panel (41) mounted so as to be capable of rotation, the panel (41) being adapted for pivoting towards at least one position entailing a variation in the nozzle section (40) on the one hand, and pivoting towards a position in which it blocks a cold flow jet (13) formed between a fixed structure of a turbojet fairing (12 and the nacelle on the other hand, wherein the mobile cowling (30) and the panel (41) are associated with actuation means (50) capable of activating the respective t
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2015
    Assignee: AIRCELLE
    Inventor: Guy Bernard Vauchel
  • Patent number: 9181898
    Abstract: A thrust reverser includes a slider movable along an actuator shaft. An inner linkage is mounted to the slider and the inner thrust reverser door and an outer linkage is mounted to the slider and the outer thrust reverser door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2015
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Jay Bhatt
  • Patent number: 9086034
    Abstract: An aircraft engine thrust reverser cascade assembly includes a plurality of circumferentially spaced cascade segments, each cascade segment including a plurality of spaced vanes, including an aft-most vane, and rails defining a series of cells or air passages therebetween. The cascade assembly also includes an aft cascade ring removably attached to the aft ends of the cascade segments. A flow deflection shelf is mounted to each of the cascade segments and includes a deflector portion that at least partially extends forward of a group of cells of the cascade segments along which the flow deflection shelf is mounted. The deflector portion is configured to at least partially redirect at least a portion of a volume of air forwardly as the air outwardly passes through the group of cells of the cascade segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2015
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Ray Aten, Sara Christine Crawford
  • Patent number: 8955305
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the self-calibration of electric jacks (6a, 6b) capable of actuating a mobile member (2) of a turbojet nacelle (1) and connected to at least one position measuring member, characterized in that it comprises the steps of: moving the jack(s) into a retracted position corresponding to a first position of the mobile member, storing one or more position values fed back by the position measuring member for the jack(s) in said retracted position; moving the jack(s) into an extended position corresponding to a second position of the mobile member; storing one or mom position values fed back by the position measuring member for the jack(s) in said extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Aircelle
    Inventors: Thierry Marin Martinod, Hakim Maalioune
  • Patent number: 8939401
    Abstract: A nacelle for a turbojet engine includes an air inlet forward section, a median section surrounding a fan of the turbojet engine, an aft section equipped with a thrust reverser system, a power control unit able to convert a high voltage electric supply into an electric supply towards an electromechanical actuator, and a drive unit for the power control unit which is distinct and separate from the latter and has a control input and a drive output to be connected to the power control unit. The thrust reverser system includes a mobile cowl which, under action of an electromechanical actuator, is able to move from a closed position to an open position in which the mobile cowl opens a passage in the nacelle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Aircelle
    Inventors: David Pereira, Jean Lamarre, Philippe Vancon, Manuel Sanchez
  • Patent number: 8875486
    Abstract: A guide system for translating components of an aircraft engine nacelle includes a track assembly and a slider assembly. The track assembly includes a track guide member and a track liner engaged therewith. The track guide member includes a track channel configured to receive the track liner. The track liner defines an interior surface and includes a projection portion projecting inwardly of the track channel to define a convex surface. The slider assembly translatably engages the track assembly and includes a slider member having a head portion configured to be received within the track channel. The head portion defines a concave surface substantially corresponding to the convex surface of the track liner and is configured to mate therewith. The slider member further includes an extension portion extending from the head portion and outwardly of the track assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen Michael Roberts
  • Patent number: 8869507
    Abstract: A nacelle assembly for a high-bypass gas turbine engine includes a fan nacelle that includes a first fan nacelle section and a second fan nacelle section, the second fan nacelle section movable relative to the first fan nacelle section. A cascade array is mounted to the first fan nacelle section for movement relative thereto between a stored position and a deployed position, the stored position locates the cascade array at least partially within the first fan nacelle section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas G. Cloft, Robert L. Gukeisen
  • Patent number: 8793973
    Abstract: The invention relates to a thrust reverser (1) for the nacelle of a dual-flow turbine engine, in which the bypass means (4) and the actuation jacks (22) of the sliding cowling (2) and of the reverse flaps (20) are arranged in two substantially parallel planes arranged above one another in the radial direction of the nacelle. The invention also relates to a nacelle for a dual-flow turbine engine that comprises such a thrust reverser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Aircelle
    Inventor: Guy Bernard Vauchel
  • Patent number: 8783010
    Abstract: A thrust reverser with doors having at least one stationary structure is provided, on which at least one door is mounted pivoting between a closed position in which the door closes the reverser and makes up an outer cowling part, and an open position in which the door opens a passage in the stationary structure and can at least partially block a flow of air generated by a turbojet engine so as to reorient the door. The stationary structure includes at least two sets of cascade vanes that can be covered by the door when in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Aircelle
    Inventors: Denis Guillois, Laurent Albert Blin, Löic Chapelain
  • Patent number: 8769926
    Abstract: A thrust reversal device for a turbojet engine nacelle is provided that includes a deflection means and at least one cowl moveable relative to at least one fixed structure including at least one at least partly peripheral front frame and equipped with means for connection to a corresponding upstream portion. The front frame has a deflection edge having an upstream extension forming a deformable flap intended to become an aerodynamic interface with the corresponding upstream portion to which is attached the front frame, and in that a portion of the moveable cowl is conformed so as to, in the closing position, interface with said upstream attachment portion by forcing withdrawal of the deformable flap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Aircelle
    Inventors: Guy Bernard Vauchel, Jean-Philippe Joret