An epicyclic gear assembly includes: a sun gear rotatable about an axis (A); a plurality of planetary gears arranged around and in meshing engagement with the sun gear such that rotation of the sun gear about its axis causes corresponding rotation of each of the planetary gears about their own axes; and an outer ring gear arranged around and in meshing engagement with the plurality of planetary gears such that rotation of the planetary gears causes rotation of the outer ring gear about the axis A and relative to the fixed outer rings. The assembly also includes a backlash reduction mechanism between the planetary gears and the outer ring gear. The backlash reduction mechanism includes a planetary gear carrier with a plurality of carrier segments each carrying a respective one of the planetary gears, the segments together defining an annular carrier having a bore therethrough.
An aircraft spoiler system includes a spoiler, a motor arranged to drive movement of the spoiler between a retracted and a deployed position, a power supply connector for connection to an external power supply, and a movement limiting portion. The movement limiting portion is selectively engageable. It is arranged, when engaged, to enable movement of the spoiler towards the retracted position and to prevent movement towards the deployed position. The movement limiting portion comprises a mechanical actuator actuatable to move between a first position and a second position. Actuation of the mechanical actuator to the second position disengages the movement limiting portion. In the second position, the mechanical actuator obstructs the power supply connector such that the mechanical actuator cannot be actuated to the second position.
A system for identifying a failure of the primary load path in an actuator. The actuator includes a screw shaft and a nut assembly moveable along the screw shaft. The nut assembly comprises a primary nut for transmitting load through the actuator along a primary load path, and a secondary nut for transmitting load through the actuator along a secondary load path. The nut assembly is configured such that, in normal operation, the secondary nut is not engaged with the screw shaft and load is transmitted through the actuator along the primary load path, and such that, upon failure of the primary load path, the secondary nut is configured to engage the screw shaft and transmit load through the actuator along the secondary load path. The system includes a strain gauge configured to be mounted to the actuator and to measure vibrations of the actuator.
B64C 13/28 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical
B64D 45/00 - Aircraft indicators or protectors not otherwise provided for
B64F 5/60 - Testing or inspecting aircraft components or systems
G01B 7/16 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of electric or magnetic techniques for measuring the deformation in a solid, e.g. by resistance strain gauge
A rotary electromechanical actuator, EMA, includes a rotary part for rotation about an axis and a fixed part relative to which the rotary part rotates. The EMA further includes: a hard stop assembly with one or more hard stop members mounted to the EMA fixed part and one or more abutment members mounted to the rotary part and arranged to contact the one or more hard stop members at a hard stop end rotary position of the rotary part relative to the fixed part. The EMA also includes a soft stop assembly with one or more moving soft stop members mounted to the rotary member and one or more stationary soft stop members mounted to the fixed part. The one or more moving soft stop members are arranged to contact the one or more soft stop members at a soft stop end position of the rotary part relative to the fixed part.
H02K 7/12 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with auxiliary limited movement of stators, rotors or core parts, e.g. rotors axially movable for the purpose of clutching or braking
B64C 13/34 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical using toothed gearing
H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
A connector for adjustably connecting an RVDT (rotary variable differential transformer) and a reductor shaft. The connector includes a body defining a bore configured to receive the reductor shaft. The bore has an inner wall and a threaded tightening member which is substantially parallel to a main axis (AA, BB) of the bore. A portion of the body is configured to deform upon tightening of the tightening member such that, when the reductor shaft is received by the bore, the reductor shaft is gripped by at least a portion of the inner wall.
A sealing arrangement for the interface between a fluidic load and a motor. The sealing arrangement includes: a rotating shaft having a shaft body extending along an axis (A) and having a first end, configured to, in use, be in driving engagement with a fluidic load, and a second end configured to, in use, be in engagement with a motor for rotation by the motor, the rotating shaft and a shoulder extending radially outwards from the shaft body at the first end. The sealing arrangement further includes: a first, major seal extending radially around the shaft; a second, minor seal axially spaced from the first seal towards the second end and mounted around the shaft, and a seal holder block located between the first seal and the second seal around the shaft body.
F15B 15/08 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit
A rotary electromechanical actuator (EMA) includes: a first EMA part comprising a first electric motor and a first rotary shaft (S1) extending along an axis and arranged to be rotated about the axis by the first electric motor, and a first 1st stage gearbox providing a geared transmission from the first electric motor to the first output shaft, and a first brake assembly for applying a braking force to the first output shaft; the EMA further comprising: a second EMA part comprising a second electric motor and a second rotary shaft (S2) extending along the axis and arranged to be rotated about the axis by the second electric motor, and a second 1st stage gearbox providing a geared transmission from the second electric motor to the second output shaft, and a second brake assembly for applying a braking force to the second output shaft.
F16H 19/08 - Gearings comprising essentially only toothed gears or friction members and not capable of conveying indefinitely-continuing rotary motion for interconverting rotary motion and oscillating motion
B64C 11/44 - Blade pitch-changing mechanisms electric
An electromechanical actuator (EMA) assembly. The assembly includes: an electric motor; a drive shaft in engagement with the motor to be rotated about a shaft axis by operation of the motor; an output ring around the drive shaft, the output ring caused to rotate with rotation of the drive shaft, the output ring configured to be connected, in use, to a load to be driven by the EMA; a gear assembly between the drive shaft and the output ring to transmit rotation of the drive shaft to rotation of the output ring at a gear ratio. The gear assembly comprises a sun gear in engagement with the drive shaft, an outer gear in engagement with the outer ring, and planetary gears rotating between and transmitting rotation between the sun gear and the outer gear; and a planet carrier plate mounted to the planetary gears to rotate with the planetary gears.
An actuator assembly includes an actuator control block formed of a first material. The assembly further includes two or more tie rods, a tailstock and a front plate. The two or more tie rods, the tailstock and the front plate are formed of a second material able to withstand more tensile stress than the first material.
F15B 15/14 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit of the straight-cylinder type
An accumulator assembly for providing hydraulic fluid to an electrohydrostatic actuator includes an accumulator for containing a supply of hydraulic fluid, the accumulator having an exit port via which hydraulic fluid can flow, in use, to the actuator. The assembly further includes an accumulator refill arrangement fluidly connected to a supply of hydraulic fluid for refilling the accumulator via a fluid line when a level of fluid in the accumulator is below a predetermined value. The accumulator includes a cylinder defining a fluid chamber and an accumulator piston moveable within the cylinder relative to the chamber responsive to the fluid pressure. The refill arrangement includes a spool moveable across the fluid line between an open position, wherein fluid can flow along the fluid line from the supply to the chamber, and a closed position, wherein the spool blocks the flow of fluid from the supply to the chamber.
An electromechanical actuator (EMA) includes: a stationary body portion; a movable body portion configured to move relative to the stationary body portion; an actuation element connecting the stationary body portion and the movable body portion and configured to actuate the movable body portion relative to the stationary body portion; a surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensor disposed on the actuation element; a first interface component disposed on the stationary body portion at an interface between the stationary body portion and the movable body portion; and a second interface component disposed on the movable body portion at the interface between the stationary body portion and the movable body portion. The second interface component is configured to transmit signals between the SAW sensor and the first interface component. The first interface component and the second interface component define an inductive position sensor to determine the position of the second interface component.
An electro-hydrostatic actuator (EHA) assembly includes: a power line, and a one-piece, integral housing a hydraulic control block, a power control module, PCM, and a motor-pump assembly, the integral housing comprising a passage through which the power line passes.
F03G 7/00 - Mechanical-power-producing mechanisms, not otherwise provided for or using energy sources not otherwise provided for
F15B 15/14 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit of the straight-cylinder type
A rotary actuator includes an actuator body having a first end and a second end defining an interior of the actuator body therebetween, an axis X of the body being between the first and second ends. Each end is provided with a port arranged to receive hydraulic fluid. The actuator also includes: mounting parts extending from the ends into the interior of the actuator body a screw mounted to the mounting parts within the actuator body between the first and second ends, the screw mounted to the mounting parts via splines to allow linear axial translation of the screw relative to the mounting parts. The screw having one or two walls extending across an inner diameter d of the screw.
F15B 15/06 - Mechanical layout characterised by the means for converting the movement of the fluid-actuated element into movement of the finally-operated member for mechanically converting rectilinear movement into non-rectilinear movement
A secondary load path assembly includes: a secondary load path comprising: a plate; a secondary nut; and a transfer plate secured to the plate and configured to connect the plate and the secondary nut in load transfer engagement. The transfer plate has an opening therethrough, an axis defined through the opening, and the secondary nut protruding axially through the opening; wherein, in a state in which load is not transmitted via the secondary load path, a clearance is provided between the secondary nut and the opening. The assembly also includes a locking unit configured to lock the secondary nut to the transfer plate when load is to be transmitted through the secondary path, the locking unit comprising a lock arranged to axially move to a lock position in which it is located in the clearance between the secondary nut and the opening to lock the secondary nut to the transfer plate.
A flight control surface actuation system includes a rotary actuator having an output part configured to rotate about an axis (R-R), a connecting rod for connecting a flight control surface to the rotary actuator, and a connection mechanism connecting a first end of the connecting rod to the output part such that rotation of the output part about the axis causes at least part of the connection rod to rotate about the axis. The connection mechanism comprises a connection structure fixed to the output part and an engagement part mounted for rotation about a longitudinal axis. The engagement part extends through the connecting rod and is fixed to it. A position sensor is arranged to measure the angular displacement of the first end of the connecting rod about the axis.
A threaded fastener comprising a first threaded part defining an axis, A, from a first end to a second end thereof, the threaded part having a radially inwardly extending thread along a portion thereof between the first and the second end and a non-threaded portion between the thread and the second end The fastener also has a second threaded part defining an axis from a first end and a second end thereof and having a radially outwardly extending thread along a portion thereof between the first and the second end and a non-threaded portion between the thread and the first end. The fastener also includes a compressible part arranged to provide an axial load to one of the first and the second threaded parts when the parts are fastened together.
F16B 39/24 - Locking of screws, bolts, or nuts in which the locking takes place during screwing down or tightening by means of washers, spring washers, or resilient plates that lock against the object
A method of manufacturing a gear includes: providing a shaft; forming a groove into the shaft; and inserting a tooth into the groove such that the tooth is retained in the groove by an interference fit. A retainer can also be fixed to the shaft such that the tooth is retained in the groove by the retainer in addition to the interference fit.
B23P 11/02 - Connecting or disconnecting metal parts or objects by metal-working techniques, not otherwise provided for by first expanding and then shrinking or vice versa, e.g. by using pressure fluidsConnecting or disconnecting metal parts or objects by metal-working techniques, not otherwise provided for by making force fits
B64D 35/00 - Transmitting power from power plants to propellers or rotorsArrangements of transmissions
F16H 55/06 - Use of materialsUse of treatments of toothed members or worms to affect their intrinsic material properties
An electromechanical actuator assembly operable in a plurality of modes. The EMA assembly includes: an electrical motor having a motor shaft extending along an axis (A) of the EMA, the motor driving the shaft to rotate about the axis; a gear assembly mounted around, and in geared connection with the shaft, to rotate with the shaft; an EMA output connected to the gear assembly such that rotation of the motor shaft causes rotation of the output via the gear assembly, the output rotating at a speed which is a predetermined fraction of the speed of rotation of the motor shaft based on the gear ratio of the gear assembly
H02K 7/12 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with auxiliary limited movement of stators, rotors or core parts, e.g. rotors axially movable for the purpose of clutching or braking
A kit of parts to provide a reconfigurable epicyclic gear system, The kit of parts includes at least one sun gear; a planet carrier; a plurality of sets of planet gears configured to be mounted on the planet carrier and to mesh with the at least one sun gear; and a plurality of ring gears configured to mesh with the plurality of sets of planet gears; wherein the at least one sun gear, the plurality of sets of planet gears and the plurality of ring gears all have the same modulus such that they can be arranged in different configurations that each produce a different output torque.
A damping arrangement for an electromechanical actuator including an actuator member and a lubricant fluid for lubricating the actuator member during movement of the actuator member. The damping arrangement comprises a constrained passage, the constrained passage configured to restrict a flow of the lubricant fluid in order to provide a damping force to resist a movement of the actuator member during a failure event.
F16F 9/32 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium Details
A linear actuator includes: a screw shaft; a nut assembly mounted to the screw shaft to move linearly along the screw shaft as the screw shaft is rotated; and a motor to rotate the screw shaft, wherein the motor is an axial flux motor.
There is provided a lower attachment for a trimmable horizontal stabiliser actuator (THSA) for connecting the THSA to a flight control surface. The attachment includes: a nut assembly for providing a load path through the THSA to the flight control surface when the THSA is connected to the flight control surface. The nut assembly includes a nut for location on a screw shaft of the THSA, a failsafe plate for coupling to the flight control surface, and a transfer plate for transferring load between the failsafe plate and the nut. The nut assembly has a first unloaded configuration in which there is no contact between the nut and the transfer plate, and a second loaded configuration in which there is contact between a first pair of opposed surfaces of the nut and the transfer plate.
A gear device for a gear system for an aircraft includes: an input stage epicyclic gear comprising an input stage sun, an input stage carrier and an input stage ring; and an output stage epicyclic gear comprising an output stage sun, an output stage carrier and an output stage ring. A first input stage component of the input stage sun, the input stage carrier and the input stage ring is fixed to a corresponding first output stage component of the output stage sun, the output stage carrier and the output stage ring, wherein a second input stage component of the input stage sun, the input stage carrier and the input stage ring is fixed to a corresponding second output stage component of the output stage sun, the output stage carrier and the output stage ring. The second input stage component is different from the first input stage component.
B64C 13/50 - Transmitting means with power amplification using electrical energy
F16H 19/02 - Gearings comprising essentially only toothed gears or friction members and not capable of conveying indefinitely-continuing rotary motion for interconverting rotary motion and reciprocating motion
SPR) from the resilient member when energised. the device may be selectively placed in one of a first mode and a second mode depending on torque requirements.
A handheld wire insertion tool for inserting conductive wires of a cable into an electrical contact. The tool includes: a receiving portion configured to receive an electrical contact; a funnel portion configured to guide free ends of conductive wires of a cable into the electrical contact when the contact is located in the receiving portion; and a securing member configured to secure the funnel portion relative to the electrical contact located in the receiving portion.
H02G 1/14 - Methods or apparatus specially adapted for installing, maintaining, repairing, or dismantling electric cables or lines for joining or terminating cables
An electromechanical actuator comprises: a motor; a gearbox; an anti-extension device mounted between the motor and the gearbox. The motor and anti-extension device are mounted on a housing of the actuator. The actuator further comprises a screw shaft; a nut mounted on the screw shaft; an output rod connected to the nut, the output rod having a linear range of motion defined between full extension of the output rod at a first end point (A) and full retraction of the output rod at a second end point (C). The screw shaft, nut, and output rod are located in a cavity of the housing. The output rod and nut are held against rotation relative to the housing, such that rotation of the screw shaft drives the output rod to move linearly within the housing.
A strain wave gear mechanism includes: a casing; an elliptical drive shaft; an outer ring arranged coaxially around the elliptical drive shaft and rotationally fixed to the casing, the outer ring having a toothed inner circumference; a flexible ring mounted around the elliptical drive shaft radially inwards of the outer ring, the flexible ring having a toothed outer circumference. Rotation of the elliptical drive shaft causes elliptical rotation of the flexible ring relative to the outer ring such that teeth of the flexible ring engage with teeth of the outer ring at points corresponding to the major axis of the ellipse of the drive shaft to cause movement of the flexible ring in a direction opposite to rotation of the drive shaft. The outer ring is rotationally fixed to the casing via a solenoid operated disconnect gear configured to selectively disconnect the outer ring from the casing.
B64C 13/50 - Transmitting means with power amplification using electrical energy
F16H 19/08 - Gearings comprising essentially only toothed gears or friction members and not capable of conveying indefinitely-continuing rotary motion for interconverting rotary motion and oscillating motion
An asymmetric torque limiter having an axis of rotation including a first annular friction disk, a second annular friction disk a skewed roller disk a first resilient member and a second resilient member. The second annular friction disk is concentrically arranged with the first annular friction disk. The skewed roller disk is in contact with the second annular friction disk. The skewed roller disk includes a plurality of skewed rollers mounted in an annular retainer. The plurality of skewed rollers are about a respective roller axis, each roller axis being skewed to a radial direction passing through the skewed roller from the axis of rotation. The first resilient member is attached to the first annular friction disk and is configured to bias the first annular friction disk toward an input shaft. The second resilient member is configured to bias the skewed roller disk toward the second annular friction disk.
A system includes an electrically-actuated clutch arranged to selectively connect a shaft to a motor shaft. Ratchets brake the shaft against rotation in either direction when the output is not within either of the predetermined ranges. Thus, when the motor shaft is connected, via the clutch, to the shaft, the ratchets may act as a brake on the motor shaft.
F16D 41/02 - Freewheels or freewheel clutches disengaged by contact of a part of or on the freewheel or freewheel clutch with a stationarily-mounted member
B64C 13/28 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical
F16D 27/10 - Magnetically-actuated clutchesControl or electric circuits therefor with an electromagnet not rotating with a clutching member, i.e. without collecting rings
F16D 48/06 - Control by electric or electronic means, e.g. of fluid pressure
B64C 13/34 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical using toothed gearing
A lock system for an aircraft thrust reverser includes a lock member translatable between a locked position, in which the lock member is extended for preventing deployment of the thrust reverser by the lock member blocking the path of a movable component of the thrust reverser, and an unlocked position, in which the lock member is retracted for permitting deployment of the thrust reverser by the lock member moving out of the path of the movable component. The lock system also includes a linear electric motor or a solenoid for translating the lock member between the locked position and the unlocked position.
A wing panel actuator assembly includes: an actuator housing; an actuator piston arranged in the actuator housing and axially movable relative to the actuator housing; a connecting rod attached, at one end, to an end of the piston extending from the actuator housing; the actuator housing and piston arranged to be accommodated inside a movable panel of an aircraft wing. The connecting rod is arranged to be attached, in use, at its end opposite the one end attached to the piston, to a wing structure of the aircraft wing, the panel being pivotable about a pivot point P relative to the wing structure by means of the actuator piston.
A connector for adjustably connecting an RVDT (rotary variable differential transformer) and a reductor shaft. The connector includes a body defining a bore configured to receive the reductor shaft. The bore has an inner wall and a threaded tightening member which is substantially parallel to a main axis (AA, BB) of the bore. A portion of the body is configured to deform upon tightening of the tightening member such that, when the reductor shaft is received by the bore, the reductor shaft is gripped by at least a portion of the inner wall.
A connection apparatus suitable for mounting on a structural element and connection to a port of a system or component in which the connection apparatus comprises a connector, a flange and a compressible biasing element is provided. The connector forms a longitudinally extending conduit having an axis (A) extending along the centre of the conduit, a port end adapted to be engaged with the port of a system or component, and a second end. The connector comprises a shoulder extending around the perimeter of the connector, and the shoulder extends around the perimeter of the connector in a direction substantially perpendicular to the portion of the conduit axis (as) around which the shoulder extends. The biasing element is adapted to at least partially extend around a portion of the connector adjacent to the shoulder.
An electromechanical linear includes a rotary shaft; a harmonic drive gear arrangement extending radially outwardly of and coaxially with the rotary shaft; an electric motor positioned radially outwardly of the harmonic drive gear arrangement, wherein the rotary shaft is configured to be driven by the electric motor via the harmonic drive gear arrangement; and an output component configured to be driven along the rotary shaft in response to rotation thereof.
H02K 7/116 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with gears
H02K 7/00 - Arrangements for handling mechanical energy structurally associated with dynamo-electric machines, e.g. structural association with mechanical driving motors or auxiliary dynamo-electric machines
H02K 7/102 - Structural association with clutches, brakes, gears, pulleys or mechanical starters with friction brakes
B64C 13/50 - Transmitting means with power amplification using electrical energy
An electromechanical actuator, EMA, having a plurality of modes. The EMA includes a housing, a motor fixed relative to the housing, the motor having an output shaft, the output shaft defining an axis (X) of the EMA and a first sun gear connected for rotation with the output shaft. The system includes an output arranged to be driven by rotation of the first sun gear, wherein the output is arranged to have a neutral position and to be movable away from the neutral position within a positive quadrant and away from the neutral position within a negative quadrant and a ratchet comprising a ratchet wheel and a pawl. The system also has a torque limiter having a predetermined torque limit and arranged to limit torque transfer between the first sun gear and the output.
An electromechanical actuator (EMA) includes a plurality of modes and includes an electrical motor having a motor shaft extending along an axis (A) and that drives the shaft to rotate about the axis and a gear assembly mounted around, and in geared connection with the shaft, to rotate with the shaft. The EMA output is connected to the gear assembly such that rotation of the motor shaft causes rotation of the output via the gear assembly, the output rotating at a speed which is a predetermined fraction of the speed of rotation of the motor shaft based on the gear ratio of the gear assembly. The EMA also includes a synchroniser comprising a first conical portion connected to an end of the motor shaft, and a second conical portion connected to a ratchet. The synchroniser has an engaged position and a disengaged position.
A device for damping rotary motion of a component. The device comprises a first part adapted to be mounted to the component so as to rotate therewith, and a second part adapted to be fixed such that the first part moves towards the second part when the component rotates in a first direction (D1). At least one surface of the first part and a corresponding at least one surface of the second part are angled such that, as the first part moves towards the second part, the at least one surface of the first part will move into contact with and then move along the corresponding at least one surface of the second part such that friction between the at least one surface of the first part and the corresponding at least one surface of the second part acts against the movement of the first part.
F16F 15/129 - Suppression of vibrations in rotating systems by making use of members moving with the system using elastic members or friction-damping members, e.g. between a rotating shaft and a gyratory mass mounted thereon characterised by friction-damping means
F16H 19/08 - Gearings comprising essentially only toothed gears or friction members and not capable of conveying indefinitely-continuing rotary motion for interconverting rotary motion and oscillating motion
B64C 13/50 - Transmitting means with power amplification using electrical energy
A system for controlling a flight control surface includes a first electromagnetic actuator “EMA” and a second EMA, each of which are connected to said flight control surface. Each EMA is configured to be arranged in, and switched between, three modes; said three modes comprising: an active mode, a stand-by mode and a blocked, or anti-extension, mode.
An abradable seal includes an outer ring arrangement and an energiser for urging said outer ring arrangement against an opposing surface, wherein an outermost surface of said outer ring arrangement defines a sealing surface of said abradable seal; wherein said outer ring arrangement is configured such that after a first period of operation said sealing surface suddenly transitions from having a relatively large surface area to having a relatively small surface area, so as to cause a sudden increase in internal leakage across the seal at said transition.
G01M 3/28 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for pipes, cables, or tubesInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for pipe joints or sealsInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for valves
F15B 15/14 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit of the straight-cylinder type
F16J 15/3296 - Arrangements for monitoring the condition or operation of elastic sealingsArrangements for control of elastic sealings, e.g. of their geometry or stiffness
F16J 15/34 - Sealings between relatively-moving surfaces with slip-ring pressed against a more or less radial face on one member
A guide assembly includes an annular guide body defining a cavity, and a plurality of roller assemblies mounted within the guide body. Each roller assembly includes an annular roller mounted onto a pin and arranged to rotate around the pin. The pins are arranged such that their axes define a ring around the interior of the guide body and the annular rollers arranged to protrude through respective openings in the guide body into the cavity. Each annular roller has a concave outer surface.
H02K 5/173 - Means for supporting bearings, e.g. insulating supports or means for fitting bearings in the bearing-shields using bearings with rolling contact, e.g. ball bearings
F16C 19/26 - Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with bearing rollers essentially of the same size in one or more circular rows, e.g. needle bearings for radial load mainly with a single row of rollers
F16C 33/66 - Special parts or details in view of lubrication
An actuator system includes a motor and an actuator positioning member to be driven by the motor from a start position to an actuated position. The system also includes a harmonic drive assembly between the motor and the actuator positioning member arranged to transfer torque from the motor to the actuator positioning member at a gear ratio of greater than 1:1. The system further includes means for disconnecting the harmonic drive assembly in response to failure of the motor and/or torque transfer such as to allow the positioning member to return to the start position.
An electromechanical actuator includes: an actuator rod housed in an actuator housing; a linear variable differential transformer “LVDT” fixed to the actuator housing; and an anti-rotation component configured to contact the outer surface of said LVDT. The outer surface of the linear variable differential transformer comprises a first anti-rotation surface feature and the anti-rotation component comprises a second anti-rotation surface feature. The first and second anti-rotation features are sized and shaped relative to each other such that, when in contact with each other, they are configured to prevent rotation of the actuator rod in use.
An actuation system for a control surface for an aircraft includes a first, second, third and fourth actuator, a first and second bell crank, and at least one push pull rod system. Each of the first and second bell cranks comprises a first and a second crank arm, the first and second crank arms intersect with and are joined to each other at an intersection, the first and second crank arms extend from the intersection at an angle to each other, the first bell crank is pivotally connected to the sub-structure by a first pivot extending through the first bell crank's intersection, and the second bell crank is pivotally connected to the sub-structure by a second pivot extending through the second bell crank's intersection.
A system and method for controlling two or more actuators acting together to move a component or surface includes Two or more actuators engaged with the component or surface to be moved. Each actuator is displaceable to move the component or surface in response to a component or surface position command. Each actuator has an associated actuator controller to receive the position command and to output an actuator displacement command. The system also includes force fight control means configured to determine a force differential from forces, or a pressure differential from pressures measured at each actuator and to derive a speed and/or a current offset signal, and to provide the offset signal to the actuator controllers to modify the actuator displacement commands.
An actuator pressure intensifying assembly includes a mode valve and a gear motor assembly, the mode valve arranged to receive, at an input port, a supply pressure and to provide, at an output port, a control pressure to an actuator, the mode valve further configured to move, in response to the supply pressure exceeding a predetermined activation threshold, from a first mode in which the supply pressure flows directly from the input port to the output port in a first fluid flow path, and a second mode in which the supply pressure flows from the input port to the output port in a second fluid flow path which includes the gear motor assembly between the input port and the output port which intensifies the supply pressure such that the control pressure is higher than the supply pressure.
F15B 11/032 - Systems essentially incorporating special features for controlling the speed or the actuating force or speed of an output member for controlling the actuating force by means of fluid-pressure converters
F15B 3/00 - Intensifiers or fluid-pressure converters, e.g. pressure exchangersConveying pressure from one fluid system to another, without contact between the fluids
F15B 13/04 - Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with a single servomotor
B64C 13/40 - Transmitting means with power amplification using fluid pressure
A force fight mitigation system comprising: control means configured to provide a position command to each of two or more actuators arranged to position a surface, the position command indicative of a desired position of the actuator relative to the surface; means to detect the actual position of the actuator relative to the surface in response to the position command; and means to determine an offset between the desired position and the actual position and to store a rigging correction based on the offset; wherein, for each actuator, an offset is determined for each of three or more desired positions.
A hydraulic actuator includes a piston and a cylinder. The piston is axially movable within the cylinder. A stroke end damping valve is provided in a hydraulic fluid flow passage of the actuator and adjacent an end of the cylinder. The stroke end damping valve comprises a damping orifice and a valve element for selectively varying the area of the damping orifice and thereby changing the damping provided by the orifice. The valve element projects from a wall of the cylinder into the cylinder and is engageable by the piston as the piston moves towards the end of the cylinder. This reduces the area of the damping orifice and thereby increases the damping effect on the piston towards the end of its stroke in the cylinder.
There is provided an actuator comprising screw shaft and a nut assembly. The nut assembly comprises a primary nut for transmitting load through the actuator along a primary load path, and a secondary nut for transmitting load through the actuator along a secondary load path. The secondary nut comprises first and second portions movable relative to one another. As load is transmitted through the actuator along the primary load path the secondary nut does not transmit load through the actuator, wherein upon failure of the primary load path the first and second portions move relative to each other, such relative movement causing the first and second portions to engage the screw shaft and enable transmittal of load through the secondary nut of the actuator along the secondary load path.
An actuator control arrangement comprising: a hydraulic actuator having a housing and a piston rod axially moveable within the housing between a neutral position, a retracted position and an extended position with respect to the housing in response to application of pressure to the piston rod; the arrangement further comprising a check valve moveable between a first position providing a flow path between a pressure source and the actuator, and a second position in which the flow path is closed off; and characterised by a mechanical link between the piston rod and the check valve, actuated in response to the piston rod passing a predetermined retracted position in a negative stroke direction, to set the check valve to the first position.
A ram-body for use with a spherical bearing has an inner circumferential surface. The ram-body comprises at least a first concave section provided in said inner circumferential surface. In some examples, a second concave section may be provided diametrically opposite to the first concave section. In some examples, the concave sections may be lunular shaped. A method of manufacturing the ram-body is also described. A ram-body and spherical bearing assembly is also described.
A screw actuator having a screw shaft and a nut arrangement is described herein, the nut arrangement comprising: a primary nut; a first secondary nut having a first thread; a second secondary nut having a second thread; and a first attachment means. The first nut, first secondary nut, and second secondary nut are connected to the first attachment means with a first, initial, axial spacing between the first and second secondary nuts. The first secondary nut is mounted to the first attachment means via bearings that allow the first secondary nut to rotate relative to the first attachment. The first secondary nut is connected to the second secondary nut via a screw thread connection having a pitch lower than a pitch of a screw thread of the screw actuator shaft.
A system for detecting and controlling the position of a spoiler of an aircraft wing is described herein comprising: a hydraulic actuator having a piston rod operably connected to the spoiler, the piston rod being moveable between a retracted position, a neutral position and an extended position; and means for providing power to said hydraulic actuator; and a mechanical device for detecting whether the piston rod is in the retracted position, the neutral position or the extended position; and means, operatively connected to the mechanical device, that is configured to provide a change in a load applied to said hydraulic actuator, wherein said means is configured to change said load based on whether said piston rod is detected as being in said retracted position or said extended position.
B64C 13/30 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical using cable, chain, or rod mechanisms
F15B 15/24 - Other details for restricting the stroke
F15B 13/02 - Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors
F15B 15/14 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit of the straight-cylinder type
An attachment assembly for connecting an actuator to a frame, a method for manufacturing this attachment assembly and a method for reducing backlash in an attachment assembly. The attachment assembly comprises: an outer yoke having a first end and an opposite second end and defining an internal cavity at said second end. The outer yoke has an aperture provided at its second end connected to the cavity; and an inner yoke located within the cavity. A tie bar having a ball shaped end extends through said aperture such that the ball shaped end is positioned within the cavity and cannot pass through the aperture. A spring is provided at said first end of said outer yoke that is configured to bias the inner yoke in the direction of the aperture. The attachment also includes shearable means for holding the inner yoke.
A ballscrew actuator comprises a ballnut having at least one first helical groove formed on a radially inner surface and defining an axis (X), a ballscrew disposed along the axis (X) within the ballnut, the ballscrew having at least one second helical groove formed on a radially outer surface and opposed to the first helical groove so as to form at least one helical raceway and a plurality of balls or rolling elements disposed in the at least one helical raceway. The ballscrew is movable relative to the ballnut between a stowed position and a deployed position. The ballscrew comprises a ballscrew bore extending axially therein. A lubrication piston is mounted for sliding movement within the ballscrew bore and divides the ballscrew bore axially into a lubricant receiving portion and a pressurising portion.
F16H 3/06 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio or for reversing rotary motion without gears having orbital motion with worm and worm-wheel or gears essentially having helical or herring-bone teeth
F16H 27/02 - Step-by-step mechanisms without freewheel members, e.g. Geneva drives with at least one reciprocating or oscillating transmission member
F16H 29/02 - Gearings for conveying rotary motion with intermittently-driving members, e.g. with freewheel action between one of the shafts and an oscillating or reciprocating intermediate member, not rotating with either of the shafts
F16H 29/20 - Gearings for conveying rotary motion with intermittently-driving members, e.g. with freewheel action the intermittently-acting members being shaped as worms, screws, or racks
F16H 25/22 - Screw mechanisms with balls, rollers, or similar members between the co-operating partsElements essential to the use of such members
F16H 57/04 - Features relating to lubrication or cooling
A spoiler actuator can be operated by applying high pressure to a first chamber of the actuator on receipt of a command to extend the spoiler; applying high pressure to a second chamber of the actuator on receipt of a command to retract the spoiler; and on failure of a supply of the high pressure actuating an anti-extension valve to prevent extension of the spoiler; disengaging the anti-extension valve to permit extension if pressure applied to the anti-extension valve exceeds a predetermined force of a spring biasing the anti-extension valve to the engaged position, wherein additional force is applied to the anti-extension valve if the spoiler is retracted beyond a neutral position.
F15B 11/12 - Servomotor systems without provision for follow-up action with only one servomotor providing distinct intermediate positionsServomotor systems without provision for follow-up action with only one servomotor with step-by-step action
B64C 13/44 - Transmitting means with power amplification using fluid pressure overriding of personal controlsTransmitting means with power amplification using fluid pressure with automatic return to inoperative position
An actuator control arrangement includes a hydraulic actuator having a housing and a piston rod axially moveable within the housing, a stop disposed within the housing to limit the extent of movement of the piston rod into the housing, and a solenoid valve arranged between a pressure source and the actuator. The solenoid valve is switchable between a first mode and a second mode in response to an electric control signal, wherein, in the first mode, the solenoid valve creates a fluid flow path from the pressure source to the actuator so as to locate the stop in its neutral position and in the second mode, the solenoid valve creates a fluid flow path to release pressure from the actuator to permit the stop to move to its retracted position. In the event of electrical failure, the stop will set the actuator to its neutral position.
B64C 13/50 - Transmitting means with power amplification using electrical energy
F15B 11/12 - Servomotor systems without provision for follow-up action with only one servomotor providing distinct intermediate positionsServomotor systems without provision for follow-up action with only one servomotor with step-by-step action
F15B 11/08 - Servomotor systems without provision for follow-up action with only one servomotor
F15B 20/00 - Safety arrangements for fluid actuator systemsApplications of safety devices in fluid actuator systemsEmergency measures for fluid actuator systems
A twin-disc tribometer assembly includes a first sample drive shaft arranged to receive a first sample disc and a second sample drive shaft arranged to receive a second sample disc; a first drive motor configured to rotate the first drive shaft and a second motor arranged to rotate the second drive shaft. The first and second drive shafts are configured to be positioned relative to each other such that a sample disc mounted on the first drive shaft will make a point contact with a sample disc on the second drive shaft as the drive shafts rotate. The assembly is configured to allow the shafts to rotate relative to each other in a non-continuous reciprocating motion or a non-collinear motion where one sample disc is tilted with respect to the other.
A trimmable horizontal stabiliser actuator (THSA) control system includes least one main THSA motor for driving the THSA in response to inputs from a flight control computer (FCC), a pilot trim control system for manual control of the THSA by a pilot overriding the FCC. The pilot trim control system comprises a trim control for receiving an input from the pilot, the trim control including a trim control sensor for detecting the input from the pilot and providing a pilot trim control signal; a THSA trim control motor for driving the THSA in response to the pilot trim control signal; and an electronic override system for giving inputs from the pilot priority over inputs from the FCC.
B64C 13/22 - Initiating means actuated automatically, e.g. responsive to gust detectors readily revertible to personal control
B64F 5/00 - Designing, manufacturing, assembling, cleaning, maintaining or repairing aircraft, not otherwise provided forHandling, transporting, testing or inspecting aircraft components, not otherwise provided for
A system for controlling an electromechanical actuator of an aircraft includes a locking device configured to mechanically lock said actuator in a first fixed position and to mechanically unlock said actuator from said first fixed position and a controller configured to be in bi-directional communication with both said locking device and said actuator. The controller is configured to monitor a position of said actuator during flight and to detect when said actuator has not moved for a set amount of time, said controller further being configured to instruct said locking device to lock said actuator in said first, locked position when said set time has been reached. In addition, there is provided a method for controlling the thermal properties of an electromechanical actuator of an aircraft.
B64C 13/50 - Transmitting means with power amplification using electrical energy
H02K 9/22 - Arrangements for cooling or ventilating by solid heat conducting material embedded in, or arranged in contact with, the stator or rotor, e.g. heat bridges
An assembly for manual control of an HSTA for controlling the position of a moveable surface, the assembly comprising a user-operated manual control element (1′) e.g. a trim wheel in the cockpit, a first motor and a first resolver connected to the manual control element and a second motor and a second resolver arranged to communicate with the first motor and the first resolver and to cause corresponding movement of the actuator, in use.
An upper attachment system for a trimmable horizontal stabiliser actuator (THSA) comprises: a housing, holding a yoke and a ballscrew; a nut coupled to the housing and cooperating with the ballscrew such that rotation of the ballscrew relative to the nut results in linear motion of the ballscrew; a recess formed between the yoke and the ballscrew and arranged to receive, in use, an upper part of a tie bar of the secondary load path of the actuator; and a biasing mechanism arranged such that, in use, when no axial load is applied to the tie bar, the yoke and the ballscrew are held by balanced forces from the biasing mechanism in a position within the recess.
B64C 13/30 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical using cable, chain, or rod mechanisms
B64C 13/28 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical
A lower attachment system for a trimmable horizontal stabiliser actuator (THSA) includes a screwshaft forming a part of or coupled to a main screw of the actuator, the screwshaft having an axial direction and a primary ballnut disposed on the screwshaft and forming a part of a primary load path of the lower attachment system. The THSA also includes a lower secondary nut and an upper secondary nut as well as a secondary connection arranged for axial and rotational movement and coupled to each of the lower secondary nut and the upper secondary nut. The secondary connection is arranged to be loaded when the secondary load path is loaded and the secondary load path also includes the upper and lower secondary nuts.
A rotor for an electrical machine comprises a rotor body having an external, axially extending magnet receiving surface for receiving at least one magnet thereon, and a flange mounting portion at at least one axial end of the magnet receiving surface. The flange mounting portion has a smaller external dimension (D1) than an external dimension (D2) of the magnet receiving surface so as to form a shoulder between the magnet receiving surface and the flange mounting portion. A magnet retaining flange is mounted over the flange mounting portion of the rotor body and located against the shoulder. The magnet retaining flange is retained against the shoulder by at least one lip of the flange mounting portion of the rotor body which extends radially outwardly over a radially inner portion of the magnet retaining flange. The lip by deforming an end face of the flange mounting portion.
H02K 1/30 - Means for mounting or fastening rotating magnetic parts on to, or to, the rotor structures using intermediate parts, e.g. spiders
H02K 15/03 - Processes or apparatus specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining or repairing of dynamo-electric machines of stator or rotor bodies having permanent magnets
H02K 1/28 - Means for mounting or fastening rotating magnetic parts on to, or to, the rotor structures
An electro hydrostatic actuator comprising a hydraulic pump driven by an electric motor to supply hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic actuator, the pump comprising an inlet and an outlet for the hydraulic fluid and an active flow path configured therebetween such that, in an active mode of operation when the pump is driven by the electric motor, hydraulic fluid is actively drawn in through the inlet and exhausted out through the outlet. The pump further comprises a bypass flow path configured to open between the inlet and outlet such that, in a damping mode of operation when the pump is not driven by the electric motor, hydraulic fluid is able to pass through the pump along the bypass flow path between the inlet and outlet. The hydraulic pump is a rotary piston pump comprising a pump barrel driven to rotate by a motor shaft.
B64C 13/50 - Transmitting means with power amplification using electrical energy
F15B 15/18 - Combined units comprising both motor and pump
F15B 13/10 - Special arrangements for operating the actuated device without using fluid pressure, e.g. for emergency use
B64C 13/40 - Transmitting means with power amplification using fluid pressure
F15B 21/04 - Special measures taken in connection with the properties of the fluid
F15B 20/00 - Safety arrangements for fluid actuator systemsApplications of safety devices in fluid actuator systemsEmergency measures for fluid actuator systems
An apparatus for pumping a fluid from a fluid inlet to a fluid outlet is disclosed. The apparatus comprises: a spool axially movable within a cavity, wherein a first chamber is located at a first axial end of the cavity and a second chamber is located at a second axial end of the cavity, wherein the volume of the first chamber and the second chamber varies depending upon the axial position of the spool within the cavity; a valve movable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position the valve is configured to convey fluid from the fluid inlet to the first chamber and from the second chamber to the fluid outlet, and in the second position the valve is configured to convey fluid from the fluid inlet to the second chamber and from the first chamber to the fluid outlet.
F04B 53/14 - Pistons, piston-rods or piston-rod connections
F04B 17/04 - Pumps characterised by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors driven by electric motors using solenoids
F04B 7/04 - Piston machines or pumps characterised by having positively-driven valving in which the valving is performed by pistons and cylinders coacting to open and close intake or outlet ports
F04B 9/115 - Piston machines or pumps characterised by the driving or driven means to or from their working members the means being fluid the fluid being liquid having plural pumping chambers with two mechanically connected pumping members reciprocating movement of the pumping members being obtained by two single-acting liquid motors, each acting in one direction
F04B 9/135 - Piston machines or pumps characterised by the driving or driven means to or from their working members the means being fluid the fluid being elastic, e.g. steam or air having plural pumping chambers with two mechanically connected pumping members reciprocating movement of the pumping members being obtained by two single-acting elastic-fluid motors, each acting in one direction
F04B 49/22 - Control of, or safety measures for, machines, pumps, or pumping installations, not otherwise provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups by means of valves
F04B 9/113 - Piston machines or pumps characterised by the driving or driven means to or from their working members the means being fluid the fluid being liquid having plural pumping chambers with two mechanically connected pumping members reciprocating movement of the pumping members being obtained by a double-acting liquid motor
F04B 9/105 - Piston machines or pumps characterised by the driving or driven means to or from their working members the means being fluid the fluid being liquid having only one pumping chamber reciprocating movement of the pumping member being obtained by a double-acting liquid motor
F04B 1/02 - Multi-cylinder machines or pumps characterised by number or arrangement of cylinders having two cylinders
F04B 53/12 - ValvesArrangement of valves arranged in or on pistons
F04B 7/00 - Piston machines or pumps characterised by having positively-driven valving
A test apparatus is provided for testing a sensorless check device of an actuator. The sensorless check device is arranged to be used by mechanically moving a check device pin from a resting position to an actuation position and then releasing the check device pin to allow it to return to a resting position urged by an elastic return mechanism. The test apparatus comprises: a piston for contact with an actuator surface associated with the check device pin; a piston spring for urging the piston toward the actuator surface, wherein the piston spring is softer than the elastic return mechanism of the check device; and an adjustment and testing mechanism.
A lower attachment system for a trimmable horizontal stabiliser actuator comprising: a ballnut for being disposed on a screwshaft of the actuator and forming a part of a primary load path of the lower attachment system; a trunnion connected to the ballnut and forming a part of the primary load path of the lower attachment system; a failsafe plate disposed about the trunnion and forming a part of a secondary load path; a secondary connection connected to the failsafe plate and forming a part of the secondary load path; a sheet plate attached to a first mounting point on the secondary connection and a second mounting point on the ballnut; and an adjustment mechanism provided with the sheet plate for adjusting the size or position of the sheet plate to adapt it to fit a distance between the first and second mounting points.
There is provided a method of manufacturing a housing configured to hold an actuator and an electronic control unit for the actuator. The method comprises additively manufacturing the housing as a single piece, wherein the housing comprises a central portion configured to house the actuator, and one or more side portions configured to house components of the electronic control unit.
An actuator is provided with means for controlling whether or not forces are transferred between a cylinder 12 (controlled by a motor of the actuator) and an output shaft 14. The output shaft 14 is located between the cylinder 12 and the control rod 18, 38. The cylinder 12 coaxially surrounds the output shaft 14, and the output shaft 14 in turn coaxially surrounds the control rod 18, 38. The control rod 18, 38 has one or more splines 20 on its outer surface facing the output shaft 12. The output shaft 14 has one or more holes 15, each containing a ball bearing 16.
B64C 13/30 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical using cable, chain, or rod mechanisms
F16H 25/22 - Screw mechanisms with balls, rollers, or similar members between the co-operating partsElements essential to the use of such members
B64C 13/28 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical
An actuator control arrangement is provided comprising a pair of rotary control valves used in combination to control the operation of an actuator. The rotary control valves are driven synchronously through a hydraulic or mechanical coupling. Each rotary control valve has a by-pass mode which activates in the event of a jam. In addition each rotary control valve has a mechanism for activating the by-pass mode absent any jam. The actuator control arrangement further comprises a circuit coupling a pilot control and/or a flight control computer (FCC) to one or both of the mechanisms for remotely switching the rotary control valve(s) from an active mode to a by-pass mode under control of a pilot or FCC.
F15B 20/00 - Safety arrangements for fluid actuator systemsApplications of safety devices in fluid actuator systemsEmergency measures for fluid actuator systems
B64C 13/16 - Initiating means actuated automatically, e.g. responsive to gust detectors
F15B 13/04 - Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with a single servomotor
B64C 13/42 - Transmitting means with power amplification using fluid pressure having duplication or stand-by provisions
G05D 1/08 - Control of attitude, i.e. control of roll, pitch, or yaw
An electrohydrostatic actuator, comprising an actuator for driving a component, a pump configured to pump hydraulic fluid for operation of the actuator, and a control valve for controlling passage of the hydraulic fluid between the actuator and the pump, wherein the control valve is movable between first and second positions. In the first position the control valve is configured to convey hydraulic fluid from the pump through the control valve for operation of the actuator, and in the second position the control valve is configured to fluidly disconnect the pump and the actuator, and circulate hydraulic fluid arriving from the pump back to the pump via a first constriction within the control valve.
An electrical connection comprises a first connector, a second connector, a first wall surrounding the first connector, and a second wall surrounding the second connector. The first wall is configured to fit inside the second wall when the first and second connectors are connected. The first and second walls include leading faces comprising first and second chamfered portions, respectively. The first and second chamfered portions are angled complementarily for guiding the first wall inside the second wall during connection of the first and second connectors.
H01R 33/00 - Coupling devices specially adapted for supporting apparatus and having one part acting as a holder providing support and electrical connection via a counterpart which is structurally associated with the apparatus, e.g. lamp holdersSeparate parts thereof
H01R 13/639 - Additional means for holding or locking coupling parts together after engagement
E05F 15/60 - Power-operated mechanisms for wings using electrical actuators
H01R 13/26 - Pin or blade contacts for sliding co-operation on one side only
H01R 13/631 - Additional means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. aligning or guiding means, levers, gas pressure for engagement only
H01R 13/74 - Means for mounting coupling parts to apparatus or structures, e.g. to a wall for mounting coupling parts in openings of a panel
H01R 13/52 - Dustproof, splashproof, drip-proof, waterproof, or flameproof cases
H01R 13/629 - Additional means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts, e.g. aligning or guiding means, levers, gas pressure
A screw (20) assembly for an actuator (10) is described comprising: a screw (20); a nut (22) threaded on said screw (20), such that rotation of said screw (20) causes axial movement of said nut (22); a stop located at an end of said screw (20) and defining an axial limit of said nut (22); a first feature located on said nut (22); and a second feature located on said stop; wherein said first and second features are configured to cooperate with one another substantially upon contact of said nut (22) with said stop so as to indicate an amount of free movement between said nut (22) and said screw (20).
A planetary gear assembly is provided, comprising a first planetary gear stage and a second planetary gear stage. The first planetary gear stage comprises a first sun gear, first planet gears and an outer ring gear, and the second planetary gear stage comprises a second sun gear, second planet gears and one or more output ring gears. The outer ring gear and the second sun gear are the same component, and the first planetary gear stage is located within the second planetary gear stage.
A connection for a lower attachment for a trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA) for connecting the lower attachment to a flight control surface. The attachment includes: a surface bracket for coupling to the flight control surface, the surface bracket mounted about a gimbal of the lower attachment by a bushing disposed between the gimbal and the surface bracket; a failsafe plate fittingly engaged on a first end of the bushing; and a tightening ring mounted on a second end of the bushing opposite the first end and secured to the surface bracket by at least one contact screw, such that the contact screw is operable to urge the bushing against the failsafe plate.
B64C 13/30 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical using cable, chain, or rod mechanisms
B64C 13/28 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical
An electro hydrostatic actuator (EHA) comprises a hydraulic pump and an electric motor driving the hydraulic pump. The hydraulic pump comprises an inlet and an outlet for hydraulic fluid and an active fluid flow path arranged therebetween such that, in an active mode of operation when the pump is driven by the electric motor, hydraulic fluid is actively drawn in through the inlet and exhausted out through the outlet. The hydraulic pump further comprises a bypass flow path arranged between the pump inlet and outlet, such that, in a damping mode of operation, hydraulic fluid is able to freely flow between the inlet and outlet in either direction.
F16D 31/02 - Fluid couplings or clutches with pumping sets of the volumetric type, i.e. in the case of liquid passing a predetermined volume per revolution using pumps with pistons or plungers working in cylinders
F15B 21/04 - Special measures taken in connection with the properties of the fluid
F15B 20/00 - Safety arrangements for fluid actuator systemsApplications of safety devices in fluid actuator systemsEmergency measures for fluid actuator systems
F04B 1/20 - Multi-cylinder machines or pumps characterised by number or arrangement of cylinders having cylinder axes coaxial with, or parallel or inclined to, main shaft axis having rotary cylinder block
F15B 15/18 - Combined units comprising both motor and pump
B64C 13/40 - Transmitting means with power amplification using fluid pressure
F15B 11/08 - Servomotor systems without provision for follow-up action with only one servomotor
F15B 21/08 - Servomotor systems incorporating electrically- operated control means
F04B 1/12 - Multi-cylinder machines or pumps characterised by number or arrangement of cylinders having cylinder axes coaxial with, or parallel or inclined to, main shaft axis
F04B 1/14 - Multi-cylinder machines or pumps characterised by number or arrangement of cylinders having cylinder axes coaxial with, or parallel or inclined to, main shaft axis having stationary cylinders
F04B 17/03 - Pumps characterised by combination with, or adaptation to, specific driving engines or motors driven by electric motors
F15B 1/02 - Installations or systems with accumulators
F15B 13/10 - Special arrangements for operating the actuated device without using fluid pressure, e.g. for emergency use
F15B 15/08 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit
F15B 21/00 - Common features of fluid actuator systemsFluid-pressure actuator systems or details thereof, not covered by any other group of this subclass
F15B 7/00 - Fluid-pressure actuator systems in which the movement produced is definitely related to the output of a volumetric pumpTelemotors
F15B 11/024 - Systems essentially incorporating special features for controlling the speed or the actuating force or speed of an output member by means of differential connection of the servomotor lines, e.g. regenerative circuits
B64C 13/50 - Transmitting means with power amplification using electrical energy
An electro hydrostatic actuator comprises a hydraulic pump driven by an electric motor to supply hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic actuator. The pump comprises an inlet and an outlet for the hydraulic fluid and an active flow path arranged therebetween such that, in an active mode of operation when the pump is driven by the electric motor, hydraulic fluid is actively drawn in through the inlet and exhausted out through the outlet. The pump further comprises a bypass flow path arranged to open between the inlet and outlet such that, in a damping mode of operation when the pump is not driven by the electric motor, hydraulic fluid is able to pass through the pump along the bypass flow path between the inlet and outlet.
B64C 13/50 - Transmitting means with power amplification using electrical energy
F15B 20/00 - Safety arrangements for fluid actuator systemsApplications of safety devices in fluid actuator systemsEmergency measures for fluid actuator systems
B64C 13/42 - Transmitting means with power amplification using fluid pressure having duplication or stand-by provisions
B64C 13/28 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical
F04B 1/20 - Multi-cylinder machines or pumps characterised by number or arrangement of cylinders having cylinder axes coaxial with, or parallel or inclined to, main shaft axis having rotary cylinder block
F15B 7/00 - Fluid-pressure actuator systems in which the movement produced is definitely related to the output of a volumetric pumpTelemotors
F15B 11/024 - Systems essentially incorporating special features for controlling the speed or the actuating force or speed of an output member by means of differential connection of the servomotor lines, e.g. regenerative circuits
F04B 1/122 - Details or component parts, e.g. valves, sealings or lubrication means
An abradable seal is provided, comprising an outer ring arrangement and an energiser for urging said outer ring arrangement against an opposing surface, wherein an outermost surface of said outer ring arrangement defines a sealing surface of said abradable seal; wherein said outer ring arrangement is configured such that after a first period of operation said sealing surface suddenly transitions from having a relatively large surface area to having a relatively small surface area, so as to cause a sudden increase in internal leakage across the seal at said transition.
F16J 15/34 - Sealings between relatively-moving surfaces with slip-ring pressed against a more or less radial face on one member
F15B 15/14 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit of the straight-cylinder type
F16J 15/3296 - Arrangements for monitoring the condition or operation of elastic sealingsArrangements for control of elastic sealings, e.g. of their geometry or stiffness
An actuator drive disconnection system comprises a housing and a drive coupling mounted in the housing, the drive coupling coupling a drive motor to an actuator drive train. A manually operable drive disconnection mechanism selectively moves the drive coupling from a first position in which the motor and actuator drive train are coupled and a second position in which the motor and actuator drive train are disconnected. The drive disconnection mechanism comprises an operating element which is manually extended from the housing to move the drive coupling from the first position to the second position.
There is disclosed a method of monitoring the health of an abradable seal located on a piston of an actuator, the method comprising the steps of: (i) measuring an initial velocity of said actuator piston while said actuator is maintained in a passive condition at an initial time; (ii) operating said actuator; (iii) measuring a subsequent velocity of said actuator piston while said actuator is maintained in a passive condition at a subsequent time; (iv) repeating steps (ii)-(iii) and either: recording or outputting the measured subsequent velocities over time; or determining a health status of said actuator when said subsequent velocity has increased above a predetermined amount.
G01M 3/28 - Investigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for pipes, cables, or tubesInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for pipe joints or sealsInvestigating fluid tightness of structures by using fluid or vacuum by measuring rate of loss or gain of fluid, e.g. by pressure-responsive devices, by flow detectors for valves
F15B 15/14 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit of the straight-cylinder type
F16J 15/3296 - Arrangements for monitoring the condition or operation of elastic sealingsArrangements for control of elastic sealings, e.g. of their geometry or stiffness
F15B 19/00 - Testing fluid-pressure actuator systems or apparatus, so far as not provided for elsewhere
The present invention goes away from conventional teaching and provides a stator having a construction that creates or allows induced currents thus providing a damping function. This effect is provided by forming the stator back iron of a solid piece of iron material or iron alloy as opposed to a stack of laminations or compressed powder.
A check device is provided for a flight actuator primary load path failure detection device of the type that disconnects a position sensor from the primary load path in the event of a primary load path failure. The check device comprises: a mechanical linkage for simulating disconnection of the position sensor by permitting relative movement of at least first and second mechanical parts of the actuator that are unable to move relative to one another in normal use without failure of the primary load path, wherein these first and second mechanical parts, include a first mechanical part with movement detected by the position sensor of the primary load path failure detection device.
Disclosed is an actuator for varying the position of a flight control surface on an aircraft, wherein the actuator comprises a no-back device including a backlash adjuster, which is arranged to select a plurality of different backlash lengths. The backlash adjuster may be a nut which moves relative a housing of the no-back device by rotating the nut. Also disclosed is a method of adjusting the backlash (B) in a flight control surface actuator, by moving the backlash adjuster axially to adjust the backlash (B) to a desired value.
An assembly comprises a component and a spherical bearing mounted in a bore of the component. The spherical bearing comprises an outer race received within the component bore, an inner spherical member mounted for rotation within the outer race and a releasable retaining element for releasably retaining the outer race in the component bore. The outer race and the component comprise interengaging indexing formations whereby said outer race may be mounted within said component bore in a plurality of angular positions relative to the longitudinal axis (A) of the component bore.
A compound planetary gear train includes a sun gear, a stationary annulus gear, a first set of planet gears meshing with the stationary annulus gear, a moving annulus gear and a second set of planet gears meshing with the sun gear and the moving annulus gear. The planet gears are biased into contact with the annulus gears.
A hydraulic circuit comprising an actuator having an extension chamber and a retraction chamber, a bypass passage provided in the hydraulic circuit between defined between the extension chamber and the retraction chamber, and a damping device. The damping device includes first and second chambers separated by a wall, a first movable element received within the first chamber and a second movable element received within the second chamber. The first moveable element is movable from its closed position against the force of the first spring by entry of fluid into the second chamber, and the second movable member being movable from its closed position against the force of the second spring by entry of fluid into the first chamber.
F16F 9/10 - Springs, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using liquid onlySprings, vibration-dampers, shock-absorbers, or similarly-constructed movement-dampers using a fluid or the equivalent as damping medium using a fluid of which the nature is immaterial
B64C 13/36 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant fluid
F16F 9/34 - Special valve constructionsShape or construction of throttling passages
F16F 9/512 - Means responsive to load action on the damper or fluid pressure in the damper
F15B 15/14 - Fluid-actuated devices for displacing a member from one position to anotherGearing associated therewith characterised by the construction of the motor unit of the straight-cylinder type
F16F 9/348 - Throttling passages in the form of annular discs operating in opposite directions
87.
Lower attachment for trimmable horizontal stabiliser actuator
A lower attachment system for a trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA) includes a screwshaft forming a part of or coupled to a main screw of the actuator, the screwshaft having an axial direction and a primary ballnut disposed on the screwshaft and forming a part of a primary load path of the lower attachment system. The THSA also includes a lower secondary nut and an upper secondary nut as well as a secondary connection arranged for axial and rotational movement and coupled to each of the lower secondary nut and the upper secondary nut. The secondary connection is arranged to be loaded when the secondary load path is loaded and the secondary load path also includes the upper and lower secondary nuts.
An upper attachment system for a trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator (THSA) comprises: a housing, holding a yoke and a ballscrew; a nut coupled to the housing and cooperating with the ballscrew such that rotation of the ballscrew relative to the nut results in linear motion of the ballscrew; a recess formed between the yoke and the ballscrew and arranged to receive, in use, an upper part of a tie bar of the secondary load path of the actuator; and a biasing mechanism arranged such that, in use, when no axial load is applied to the tie bar, the yoke and the ballscrew are held by balanced forces from the biasing mechanism in a position within the recess.
A screw (20) assembly for an actuator (10) is described comprising: a screw (20); a nut (22) threaded on said screw (20), such that rotation of said screw (20) causes axial movement of said nut (22); a stop located at an end of said screw (20) and defining an axial limit of said nut (22); a first feature located on said nut (22); and a second feature located on said stop; wherein said first and second features are configured to cooperate with one another substantially upon contact of said nut (22) with said stop so as to indicate an amount of free movement between said nut (22) and said screw (20).
A connecting rod assembly for a flight control surface actuation system, the assembly comprising a connecting rod for connecting a flight control surface to a rotary actuator and a position sensor mounted to the connecting rod for sensing the position of the connecting rod relative to a rotary actuator.
B64C 13/30 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical using cable, chain, or rod mechanisms
91.
Rotary actuator for controlling a flight control surface
A rotary actuator for controlling a flight control surface and a flight control surface actuation assembly including the rotary actuator. The actuator comprises a rotary output shaft for driving a flight control surface, a locking mechanism for selectively preventing rotation of the rotary output shaft and a torque limiter for allowing the locking mechanism to be bypassed upon the locking mechanism experiencing a torque above a predetermined limit.
A gearbox includes two axially spaced epicyclic gear trains, each having a sun gear, axially spaced planet gears carried by a planet carrier, and a ring gear fixed to the gear box. One of the planet gears engages with the fixed ring gear, and another of the planet gears engages with an output ring gear. The sun gears of the two gear trains are mounted on a single shaft. The planet carriers of the two gear trains are mounted on a shaft so that they can freely rotate but have limited axial motion along the shaft. The two output ring gears are helical gears of opposite handedness.
F16H 3/44 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio or for reversing rotary motion using gears having orbital motion
F16H 1/28 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion with gears having orbital motion
F16H 1/32 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion with gears having orbital motion in which the central axis of the gearing lies inside the periphery of an orbital gear
An electrical motor including a stator, said stator comprising a back iron, a plurality of teeth extending therefrom, and windings wound around said teeth; a rotary body comprising permanent magnets positioned between said stator and said rotary body; said rotary body being coaxially rotatable relative to the stator about a central axis; means for rotating said rotary body about said central axis of rotation relative to said stator, and wherein said back iron of said stator further comprises a first loop of electrical resistive wire extending therein.
H02K 3/16 - Windings characterised by the conductor shape, form or construction, e.g. with bar conductors arranged in slots for auxiliary purposes, e.g. damping or commutating
H02K 3/28 - Layout of windings or of connections between windings
H02K 11/20 - Structural association of dynamo-electric machines with electric components or with devices for shielding, monitoring or protection for measuring, monitoring, testing, protecting or switching
H02K 21/00 - Synchronous motors having permanent magnetsSynchronous generators having permanent magnets
A servo valve torque motor apparatus including a pair of pole pieces; one or more permanent magnet(s) held between the pole pieces an armature supported between the pole pieces for rotation about an axis; the armature being for connection to a member that resists rotation of the armature; and a coil on the armature; wherein when an electrical current is passed through the coil the armature is rotated against the member; and wherein the magnet(s) is/are secured to the two pole pieces by mechanical fixings passing through holes in the magnet(s).
H02K 1/18 - Means for mounting or fastening magnetic stationary parts on to, or to, the stator structures
F15B 9/09 - Servomotors with follow-up action, i.e. in which the position of the actuated member conforms with that of the controlling member with servomotors of the reciprocatable or oscillatable type controlled by valves affecting the fluid feed or the fluid outlet of the servomotor with electrical control means
F15B 13/043 - Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with a single servomotor operated by fluid pressure with electrically-controlled pilot valves
An actuator including a pair of load sensors arranged in the load path through the actuator. The load sensors are antagonistically preloaded and their outputs electrically connected to a processor for calculating a load in the actuator from the difference in loads measured by the respective load sensors.
G01L 1/18 - Measuring force or stress, in general using properties of piezo-resistive materials, i.e. materials of which the ohmic resistance varies according to changes in magnitude or direction of force applied to the material
G01L 5/00 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes
F16C 19/52 - Bearings with rolling contact, for exclusively rotary movement with devices affected by abnormal or undesired conditions
G01L 5/12 - Apparatus for, or methods of, measuring force, work, mechanical power, or torque, specially adapted for specific purposes for measuring axial thrust in a rotary shaft, e.g. of propulsion plants
A damping assembly is described herein for use in a device having moving aerodynamic surfaces including a first component comprising a back iron and at least one permanent magnet, said at least one permanent magnet providing a first magnetic field, and an electrically conductive second component, said electrically conductive second component and said first component being positioned coaxially about a central axis with said at least one permanent magnet being positioned between said back iron of said first component and said electrically conductive second component; the assembly further comprising means for rotating one or both of said at least one permanent magnet of said first component and said electrically conductive second component about said central axis to cause relative rotational movement between the at least one permanent magnet and second component, to thereby induce a variable magnetic flux in said electrically conductive second component and cause eddy currents to develop.
F16F 15/03 - Suppression of vibrations of non-rotating, e.g. reciprocating, systemsSuppression of vibrations of rotating systems by use of members not moving with the rotating system using electromagnetic means
B64D 45/00 - Aircraft indicators or protectors not otherwise provided for
B64C 13/50 - Transmitting means with power amplification using electrical energy
H02K 49/04 - Dynamo-electric clutchesDynamo-electric brakes of the asynchronous induction type of the eddy-current hysteresis type
A flight control actuator drive including a first motor for providing a first rotational input, a second motor for providing a second rotational input and a speed summing device for combining the first and second rotational inputs into a rotational output for controlling an actuator. The speed summing device comprises first and second input gears to which the first and second motors are connected via first and second irreversible gears so that the first and second input gears can each transmit power in one direction only. The speed summing device may be a planetary gear assembly.
B64C 13/34 - Transmitting means without power amplification or where power amplification is irrelevant mechanical using toothed gearing
F16H 37/08 - Combinations of mechanical gearings, not provided for in groups comprising essentially only toothed or friction gearings with a plurality of driving or driven shaftsCombinations of mechanical gearings, not provided for in groups comprising essentially only toothed or friction gearings with arrangements for dividing torque between two or more intermediate shafts with differential gearing
F16H 1/36 - Toothed gearings for conveying rotary motion with gears having orbital motion with two central gears coupled by intermeshing orbital gears
B64C 13/42 - Transmitting means with power amplification using fluid pressure having duplication or stand-by provisions
B64C 13/50 - Transmitting means with power amplification using electrical energy
A Stability and Command Augmentation System (SCAS) for an aircraft, the SCAS including, a first input shaft providing a first rotational input; a second input shaft providing a second rotational input; and a device for summing the first and second rotational inputs to give a rotational output for controlling an actuator. A method of operating a SCAS on an aircraft, the method including providing a pilot input order in the form of a rotating first shaft, providing an augmentation input order in the form of a rotating second shaft, summing the rotation of the pilot input order and the augmentation input order to give an output order; and using the output order to control an actuator.
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
G05D 1/08 - Control of attitude, i.e. control of roll, pitch, or yaw
G05G 11/00 - Manually-actuated control mechanisms provided with two or more controlling members co-operating with one single controlled member
B64C 13/42 - Transmitting means with power amplification using fluid pressure having duplication or stand-by provisions
B64C 13/18 - Initiating means actuated automatically, e.g. responsive to gust detectors using automatic pilot
B64C 13/44 - Transmitting means with power amplification using fluid pressure overriding of personal controlsTransmitting means with power amplification using fluid pressure with automatic return to inoperative position
99.
Device for detecting breakage of a primary path in a flight control actuator
A device (13) for detecting the breakage of a primary path in a flight control actuator, said actuator having a primary path (1) comprising a rotary hollow screw (2), a secondary path (10) comprising a safety rod (3) that reacts the load passing through the screw (2), said device (13) being characterized in that it comprises a position sensor (15), connected to the screw (2), to measure information representative of the angular position thereof, and a disconnection system (17) able to disconnect the screw (2) position sensor (15) in the event of relative movement of the rod (3) with respect to the screw (2) if there is a break in the primary path (1).
A control valve comprises a first spool 22, a second spool 24 encircling at least part of the first spool 22 and angularly moveable relative thereto, and a sleeve 32 encircling at least part of the second spool 24, the second spool 24 being angularly moveable relative to the sleeve 32, the first and second spools 22, 24 having first and second series of ports 28, 30 registrable with one another, depending upon the relative angular positions of the first and second spools 22, 24, to control communication between at least a pressure line 16, a return line 18 and a control line 50 provided in or connected to the sleeve 32, the second spool 24 and the sleeve 32 having third and fourth series of ports 66, 68, axially spaced from the first and second series of ports 28, 30 and registrable with one another, depending upon the relative angular positions of the second spool 24 and the sleeve 32, to control communication between at least the control line 50 and the return line 18, and latch means 56 operable to resist movement of the second spool 24 relative to the sleeve 32.
F15B 13/04 - Fluid distribution or supply devices characterised by their adaptation to the control of servomotors for use with a single servomotor
F15B 20/00 - Safety arrangements for fluid actuator systemsApplications of safety devices in fluid actuator systemsEmergency measures for fluid actuator systems
