EP2976518A1

EP2976518A1 - Actuation device for moving a movable cover of a thrust reverser

Info

Publication number: EP2976518A1
Application number: EP14713076.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Mickael WERQUIN; Denis DAUVERGNE; Oleg GOMOLKO
Original assignee: Sagem Defense Securite SA
Current assignee: Safran Electronics and Defense SAS
Priority date: 2013-03-22
Filing date: 2014-03-21
Publication date: 2016-01-27
Also published as: US9458795B2; FR3003605B1; BR112015024104A2; CA2907391A1; CN105074187A; FR3003605A1; CN105074187B; WO2014147247A1; RU2635748C2; US20160061146A1; RU2015145277A

Abstract

The invention relates to an actuation device (1) for moving a movable cover of a thrust reverser. Said actuation device includes: - an actuator including a first element (4), such as a screw, and a second element (5), such as a nut, that engages with the first element such that rotation of the first element causes translation of the second element; - a locking portion (31) rotatable between a locked position, wherein the locking portion prevents the first element (4) from rotating, and an unlocked position, wherein the locking portion (31) allows the first element (4) to rotate; and - an inhibiting part (45) that is translatable between a first position, wherein the inhibiting part (45) allows the locking portion (31) to rotate, and a second position, wherein the inhibiting part (45) prevents the locking portion (31) from rotating into the locked position.

Description

ACTUATING DEVICE FOR MOVING A MOBILE HOOD FROM A THRUST INVERTER

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to an actuating device for moving a movable cowl of a thrust reverser.

STATE OF THE ART

Power plant systems (PPS) generally comprise a nacelle and a turbojet engine attached to a pylon of a wing or to a fuselage of the aircraft. In the case of a turbojet turbofan, the turbojet includes a gas generator (high pressure body or CoHP), a low pressure body (or CoBP), a blower and nozzles. The blower makes it possible to accelerate a secondary air flow circulating in an air duct of the blower, to generate the thrust necessary for the propulsion of the aircraft.

Aircraft propulsion units generally include a thrust reversal (TR) system (Thrust Reverse) for reversing the thrust in the landing phases to improve the braking capability of the aircraft. Such a system comprises a set of movable hoods actuated by a set of associated actuators for temporarily obstructing the air stream and deflecting the secondary air flow to the outside and towards the front of the nacelle, generating therefore a counter-thrust which is added to the braking of the wheels.

In the case of a thrust reverser system called "doors", the platform is equipped with movable covers (called "doors") which pivot relative to the structure of the nacelle between a retracted position in which the hoods allow a flow of air flow in the vein outwardly and rearwardly of the nacelle and a deployed position in which the hoods obstruct the vein and reorient the flow of air outwards and forwards Platform.

In the case of a "grids" or "cascade" thrust reversal system, the nacelle is equipped with movable cowlings that slide by

FLEI LLE OF REM PLACEM ENT (REG 26) relative to the structure of the nacelle along rails between a retracted position in which the hoods allow circulation of the secondary flow in the vein outwardly and rearwardly of the nacelle and a deployed position in which the hoods discover deflection vane grids arranged in the thickness of the nacelle and obstruct the air stream through flaps whose actuation is linked to the movement of the covers.

In general, in either case, the movable covers are actuated by a set of dedicated actuators. Mechanical synchronization of the movement of the actuators is ensured by a synchronization system comprising flexible shafts mechanically connecting the actuators to each other.

In addition, the thrust reversal systems necessarily include several locking devices to prevent inadvertent deployment of the hoods in phase of flight. Among the locking devices fitted to the thrust reversal systems, certain locking systems called "primary" or PLS ("Primary Lock System") act on the flexible shaft to lock the flexible shaft in rotation.

US 6,786,039 discloses a thrust reverser operating system comprising a driven actuator moving between a retracted configuration and an expanded configuration through a drive shaft connected to a flexible shaft. The system includes a locking device that can be controlled to engage or disengage the drive shaft to prevent or allow rotation of the drive shaft. The system further includes a lock inhibitor for holding the latch in the disengaged position until the actuator is in a retracted configuration.

The locking device comprises a movable locking pin in translation, a return spring for biasing the rod towards the engaged position and an electromagnet which can be activated to bias the rod towards the disengaged position.

FIREPLACE REMPLACEMENT (RULE 26) Such a locking device must be designed not to unlock in case of shock. In particular, the device must operate despite significant dynamic loads that can occur in the event of loss of a blade of the aircraft engine ("Fan Blade Out"), three of these shocks can generate sudden accelerations. The locking device must also be insensitive to other sources of excitation (unbalance, rolling shocks, etc.) that can cause acceleration up to 200 G.

Therefore, in locking devices, it is generally necessary to provide a return spring having a high stiffness to ensure that the locking rod is not disengaged in case of impact. This has the consequence that it is also necessary to provide an electromagnet capable of generating a large unlocking force in order to overcome the force exerted by the return spring and to disengage the locking rod.

It follows that the locking device necessarily has a large footprint because of the large dimensions of the spring and the electromagnet which are provided to prevent inadvertent unlocking.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An object of the invention is to provide an actuating device which has a small footprint.

This object is achieved in the context of the present invention by means of an actuating device for moving a movable cowl of a thrust reverser, comprising:

an actuator comprising a first element and a second element movably mounted in translation relative to the first element, one of the first element and the second element being a screw, and the other being a nut adapted to cooperate with the screw, so that a rotation of the first element relative to the second element causes a translation of the second element relative to the first element,

FLEI LLE OF REM PLACEM ENT (REG 26) a locking device comprising a locking part movable in rotation with respect to the first element between a locked position in which the locking part prevents the rotation of the first element and an unlocked position in which the locking part allows the rotation of the first element; , and a drive member adapted to rotate the locking portion to the unlocked position,

a locking inhibiting device comprising an inhibition member movable in translation relative to the first element between a first position in which the muting part allows rotation of the locking part between the locked position and the unlocked position, and second position in which the muting member prevents rotation of the locking portion to the locked position.

Since the locking part is movable in rotation (and not in translation), the locking device can be designed so that the locking part is very insensitive to the sudden accelerations that can be exerted on the actuating device in case of choc.

In addition, the locking device can be designed so that the drive member directly drives the locking portion, that is to say without intermediate transmission mechanism, such as a gear, for example, which generates friction.

it is thus possible to design a device incorporating a drive member of reduced dimensions, and a return member of reduced dimensions.

The device can furthermore have the following characteristics:

the locking part is rotatable about an axis parallel to an axis of rotation of the first element,

the locking device comprises a tooth mounted to rotate with the first element, the locking part being clean, in the locked position, in engagement with the tooth to prevent rotation of the first element,

the tooth is asymmetric so that in the locked position, the locking portion prevents rotation of the first element in a first

FLEI LLE OF REM PLACEM ENT (REG 26) direction and allows the rotation of the first element in a second direction, opposite to the first direction,

the locking part comprises a convex portion and a substantially flat or concave portion, the portions being arranged so that in the locked position, the convex portion impedes the rotation of the first element, and in the unlocked position, the substantially flat portion; or concave allows rotation of the first element,

the drive member comprises a rotary electromagnet,

the driving member has an axis of rotation coinciding with an axis of rotation of the locking part,

the locking device comprises a return member suitable for biasing the locking part towards the locked position,

the inhibition device comprises a latch integral in rotation with the locking part and an opening through which the latch passes when the locking part is rotated,

when the muting piece is in the second position, the muting piece obstructs the opening to prevent the passage of the latch through the opening,

the inhibition device is in the first position, the inhibition piece discovers the opening to allow the passage of the latch through the opening,

the muting part comprises a solid part and an open part having an opening and, when the muting piece is in the first position, the open part is aligned with the catch to allow the latch to pass through the opening, and when the muting piece is in the second position, the solid part is aligned with the latch to prevent rotation of the latch,

the inhibition device comprises a return member able to urge the muting piece towards the second position,

the actuator comprises a rod movable in translation relative to the first element, the movable rod being able to be urged by the second element to move the muting part to the first position,

FIREPLACE OF REM PLACEM ENT (RULE 26) the movable rod extends at least partly inside the first element,

the device further comprises a manual unlocking device for rotating the locking part in order to bring the locking part into the unlocked position without activating the drive member,

the drive member comprises a rotor and a stator, and the manual unlocking device comprises a first part movable in rotation with respect to the stator, the first part being clean when it is rotated in a first direction, engaging the rotor to rotate the rotor so as to move the locking portion to the unlocked position, and when rotated in a second direction, opposite the first direction, to be disengaged from the rotor;

the manual unlocking device comprises a second piece fixed relative to the stator, and a third piece movable in translation with respect to the first piece and integral in rotation with the first piece, and the third part comprises a slidable piece. in a lumen formed in the second piece to guide the translation of the third piece relative to the first and second pieces and / or guide the rotation of the second and third pieces relative to the first piece,

- the first element is the screw and the second element is the nut. PRESENTATION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other features and advantages will become apparent from the description which follows, which is purely illustrative and nonlimiting and should be read in conjunction with the appended figures, among which:

FIG. 1 schematically represents, in perspective, an actuating device according to an embodiment of the invention,

FIGS. 2A and 2B schematically represent the device, in longitudinal section,

FLEI LLE OF REM PLACEM ENT (REG 26) - Figures 3 and 4 are partial views, in section and in perspective, of the actuating device, when the locking portion is in the locked position,

FIG. 5 schematically represents the locking part in the locked position,

- Figures 6 and 7 are partial views, in section and in perspective, of the actuating device, when the locking portion is in the unlocked position,

FIG. 8 schematically represents the locking part in the unlocked position,

- Figures 9 and 10 are partial views, in section and in perspective, of the actuating device, when the locking portion is being locked,

- Figures 1 1 and 12 are partial views, in section and in perspective, of the actuating device, when the locking portion is unlocked manually,

FIGS. 13 and 14 are detailed views of the manual unlocking device, respectively in the locked position and in the unlocked position,

- Figure 15 schematically shows a light and a pin of the manual unlocking device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT

In FIGS. 1, 2A and 2B, the device 1 represented comprises an actuator 2. The actuator 2 comprises a housing 3, a screw 4 extending from the housing 3, a nut 5 and an actuator tube 6.

The screw 4 has a body 7 of generally elongate cylindrical shape. The screw 4 is rotatably mounted relative to the housing 3 of the device about an axis of rotation X corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the body 7 and also corresponding to a deployment axis of the actuator 2.

The screw 4 comprises a first end 8 (or receiving end) intended to receive a driving torque and a second end 9, opposite to the first end 8. The actuator 2 comprises

FLEI LLE OF REM PLACEM ENT (REG 26) a conical input wheel 10 mounted integral with the screw 4, at the first end 9 of the screw 4. The conical input wheel 10 meshes with a gear part 11 of a drive shaft 12, so that to transmit a rotational movement of the drive shaft 12 to the screw 4.

The nut 5 extends around the body 7 of the screw 4. The nut 5 is fixed to the actuator tube 6. The actuator tube 6 has a first end 13 connected to the nut 5 and a second end 14 connected to a movable component of the thrust reverser (not shown), such as a movable cowl for example, through a ball joint 15.

The nut 5 is mounted to move in translation relative to the screw 4 along the longitudinal axis X of the screw 4 between two extreme positions respectively corresponding to a retracted configuration and to an expanded configuration of the actuator 2.

The body 7 of the screw 4 has a cylindrical outer surface 16 in which is formed a helical groove 17. The nut 5 has a cylindrical inner surface 18 in which is also formed a helical groove 19. The screw 4 and the nut 5 cooperate with each other through the helical grooves 17 and 19 in which are housed balls so that a rotation of the screw 4 relative to the nut 5 concomitantly causes a translation of the nut 5 relative to the screw 4 according to the direction X.

To deploy the actuator 2, the screw 4 is rotated about the X axis in a first direction of rotation so that the nut 5 moves along the screw in a first direction (arrow A) from the first end 9 of the screw 4 towards the second end 10 of the screw 4.

To retract the actuator 2, the screw 4 is rotated about the X axis in a second direction of rotation, opposite to the first direction of rotation, so that the nut 5 moves along the screw in a second direction (arrow B) from the second end 10 of the screw 4 to the first end 9 of the screw 4.

The device 1 also comprises a drive shaft 12 rotatably mounted relative to the housing 3 around a Y axis,

FIRE ILLE DE REM PLACEM ENT (RULE 26) perpendicular to the axis X. The drive shaft 12 has a first end 20 and a second end 21. The first end 20 is shaped to be connected to a first drive shaft of a thrust reverser or flexible shaft ( not shown), the first motor shaft being connected to a drive motor arranged at a distance from the actuating device 1. For this purpose, the drive shaft 12 has a bore with grooves 22. The second end 21 comprises a gear portion 11 forming a conical wheel arranged to mesh with the conical input wheel 10 of the screw 4 to drive the screw 4 in rotation.

When the motor is activated, the rotation of the screw 4 around the X axis concomitantly causes a translation of the nut 5 parallel to the X axis between a first extreme position (corresponding to a retracted configuration of the actuator) in which the movable component of the thrust reverser is retracted and a second end position (corresponding to an expanded configuration of the actuator) in which the movable component of the thrust reverser is deployed thus allowing to deflect the air flow circulating in the airstream of the fan to the front of the nacelle.

The actuator 2 also comprises a rod 23 movable in translation relative to the screw 4. For this purpose, the screw 4 comprises an axial bore 24 extending along the axis X, from the first end 8 of the screw 4 to the second end 9 of the screw 4, and the rod 23 is slidably mounted inside the bore 24. The rod 23 has a first end 25 and a second end 26, both adapted to protrude outside the screw 4, respectively at the first end 8 and the second end 9 of the screw 4.

The actuator 2 also comprises a return member 27 adapted to urge the rod 23 towards the second end 9 of the screw 4 (in the direction of the arrow A). The return member 27 is in this case a compression spring mounted between the body of the screw 4 and the movable rod 23.

FIRE ILLE DE REM PLACEM ENT (RULE 26) Due to the presence of the return member 27, the second end 26 of the rod 23 is kept in contact with the second end 14 of the actuator tube 6.

In this way, when the actuator 1 is in the retracted configuration, the actuator tube 6 urges the rod 23 towards the first end 8 of the screw 4 (in the direction of the arrow B), against the return force exerted by the return member 27. In this configuration (illustrated in Figures 2 and 3), the first end 25 of the movable rod 23 projects from the screw 4 on the side of the first end 8 of the screw 4.

Conversely, when the actuator 2 is in the deployed configuration, the actuator tube 6 no longer biases the rod 23. Only the return member 27 exerts an axial force on the rod 23 towards the second end 9 of the screw 4 (in the direction of arrow A). In this configuration (shown in FIG. 6), the first end 25 of the movable rod no longer projects from the screw 4 on the side of the first end 8 of the screw 4.

The device 1 further comprises a locking device 28 visible in FIGS. 3 to 10.

The locking device 28 is housed inside the casing 3 of the actuator 2. The locking device 28 serves to lock the screw 4 in rotation when the actuator 2 is in retracted configuration, and thus avoid deployment. inadvertent actuator 2, especially in the flight phase.

The locking device 28 generally comprises a drive member 29, a locking shaft 30 having a locking portion 31 and a return member 32.

The drive member 29 is a rotary electromagnetic drive member. The drive member 29 comprises a stator 33 fixedly mounted on the casing 3 of the actuator 2, and a rotor 34 adapted to be rotated with respect to the stator 33 along an axis of rotation X 'parallel to the axis X.

The stator 33 comprises an excitation coil which, when supplied with electric current, generates an excitation magnetic field.

FLEI LLE OF REM PLACEM ENT (REG 26) The rotor 34 comprises a magnetic core 35 which, under the effect of the excitation magnetic field generated by the excitation coil of the stator 33, is rotated relative to the stator 33.

The drive member 29 is adapted to rotate the locking shaft 30.

For this purpose, the locking shaft 30 has a first end connected to the rotor 34 of the drive member 29 and a second end from which the locking portion 31 extends. locking 30 has a longitudinal direction extending along the axis of rotation X '. The locking shaft 30 is mounted integral with the rotor 34 of the drive member 29.

The drive member 29 is arranged to drive the locking shaft and thus the locking portion 31 in rotation relative to the housing 3 about the axis of rotation X '.

Furthermore, the conical input wheel 10 of the actuator 2 has a locking ring 36 having two wolf teeth 37 arranged in diametrically opposite positions with respect to the locking ring 36.

As shown in Figures 5 and 8, the locking portion 31 is a latch having a half moon shape. More specifically, the locking portion 31 comprises a first portion 38 of convex shape and a second portion 39 of flat or substantially concave shape. The first portion 38 and the second portion 39 are arranged to be selectively positioned opposite the locking ring 36 when the locking portion 31 is rotated about the axis X 'by the drive member 29.

The locking portion 31 is adapted to be rotated between a locked position (illustrated in FIG. 5) in which the locking portion 31 prevents the rotation of the screw 4 of the actuator 2 and an unlocked position (illustrated in FIG. 8) in which the locking portion 31 allows the rotation of the screw 4 of the actuator 2.

In the locked position (FIG. 5), the first portion 38 of the locking portion 31 comes into engagement with a wolf tooth 37 of the

FIREPLACE OF REM PLACEM ENT (RULE 26) locking ring 36 to prevent the rotation of the screw 4 in a first direction (arrow C) corresponding to the direction of rotation of the screw 4 during deployment of the actuator 2.

In the unlocked position (FIG. 8), the first portion 38 of the locking portion 31 is disengaged from the wolf tooth 37 and the second portion 39 of the locking portion allows the rotation of the screw 4.

The wolf teeth 37 of the locking ring 36 are asymmetrical so that when the locking portion 31 is in the locked position (FIG. 5), the locking portion 31 prevents the rotation of the screw 4 in the first direction (arrow C ) corresponding to the direction of rotation of the screw 4 during the deployment of the actuator, but allows the rotation of the screw 4 in a second direction (arrow D), opposite to the first direction, and corresponding to the direction of rotation of the screw 4 when retracting the actuator.

In other words, when the locking portion 31 is in the locked position, a retraction of the actuator 2 is possible while a deployment of the actuator 2 is impossible.

The return member 32 is able to urge the locking portion 31 towards the locked position. In other words, the return member 32 exerts a return torque which opposes a rotation of the locking portion 31 towards the unlocked position caused by the drive member 29. The return member 32 is a spring of torsion arranged between the casing 3 of the actuator 2 and the locking shaft 30. The spring is a helical spring extending around the locking shaft 30.

The actuating device 1 also comprises a locking inhibitor device 40 housed inside the casing 3 of the actuator 2. The function of the locking inhibitor device 40 is to hold the locking part 31 in the unlocked position as long as the actuator 2 is not fully retracted, to avoid inadvertent locking of the actuator 2 which could block the actuator 2 during its deployment, especially in the landing phase.

The locking inhibitor device 40 comprises a latch 41 mounted integral with the locking shaft 30. The latch 41 extends in a

FIREPLACE REMPLACEMENT (RULE 26) direction substantially radial with respect to the axis X '. Thus, when the drive member 29 is activated, it simultaneously rotates the locking portion 31 and the latch 41.

The latch 41 has a first end 42 fixed to the drive shaft 30 and a second free end 43, opposite the first end 42. The second end 43 extends away from the axis X '.

The locking inhibitor device 40 also comprises a liner 44 fixedly mounted relative to the casing 3 and an inhibition member 45 (or striker) movable in translation relative to the liner 44, in a direction of translation parallel to the X axis .

More specifically, the muting piece 45 is slidably mounted inside the liner 44. The liner 44 extends in the extension of the screw 4 of the actuator 2.

In this way, the muting part 45 is movable in translation relative to the casing 3 parallel to the axis X.

The muting piece 45 is movable between a first position (shown in FIGS. 3 and 4) in which the muting piece 45 allows the latch 41 to rotate, and a second position (shown in FIGS. 6 and 7) in which the inhibition part 45 hinders the rotation of the latch 41.

More specifically, the liner 44 comprises an opening 46, in the form of a slot extending parallel to a plane transverse to the axis X. The opening 46 is dimensioned so as to allow passage of the free end 43 latch 41 through opening 46 upon rotation of latch 41.

Inhibition member 45 comprises a body 64 which comprises a solid portion 65 and an open portion 66. The open portion 66 has an opening 67.

When the inhibiting piece 45 is in the first position

(FIGS. 3 and 4), the muting piece 45 does not obstruct the opening 46. Indeed, in this position, the opening 67 of the muting piece 45 coincides with the opening 46 of the sleeve 44. In addition, the opening 67 of the room

FLEI LLE OF REM PLACEM ENT (REG 26) of inhibition 45 is aligned with the free end 43 of the latch 41. In this way, when the latch 41 is rotated about the axis X ', the free end 43 of the latch 41 passes freely through the openings 46 and 67.

When the inhibiting piece 45 is in the second position

(Figures 6 and 7), the muting part obstructs the opening 46, so that in case of rotation of the latch 41, the latch 41 abuts against the muting piece 45. Indeed, in this position , the opening 67 of the muting piece 45 is offset relative to the opening 46 of the liner 44. The opening 46 of the liner 44 is obstructed by the solid portion 65 of the muting piece 45, so that the latch 41 abuts against the solid portion 65 of the inhibiting piece 45.

The locking inhibitor device 40 also comprises a return member 47 able to urge the muting piece 45 towards the second position (in the direction of the arrow A). The return member 47 is a compression spring extending between the liner 44 and the inhibiting member 45.

The liner 44 also has an orifice 48 permitting penetration of the first end 25 of the movable rod 23 inside the liner 44. In this way, the movable rod 23 is able to urge the inhibition piece 45 towards the first position (in the direction of arrow B), against the force exerted by the return member 47.

The actuating device 1 also comprises a manual unlocking device 49 comprising a housing 50 mounted integral with the housing 3 of the actuator 2, a bushing 51 rotatably mounted in the housing 50 and a rod 52 mounted to move in translation inside. of the sleeve 51 and integral in rotation with the sleeve 51.

The sleeve 51 makes it possible to manually control a rotation of the locking shaft 30, and consequently of the locking portion 31, in order to unlock the locking device 28 without activating the drive member 29. For this purpose , the sleeve 51 comprises a wolf tooth 69 adapted to cooperate with a wolf tooth 68 of the rotor 34 of the drive member 29 to rotate the rotor 34.

FLEI LLE OF REM PLACEM ENT (REG 26) The bushing 51 has a longitudinal internal bore in which the rod 52 extends. The bushing 51 has two longitudinal oblong slots. The rod 52 comprises two pins 54 extending from the longitudinal portion of the rod 52, in a radial direction. The pins 54 extend through the slots and are adapted to slide longitudinally along the slots. In this way the rod 52 is integral in rotation with the sleeve 51 while being movable in translation relative to the sleeve 51.

Furthermore, the casing 50 comprises a wall in which is formed a light 53 in the general shape of U. As shown in Figure 15, the light 53 has two longitudinal branches 55 and 56 and a transverse portion 57 connecting the two branches , the transverse portion 57 being disposed on the side of the drive member 29 and the ends 58 and 59 of the branches 55 and 56 being oriented towards a side opposite to the drive member 29.

One of the pins 54 extends through the U-shaped light 53 formed in the wall of the housing 50.

The pin 54 is able to slide from one end 58 to the other 59 of the light 53. When the pin 54 is in one or other of the branches 55, 56 of the U-shaped light 53, the rod 52 can slide inside the screw parallel to the axis X '. When the pin 54 is in the transverse portion 57 of the slot 53, the bushing assembly 51 + rod 52 can rotate relative to the housing 50 about the axis X '.

In addition, the manual unlocking device 49 comprises a return member 60 capable of biasing the rod 52 in a first direction (arrow E) tending to move the rod 52 away from the rotor 34. In other words, the return member 60 exerts on the rod 52 a restoring force tending to maintain the pin 54 in a branch 55, 56 of the light 53. The return member 60 is for example a compression spring arranged between the rod 52 and the housing 50.

Finally, the actuating device 1 comprises two position sensors 61 and 62 mounted on the housing 3 of the actuator 2. The sensors 61 and 62 are arranged to detect the position of the locking portion 31

FIREPLACE OF REM PLACEM ENT (RULE 26) (locked position or unlocked position). For this purpose, the actuating device 1 also comprises a target 63 mounted integral with the locking shaft 30. In this way, the target 63 is rotated by the drive member 29 around the X axis at the same time as the locking portion 31.

When the locking portion 31 is in the locked position, the target 63 is positioned opposite the sensors 61 and 62. Each sensor 61, 62 detects the presence of the target 63. When the locking portion 31 is in the unlocked position, the target 63 is no longer positioned opposite the sensors 61 and 62. Each sensor 61, 62 detects the absence of the target 63. The presence or absence of the target 63 in front of the sensors 61, 62 makes it possible to control that the part locking 31 is in the locked or unlocked position.

The operation of the actuating device 1 which has just been described is as follows.

Initially, the actuator 2 is in the retracted configuration and the locking portion 31 is in the locked position as shown in FIGS. 3 to 5. In this position, the locking portion 31 is engaged with one of the teeth of the wolf. 37 to prevent a rotation of the screw 4 in the first direction (arrow C). The locking portion 31 is held in the locked position under the effect of the return torque exerted by the return member 32 on the drive shaft 30. In this position, the locking portion 31 prevents inadvertent deployment of the actuator 2.

Moreover, the inhibition part 45 is in the first position (FIGS. 3 and 4). In other words, the inhibition piece 45 does not obstruct the opening 46 of the jacket 44.

When the pilot controls the deployment of the thrust reverser, a control system triggers the supply of the drive member 29. The driver 29 then applies an unlocking torque on the locking shaft 30. The unlocking torque applied by the drive member 29 opposes the torque exerted by the return member 32, which has the effect of rotating the locking shaft 30, including the locking portion 31, around of the X 'axis.

SUBSTITUTE SHEET (RULE 26) The driving member 29 rotates the locking portion 31 which moves from the locked position (shown in Fig. 5) to the unlocked position (shown in Fig. 8).

The rotation of the locking portion 31 has the effect of disengaging the convex portion 38 of the locking portion 31 of the wolf tooth 37.

In addition, the driving member 29 also rotates the latch 41. This has the effect that the free end 43 of the latch 41 passes through the opening 46 of the liner 44.

Once the locking portion 31 is in the unlocked position (FIGS. 6-8), the actuator can be deployed. Indeed, the locking portion 31 is no longer opposed to the rotation of the screw 4 in the first direction (arrow C).

The screw 4 is rotated in the first direction so that the nut 5 is translated along the screw 4 in the direction X away from the first end 8 (or receiving end) of the screw 4 and approaching the second end 9. The nut 5 moves along the screw in the first direction (arrow A).

As the nut 5 moves away from the first end 8 of the screw 4, the actuator tube 6 stops urging the movable rod 23. Therefore, the movable rod 23 moves with respect to the screw 4 in the first direction (arrow A) under the action of the return member 27, so that the movable rod 23 stops urging the muting piece 45. The muting piece 45 is moved in translation along the X axis towards the second position (FIG. 6) under the action of the return member 47.

This has the effect that the muting piece 45 obstructs the opening 46 of the liner 44 (FIGS. 6 and 7), thereby preventing rotation of the latch 41, and consequently a return of the locking portion 31 towards the locked position.

From this moment, the driving member 29 can be deactivated, without the locking portion 31 can return to the locked position. Indeed, the muting part 45 holds the locking part 31 in the unlocked position.

FIREPLACE OF REM PLACEM ENT (RULE 26) This has the consequence that the actuator 2 can not be locked until the nut 5 has returned to the retracted position, that is to say until the actuator 2 has returned to the retracted configuration. .

When the thrust reverser is retracted, the screw 4 of the actuator is rotated in the second direction (arrow D) so that the nut 5 is translated along the screw 4 in the direction X towards the first end (or receiving end) of the screw 4. When the nut 5 approaches the first end 8, the actuator tube 6 urges the movable rod 23 against the return member 27. The movable rod 23 urges the inhibition piece 45 against the return member 47 (Figures 9 and 10). Under the effect of the bias exerted by the movable rod 23, the muting piece 45 is displaced in translation along the X axis to the first position (in the direction of arrow B).

When the muting piece 45 reaches the first position (FIGS. 9 and 10), the muting piece 45 no longer obstructs the opening 46, thus permitting rotation of the latch 41, and consequently of the locking portion 31. .

Under the effect of the return member 32, the locking portion 31 is rotated towards the locking position.

In this way, the complete retraction of the actuator 2 causes an automatic return of the locking portion 31 in the locked position. Once the locking portion 31 is in the locked position, the locking device 28 can no longer be unlocked unless the pilot again controls the deployment of the thrust reverser, which triggers the activation of the locking member. training 29.

To allow maintenance operations to be carried out, it is nevertheless possible to unlock the actuator 2 without activating the driver 29 by means of the manual unlocking device 49.

The manual unlocking is carried out as follows.

The pin 54 is initially positioned at the end 58 of the first leg 55 of the light 53. The pin 54 is held in this position by the return member 60.

The operator uses a key to successively:

FIREPLACE REMPLACEMENT (RULE 26) pushing on the rod 52 against the return member 60 (in the first direction corresponding to the arrow E), which has the effect of firstly displacing the rod 52 in translation in the first direction relative to the housing 50 parallel to the axis X, and secondly to slide the pin 54 in the first branch 55 of the light 53, then

- Rotate the rod assembly 52 + sleeve 51 relative to the housing 50, which has the effect of on the one hand to rotate the rotor 34 of the drive member 29 via the teeth of wolf 68 and 69, and secondly to slide the pin 54 in the transverse portion 57 of the light 53.

The rotation of the rotor 34 of the drive member 29 concurrently causes a rotation of the locking portion 31 to the unlocked position.

Once the locking portion 31 in the unlocked position, the operator releases the thrust force exerted on the rod 52. Under the effect of the return member 60, the rod 52 is displaced in translation in the second direction ( arrow F), opposite the first direction, relative to the housing 50 parallel to the axis X.

The displacement of the rod 52 in the second direction has the effect of sliding the pin 54 in the second branch 56 of the light 53 to the end 59 of the second branch 56.

In this position, the pin 54 locks the rod 52 in rotation and prevents a return of the locking portion 31 in the locked position.

Once the maintenance operation is completed, the operator locks the actuator 2 again as follows.

The operator uses the key to push again on the rod 52 against the return member 60 (in the first direction corresponding to the arrow E), which has the effect of on the one hand to move the rod 52 in translation in the first direction relative to the housing 50 parallel to the axis X, and secondly to slide the pin 54 in the second branch 56 of the light 53.

When the pin 54 reaches the transverse portion 57 of the light, the locking portion 31 is moved to the locked position under the effect

FLEI LLE OF REM PLACEM ENT (REG 26) of the return member 32 of the locking device 28. The pin 54 slides in the transverse portion 57 of the light towards the first branch 55.

Then, when the pin 54 reaches the first leg 55, the pin slides in the light 53 to the end 58 of the first leg 55 under the effect of the return member 60 of the manual unlocking device 49. this position, the wolf tooth 69 no longer interacts with the wolf tooth 68. Therefore, the rotor 34 is free to rotate relative to the sleeve 51. Thus, the rotor 34 is no longer in contact with the wiper device. manual unlocking 49.

FLEI LLE OF REM PLACEM ENT (REG 26)

Claims

1. An actuating device (1) for moving a movable cowl of a thrust reverser, comprising:

an actuator (2) comprising a first element (4) and a second element (5) movably mounted in translation relative to the first element (4), one of the first element and the second element being a screw, and other being a nut adapted to cooperate with the screw, so that a rotation of the first element (4) relative to the second element (5) causes a translation of the second element (5) relative to the first element (4),

a locking device (28) comprising a locking portion (31) rotatable with respect to the first member (4) between a locked position in which the locking portion (31) prevents rotation of the first member (4) and an unlocked position in which the locking portion (31) allows rotation of the first member (4), and a drive member (29) adapted to rotate the locking portion (31) to the unlocked position,

a locking inhibiting device (40) comprising an inhibition piece (45) movable in translation relative to the first element (4) between a first position in which the muting piece (45) allows the rotation of the part of locking (31) between the locked position and the unlocked position, and a second position in which the muting member (45) prevents rotation of the locking portion (31) to the locked position.

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the locking portion (31) is rotatable about an axis (Χ ') parallel to an axis (X) of rotation of the first member (4).

3. Device according to one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the locking device (28) comprises a tooth (37) mounted to rotate with the first member (4), the locking portion (31) being clean, in locked position, to come into engagement with the tooth (37) to prevent rotation of the first element (4).

4. Device according to claim 3, wherein the tooth (37) is asymmetric so that in the locked position, the locking portion (31) prohibits the rotation of the first element (4) in a first direction (C) and allows the rotation of the first element (4) in a second direction (D), opposite to the first direction.

5. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking portion (31) comprises a convex portion (38) and a substantially flat portion (39) arranged so that in the locked position, the convex portion (38). ) obstructs the rotation of the first element (4), and in the unlocked position, the substantially planar portion (39) allows the rotation of the first element (4).

6. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the drive member (29) comprises a rotating electromagnet.

7. Device according to claim 6, wherein the drive member (29) has an axis of rotation (Χ ') coinciding with an axis of rotation of the locking portion (31).

8. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the locking device (28) comprises a biasing member (32) adapted to bias the locking portion (31) to the locked position.

9. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inhibiting device (40) comprises a latch (41) integral in rotation with the locking portion (31) and an opening (46, 67) through which the catch (41) passes when the locking portion (31) is rotated.

10. Device according to claim 9, wherein, when the muting piece (45) is in the second position, the muting piece (41) obstructs the opening (46) to prevent the passage of the latch (41). through the opening (46).

1 1. Device according to one of claims 9 and 10, wherein, when the muting piece (45) is in the first position, the muting piece (41) discovers the opening (46) to allow the passage of the latch (41) through the opening (46).

12. Device according to one of claims 9 to 1 1, wherein the muting piece (45) comprises a solid portion (65) and an open portion (66) having an opening (67), and wherein, when muting member (45) is in the first position, the open portion (66) is aligned with the latch (41) to allow the latch to pass through the opening (67), and when the muting piece (45) ) is in the second position, the solid part (65) is aligned with the latch (41) to prevent rotation of the latch (41).

13. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inhibiting device (40) comprises a return member (32) adapted to bias the inhibition member (45) to the second position.

14. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator (2) comprises a rod (23) movable in translation relative to the first element (4), the movable rod being adapted to be solicited by the second element (5) to move the muting piece (45) to the first position.

15. Device according to claim 14, wherein the movable rod

(23) extends at least partially inside the first element (4).

Device according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a manual unlocking device (49) for rotating the locking portion (31) in order to move the locking portion (31) to the unlocked position without activating the drive member (29).

The device of claim 16, wherein the driver (29) comprises a rotor (34) and a stator (33), and the manual unlocking device (49) includes a first movable member (51). rotation relative to the stator (33), the first part (51) being clean, when driven in rotation in a first direction, to engage the rotor (34) to rotate the rotor (34) of moving the locking portion (31) to the unlocked position, and when rotated in a second direction, opposite the first direction, to be disengaged from the rotor (34).

18. Device according to claim 17, wherein the manual unlocking device comprises a second piece (50) fixed relative to the stator (33), and a third piece (52) mounted movable in translation relative to the first piece (51). ) and integral in rotation with the first piece (51), and wherein the third piece (52) comprises a pin (54) slidable in a slot (53) formed in the second piece (50) to guide the translation of the third piece (52) with respect to the first and second pieces (50, 51) and / or guiding the rotation of the second and third pieces (51, 52) relative to the first piece (50).

19. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first element (4) is the screw and the second element (5) is the nut.