Dynamic axial preloading with flexure plate
US12043371B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 14, 2023 |
| Grant date | Jul 23, 2024 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 14, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16C2380/28
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system for an unmanned aerial vehicle can include an altitude control system, which further includes a compressor assembly, a valve assembly, and an electronics assembly. The compressor assembly may include a driveshaft and a bearing assembly configured to rotate the driveshaft. The driveshaft may be formed from a first material and a compressor housing may be formed from a second material. The first and second materials may have different rates of thermal expansion. A dynamic preloading mechanism, such as a flexible plate, may be provided within the compressor assembly to exert a preloading force on the bearing assembly. Throughout the duration of the flight of the unmanned aerial vehicle, the preloading mechanism can continually compensate for differences in rates of thermal expansion between the first and second materials throughout.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.