Blade pitch change mechanism
US5452988A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 28, 1994 |
| Grant date | Sep 26, 1995 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 28, 2014 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T50/60
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A lightweight and compact apparatus is provided for altering and controlling the pitch of a plurality of rotating blades during rotation using a mechanical clutch and gear arrangement driven by a rotational speed differential between the blade drive shaft and the blades. A first set of clutches and gears controls the direction of rotational power to the pitch change mechanism and is disengaged from rotation when desired blade pitch is established. A second set of clutches and gears controls the speed of rotational power applied to the pitch change mechanism. This pitch change mechanism includes a failsafe capability against pitch change through disengagement of the directional clutches except when needed, and an inherent rotational lock resulting from the rate change clutches' bias to simultaneous engagement. Variation of that speed of rotational power permits coarse and fine pitch adjustments at variable rates.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.