Rotorcraft engine and rotor speed synchronization
US7866598B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 6, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jan 11, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 6, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/19242
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Systems and methods are provided in which an electrical control system independently effects acceleration of both driven and driving elements of a clutch to engage each other. In preferred embodiments the clutch is not a friction clutch, but a dog clutch, and forms part of a drive drain of a rotorcraft. A second clutch can be used, along with a mechanical interlock to prevent simultaneous engagement of the clutches. Speeds of the driven and driving elements can be sensed, and altered using at least one of a rotor, a brake, a generator, an electric motor, and a combustion motor. In rotorcraft embodiments, the gearbox can have a neutral condition in which no power is transmitted from the engine to the rotor
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.