Multiple-yoke main rotor assembly

US8985951B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Textron Innovations Inc. · US

Inventors

• Richard E. Rauber · Arlington, US
• Frank B. Stamps · Colleyville, US
• David A. Popelka · Colleyville, US
• Patrick R. Tisdale · Keller, US
• Tommie L. Wood · Arlington, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Dec 13, 2011
• Grant date: Mar 24, 2015
• Expiry date: Sep 22, 2033

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64C29/0033
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

The present application includes a main rotor assembly for an aircraft. The rotor assembly has a main rotor mast configured for rotation about a mast axis and two yokes pivotally connected to the mast for rotation therewith about the mast axis. Each yoke is independently pivotable relative to the mast about at least one flap axis that is generally perpendicular to the mast axis. In at least one embodiment, a torque splitter connects the yokes and allows for limited rotation of the yokes relative to each other about the mast axis. Each yoke is configured for the attachment of rotor blades extending generally radially relative to the mast axis.