Load transfer in a powered aircraft drive wheel
US9789957B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 31, 2014 |
| Grant date | Oct 17, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 20, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49716
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An efficient system and method are provided wherein aircraft may be retrofitted with non-engine drive means controllable to power landing gear wheels to move the aircraft autonomously during ground movement without engines or tow vehicles so that existing landing gear structures are employed to achieve force distribution and load transfer. Non-engine drive means capable of powering a landing gear wheel to move the aircraft during taxi are integrated into existing landing gear designs so that excess drive forces are transferred and distributed through previously evaluated and certificated landing gear structures, including tow fittings, determined to be capable of handling such forces, which eliminates changes to the landing gear and facilitates retrofit and certification. Engines-off taxi technology can be rapidly designed and developed to be retrofitted on existing aircraft nose and/or main landing gear and then efficiently certificated.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.