United Technologies Corporation

Joseph J Czapski, Jr

Steven D Roberts

Paul R Senofonte

David C Pimenta

Chung-Han Liou

Alex J Simpson

Hannes A Alholm

Bessem Jlidi

Tracks (), fastened to static structure of an aircraft engine nozzle, guide sliders () journaled in struts () fastened to a flap () of the nozzle. Each slider and attached journal axle or bolt () is formed of cobalt, and each track slider surface () and journal bushings () are formed of a nickel alloy to reduce wear from rubbing. Track slides () are mounted to the static structure of the nozzle by blind bolts () having a tool recess () at its threaded tip to prevent the bolt () from turning as a nut is secured. Each slider has limited rotation due to a pin (), thereon engaging a slot in a tab () of the bushing () to assist in inserting the slider () into the beveled ends of the tracks (), when mounting or replacing a flap.

Sliding nozzle flap assembly

A drive link assembly includes a case having a spherically formed inner ring. A clevis is affixed to a surface of the case such that is disposed horizontally between a first end and a second end of the clevis. A spacer having a spherical inset portion is positioned on the surface horizontally between the clevis and the spherically formed inner ring, such that the spherical inset portion is aligned with the spherically formed inner ring. A spherical bearing is seated within the spherically formed inner ring. A rod is affixed to an outer surface of the spherical bearing.

Enhanced durability drive link for high load misalignment

Growing community of inventors

New Britain, CT, United States of America

Joseph J Czapski, Jr