Design and development of jam tolerant geared rotary actuators (GRA) for aerospace application
Feasibility cum RFI response for DRDO’s TDF projects
A Geared Rotary Actuator (GRA) is a crucial mechanical component used primarily in aerospace applications to provide controlled motion to secondary flight control surfaces. The actuator’s main function is to reduce speed and amplify torque from the input shaft to the actuator output through an epicyclic gear train.
The Ajam-tolerant GRA is designed to ensure that, even in the event of an internal failure, such as gear tooth breakage, it allows continued operation by permitting the input shaft to drive the actuator.
This capability ensures reliability and maintains system performance even under failure conditions, enhancing the safety of aerospace systems.
Functional and Operational Requirements
The newly developed thrusters should adhere to the following specifications:
A.) Input Torque: 59 Nm at 2600 RPM
B.) Output Torque (Max): 6000 Nm at 24 RPM
C.) Overall Diameter: 130 mm (approx.)
D.) Overall Length: 225 mm
E.) Material: AISI 9310 or equivalent (aerospace-grade gear material)
F.) Storage Temperature: -54°C to 85°C
G.) Operational Temperature: -40°C to 73°C
H.) Core Hardness of Material: As per relevant standard
I.) Surface Hardness: As per relevant standard
J.) Jam Tolerant: Input shaft should provide torque and motion to other actuators in case of failure of any actuators connected in series
K.) Design Load for Drive Shaft (Torque Tubes): 210 Nm at 2600 RPM
Testing and Certification Requirements
The testing and certification for the design and development of jam-tolerant geared rotary actuators (GRA) for aerospace applications will include performance, reliability, and failure tolerance testing.
Certification is required from DGQA, DGCA and NABL.
Link to know more and apply: https://drdo.gov.in/drdo/feasibility-cum-rfi-repsonse-tdf-projects