/Damping Unit As A Secondary Load Path For A Movable Element With Actuator
Abstract

Embodiments provide a damping unit coupled to a moveable element. An actuator configured to drive the moveable element provides a primary load path, while the damping unit provides a secondary load path that slows uncontrolled motion of the moveable element in the event of failure of the primary load path. To test the working condition of the damping unit, a load on the actuator can be measured when the actuator drives the moveable element. If the load is greater than a predetermined threshold, it can be determined that the damping unit is providing a damping force against the actuator, and therefore the damping unit is operational.

Full Text

What is claimed is:

Embodiments provide a damping unit coupled to a moveable element. An actuator configured to drive the moveable element provides a primary load path, while the damping unit provides a secondary load path that slows uncontrolled motion of the moveable element in the event of failure of the primary load path. To test the working condition of the damping unit, a load on the actuator can be measured when the actuator drives the moveable element. If the load is greater than a predetermined threshold, it can be determined that the damping unit is providing a damping force against the actuator, and therefore the damping unit is operational.
Timeline
Filed
06/01/2026
Published
09/24/2026
Granted
Not Available
IPC Codes(1)
F16F 15/02:Suppression of vibrations of non-rotating, e.g. reciprocating, systems; Suppression of vibrations of rotating systems by use of members not moving with the rotating system (layered products B32B; suppression of vibration in ships B63)