United States Patent: (10) Patent No .: US 10,486,807 B2

US010486807B2
(12) United States Patent ( 10 ) Patent No.: US 10,486,807 B2

Dearman et al. (45 ) Date of Patent: Nov. 26 , 2019
(54 ) INBOARD BEARING ASSEMBLIES HAVING (58 ) Field of Classification Search
INDEPENDENT SHOES CPC B64C 27/35; B64C 27/54 ; B64C 27/51
See application file for complete search history .
(71) Applicant: Bell Helicopter Textron Inc., Fort
Worth , TX (US )
( 56 ) References Cited
(72) Inventors: Michael Dean Dearman , Weatherford , U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
TX (US ); Amarjit Olenchery
Kizhakkepat, Fort Worth , TX (US); 4,028,002 A * 6/1977 Finney B640 27/35
Tyler Wayne Baldwin , Keller , TX 416/134 A
(US ); Michael Christopher Burnett, 4,257,739 A * 3/1981 Covington B64C 27/35
Fort Worth , TX (US ) 416/134 A
4,430,045 A * 2/1984 Cresap B64C 27/001
(73 ) Assignee : Bell Textron Inc., Fort Worth , TX (US) 244 / 17.27
5,186,686 A 2/1993 Staples et al.
( * ) Notice : Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 5,316,442 A * 5/1994 Mouille B64C 27/35
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 416/134 A
U.S.C. 154(b ) by 83 days . (Continued )
(21) Appl. No.: 15 /990,623 Primary Examiner Brian M O'Hara
(22) Filed : May 26 , 2018
(74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Lawrence Youst PLLC
(65 ) Prior Publication Data (57 ) ABSTRACT
US 2019/0016456 A1 Jan. 17 , 2019
A proprotor system for a tiltrotor aircraft having a helicopter
Related U.S. Application Data flight mode and an airplane flight mode includes a yoke
having a plurality of blade arms each having an inboard
(63 ) Continuation - in -part of application No. 15/648,650 , pocket with a load transfer surface . Each of a plurality of
filed on Jul. 13, 2017 . bearing assemblies is disposed at least partially within one
of the inboard pockets. Each of a plurality of inboard beams
(51) Int. Cl. is disposed at least partially between a centrifugal force
B64C 27/35 (2006.01) bearing and a shear bearing of each bearing assembly and
B64C 29/00 ( 2006.01) has a proprotor blade coupled thereto . Each of a plurality of
B64C 27/12 ( 2006.01 ) independent shoes is coupled between one of the centrifugal
B64C 27/41 (2006.01 ) force bearings and the yoke . Each shoe has a load transfer
F16D 3/33 (2006.01) surface that has a contact relationship with the load transfer
F16D 3/42 ( 2006.01) surface of the respective inboard pocket forming a centrifu
(52 ) U.S. Cl. gal force load path therebetween .
CPC B64C 29/0033 (2013.01 ); B64C 27/12
( 2013.01 ); B64C 27/41 (2013.01 ); F16D 3/33
( 2013.01); F16D 3/42 ( 2013.01) 19 Claims, 19 Drawing Sheets
628a 618
626a -620
624a
628b -614 -600
-616 622
-616a
6160 624
-622b
624b
622c
616b
618a 622a
626b
604
604a
-612 602
606 608 -610

US 10,486,807 B2
Page 2
( 56 ) References Cited
U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
5,601,408 A 2/1997 Hunter et al.
5,620,305 A 4/1997 McArdle
6,007,298 A 12/1999 Karem
6,296,444 B1 10/2001 Schellhase et al.
6,641,365 B2 11/2003 Karem
8,226,355 B2 7/2012 Stamps et al.
8,231,346 B2 * 7/2012 Stamps F16F 1/40
416/134 A
9,090,344 B2 * 7/2015 Stucki B64C 27/48
9,126,680 B2 9/2015 Stamps et al.
9,254,915 B2 2/2016 Stamps
9,656,747 B2 * 5/2017 Shundo B64C 11/02
2013/0105637 A1 5/2013 Stamps et al.
2014/0248150 A1 9/2014 Sutton et al.
* cited by examiner
U.S. Patent Nov. 26 , 2019 Sheet 1 of 19 US 10,486,807 B2
20b
22b 10
-16
26
18
12
24b 14
22a 20a
24a
Fig .1A -26
26
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10 -16
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14 -24a
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Fig.1B
112
116
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126 132 134
130
Fig.2A
104 -102 -100
126 -108
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120
Fig.2B
110
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102
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104
Fig.20 126
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102a -102b
118
128
110 100
112 106
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114 -108
116
132
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130
CHOW
124 126
Fig.2D
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128
204
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206
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Fig.3A
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Fig.3B 212b
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Fig.30
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Fig.3D 208a
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210 -212a
206
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214b
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Fig.3E
212
206
210
208
210b -208g
210a 212e -208f
218a
218b -212e
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210d -208a
212f -208c
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Fig.4A
-212 208f 208

208g
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Fig.4C
Fig.4B
312
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Fig.5A
312
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Fig.5B
312 308f
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O 312h O
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Fig.5D
Fig.5C
-412 408f 408

408g
-412g
412i
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Fig.6D
Fig.6C
412 -406
202 204 420

408 202
408g.
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-408f
-412g
Fig.6A
412
406
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-408f
412g
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412h
-408h
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Fig.6B
516 502
514b
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506 514 504
516
518a
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5160
518b
510
520b
514c Fig .7A
502
514b
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-506 514 504
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516C
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518b
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510 516
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516 514
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5160 520b
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Fig.7C
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Fig.7D
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624 -62 b 62 0
602
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616a 6160 604a 612 -610
- 616 616b
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618
618a 626b
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628a
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606
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Fig.8A
620
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626a
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602
-616a 624
622b
-622e
-616b
616c
604a
622a
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618
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Fig.8B
620
-600
614
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624a
602 -622g-630 624
622b
616d
604a
622a
622c
624b -616
618
626b 618a
Fig.8C
708 706
702 714
718b 720
724a
704 700
718a
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730
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726b
718 716
Fig.9A
714
720
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704 -700
724b
722b
718c
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730
718 716 728
722a
724a Fig.9B
714 720
-700
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702 718b
726
704 -704a
-726a
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732
-7260
7180
718 -716
Fig.9C
702
722b -700
704
714
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708
706
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724a
730
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718
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Fig.9D
722a
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810
824a 814a
822a 812 816
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824b
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Fig. 10A
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824b 822b
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816
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818d -812
814
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Fig.10C
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Fig.10D
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-918e
918d
918b -9180
Fig.11B
US 10,486,807 B2
1 2
INBOARD BEARING ASSEMBLIES HAVING SUMMARY
INDEPENDENT SHOES
In a first aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a
CROSS -REFERENCE TO RELATED proprotor system for a tiltrotor aircraft having a helicopter
APPLICATIONS 5 flight mode and an airplane flight mode . The proprotor
system includes a yoke having a plurality of blade arms each
This is a continuation - in -part of co -pending application having an inboard pocket with a load transfer surface. Each
of a plurality of bearing assemblies is disposed at least
Ser. No. 15/648,650 filed Jul. 13, 2017, the entire contents partially
of which is hereby incorporated by reference . within one of the inboard pockets with each bearing
10 assembly including a centrifugal force bearing and a shear
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE bearing. Each of a plurality of inboard beams is disposed at
least partially between one of the centrifugal force bearings
The present disclosure relates, in general, to or and one of the shear bearings . Each of a plurality of
systems operable for use on tiltrotor aircraft having a proprotor blades is coupled to one of the inboard beams.
helicopter flight mode and an airplane flight mode and, in 15 Each of a plurality of independent shoes is coupled between
particular, to bearing assemblies having independent shoes one of the centrifugal force bearings and the yoke with each
that are disposed in inboard pockets of a yoke for use in shoe having a load transfer surface that has a contact
stiff -in -plane proprotor systems. relationship with the load transfer surface of the respective
inboard pocket forming a centrifugal force load path ther
BACKGROUND 20 ebetween .
In some embodiments, the load transfer surfaces of the
Tiltrotor aircraft typically include multiple propulsion shoes and the inboard pockets have matching profiles such
assemblies that are positioned near outboard ends of a fixed as matching arcuate profiles includingmatching circular arc
wing . Each propulsion assembly may include an engine and profiles or matching elliptical arc profiles . In certain
transmission that provide torque and rotational energy to a 25 embodiments, each shoe may have a bonded relationship
drive shaft that rotates a proprotor system including a hub with the yoke, a clamped relationship with the yoke out
assembly and a plurality of proprotor blades. Typically, at board of the respective inboard pocket or a combination
least a portion of each propulsion assembly is rotatable thereof. In one example , each shoe may include first and
relative to the fixed wing such that the proprotor blades have second clamp plates each having at least one shoe bolt
a generally horizontal plane of rotation providing vertical lift 30 opening, each blade arm may define at least one shoe bolt
for takeoff , hovering and landing, much like a conventional opening outboard of the inboard pocket and a plurality of
helicopter, and a generally vertical plane of rotation provid shoe bolts may pass through aligned shoe bolt openings of
ing forward thrust for cruising in forward flight with the respective clamp plates and blade arms to clamp the shoes
fixed wing providing lift, much like a conventional propeller to the yoke.
driven airplane . In addition , tiltrotor aircraft can be operated 35 In some embodiments , each shoe may have an inboard
in configurations between the helicopter flight mode and the mating surface, each centrifugal force bearing may have an
airplane flight mode,which may be referred to as conversion outboard mating surface and the couplings between shoes
flightmode. and centrifugal force bearings may be anti-rotation cou
Physical structures have natural frequencies of vibration plings. For example , the inboard mating surfaces of the
that can be excited by forces applied thereto as a result of 40 shoes and the outboard mating surfaces of the centrifugal
operating parameters and/or environmental conditions. force bearings may be generally planar mating surfaces,
These frequencies are determined , at least in part, by the generally conical mating surfaces or combinations thereof.
materials and geometrical dimensions of the structures. In Additionally , at least a portion of the mating surfaces of the
the case of tiltrotor aircraft , certain structures having critical shoes and the centrifugal force bearings may have a spaced
natural frequencies include the fuselage , the fixed wing and 45 apart relationship . In certain embodiments, the anti-rotation
various elements of the propulsion assemblies. One impor couplings may include radially extending non -cylindrical
tant operating parameter of a tiltrotor aircraft is the angular features such as radially extending multisided geometric
velocity or revolutions per minute (RPM ) of the proprotor prism features including radially extending four-sided geo
blades , which may generate excitation frequencies corre metric prism features. In some embodiments, the anti
sponding to 1/rev (1 per revolution ), 2/ rev, 3 /rev, etc. In 50 rotation couplings may include a plurality of pins extending
general, proprotor systems for tiltrotor aircraft should be between respective shoes and centrifugal force bearings
designed to achieve blade flap or out-of-plane frequencies such as a plurality of threaded pins .
and lead -lag or in -plane frequencies that are sufficiently In a second aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a
distant from these excitation frequencies. For example , tiltrotor aircraft having a helicopter flight mode and an
certain tiltrotor aircraft have stiff - in -plane proprotor systems 55 airplane flight mode. The tiltrotor aircraft includes a fuse
with the lead -lag frequency above 1.0 /rev, such as between lage , a wing extending from the fuselage and first and
1.4 /rev and 1.6 /rev . For each proprotor blade, such stiff - in second pylon assemblies coupled to thewing outboard of the
plane proprotor systems have utilized three independent fuselage . First and second proprotor systems are operably
shear bearings in series and a centrifugal force bearing associated respectively with the first and second pylon
positioned outboard of the yoke and within the proprotor 60 assemblies. Each of the proprotor system includes a yoke
blade . It has been found , however, that this design prevents having a plurality of blade arms each having an inboard
heat dissipation from the centrifugal force bearings during pocket with a load transfer surface. Each of a plurality of
operations. In addition , this design precludes visual inspec bearing assemblies is disposed at least partially within one
tion of the centrifugal force bearings without blade removal. ofthe inboard pockets with each bearing assembly including
Further, this design obstructs compact blade fold options 65 a centrifugal force bearing and a shear bearing. Each of a
that can reduce the overall tiltrotor aircraft footprint during plurality of inboard beams is disposed at least partially
storage . between one of the centrifugal force bearings and one of the
US 10,486,807 B2
3 4
shear bearings. Each of a plurality of proprotor blades is be appreciated that the present disclosure provides many
coupled to one of the inboard beams. Each of a plurality of applicable inventive concepts, which can be embodied in a
independent shoes is coupled between one of the centrifugal wide variety of specific contexts. The specific embodiments
force bearings and the yoke with each shoe having a load discussed herein are merely illustrative and do not delimit
transfer surface that has a contact relationship with the load 5 the scope of the present disclosure. In the interest of clarity,
transfer surface of the respective inboard pocket forming a not all features of an actual implementation may be
centrifugal force load path therebetween . described in the present disclosure. It will of course be
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS appreciated that in the development of any such actual
embodiment, numerous implementation -specific decisions
For a more complete understanding of the features and 10 asmust be made to achieve the developer's specific goals , such
compliance with system -related and business-related con
advantages of the present disclosure, reference is now made straints, which will vary from one implementation to
to the detailed description along with the accompanying
figures in which corresponding numerals in the different another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a devel
figures refer to corresponding parts and in which : opment effort might be complex and time-consuming but
FIGS. 1A - 1B are schematic illustrations of a tiltrotor 15 would be a routine undertaking for those ofordinary skill in
aircraft in an airplane flight mode and a helicopter flight the art having the benefit of this disclosure .
mode , respectively, in accordance with embodiments of the In the specification , reference may be made to the spatial
present disclosure ; relationships between various components and to the spatial
FIGS . 2A - 2D are various views of a proprotor system orientation of various aspects of components as the devices
having bearing assemblies disposed in inboard pockets of a 20 are depicted in the attached drawings. However, as will be
yoke in accordance with embodiments of the present dis recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete
closure ; reading of the present disclosure, the devices , members,
FIGS. 3A - 3D are various views of a bearing assembly apparatuses, and the like described herein may be positioned
disposed in an inboard pocket of a yoke for a proprotor in any desired orientation . Thus , the use of terms such as
system in ; accordance with embodiments of the present 25 “ above,” “ below ," " upper,” “ lower” or other like terms to
disclosure
FIG . 3E is an isometric view of a bearing assembly for a describe
or to
a spatial relationship between various components
describe the spatial orientation of aspects of such
proprotor system in accordance with embodiments of the components should be understood to describe a relative
present disclosure; relationship between the components or a spatial orientation
FIGS. 4A -4C are various viewsof a bearing assembly and of aspects of such components
component parts thereof for a proprotor system in accor 30 described , respectively , as the device
herein may be oriented in any desired direction .
dance with embodiments of the present disclosure ;
FIGS .5A - 5D are various views of a bearing assembly and As used herein , the term " coupled ” may include direct or
component parts thereof for a proprotor system in accor indirect coupling by any means, including moving and /or
dance with embodiments of the present disclosure ; non -moving mechanical connections .
FIGS. 6A -6D are various views of a bearing assembly and 35 Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B in the drawings, a tiltrotor
component parts thereof for a proprotor system in accor aircraft is schematically illustrated and generally designated
dance with embodiments of the present disclosure ; 10. Aircraft 10 includes a fuselage 12 , a wing mount
FIGS . 7A - 7D are various views of a bearing assembly assembly 14 that is rotatable relative to fuselage 12 and a tail
disposed in an inboard pocket of a yoke for a proprotor assembly 16 having control surfaces operable for horizontal
system in accordance with embodiments of the present 40 and/or vertical stabilization during forward flight. A wing 18
disclosure ; is supported by wing mount assembly 14 and rotates with
FIGS . 8A -8C are various views of a bearing assembly wing mount assembly 14 relative to fuselage 12 to enable
disposed in an inboard pocket of a yoke for a proprotor tiltrotor aircraft 10 to convert to a storage configuration .
system in accordance with embodiments of the present Together, fuselage 12 , tail assembly 16 and wing 18 as well
disclosure ; 45 as their various frames , longerons, stringers, bulkheads,
FIGS. 9A - 9D are various views of a bearing assembly spars, ribs, skins and the like may be considered to be the
disposed in an inboard pocket of a yoke for a proprotor airframe of tiltrotor aircraft 10 .
system in accordance with embodiments of the present Located proximate the outboard ends ofwing 18 are fixed
disclosure ; nacelles 20a , 206, each of which may house a drive system
FIGS . 10A - 10C are various views of a bearing assembly
disposed in an inboard pocket of a yoke for a proprotor 50 including an engine and a fixed portion of a transmission . A
pylon assembly 22a is rotatable relative to fixed nacelle 20a
system in accordance with embodiments of the present
disclosure ; and wing 18 between a generally horizontal orientation , as
FIG . 10D is an isometric view of a bearing cage of a best seen in FIG . 1A , a generally vertical orientation , as best
bearing assembly for a proprotor system in accordance with seen in FIG . 1B . Pylon assembly 22a may include a tilting
embodiments of the present disclosure ; 55 portion of the transmission and a proprotor system 24a that
FIG . 11A is a cross sectional view of a bearing assembly is rotatable responsive to torque and rotational energy pro
disposed in an inboard pocket of a yoke for a proprotor vided via the drive system . Likewise , a pylon assembly 22b
system in accordance with embodiments of the present is rotatable relative to fixed nacelle 20b and wing 18
disclosure ; and between a generally vertical orientation , as best seen in FIG .
FIG . 11B is an isometric view of a bearing assembly for 60 1A , a generally horizontal orientation , as best seen in FIG .
a proprotor system in accordance with embodiments of the 1B . Pylon assembly 22b may include a tilting portion of the
present disclosure . transmission and a proprotor system 24b that is rotatable
responsive to torque and rotational energy provided via the
DETAILED DESCRIPTION drive system . In the illustrated embodiment, proprotor sys
65 tems 24a , 24b each include four proprotor blades 26. It
While the making and using of various embodiments of should be understood by those having ordinary skill in the
the present disclosure are discussed in detail below , it should art, however, that proprotor assemblies 24a , 24b could
US 10,486,807 B2
5 6
alternatively have a different number of proprotor blades, designed to avoid the frequencies of 1/rev , 2 / rev, 3/rev, etc.
either less than or greater than four. In addition , it should be for both helicopter flight mode and airplane flight mode
understood that the position of pylon assemblies 22a , 22b , operations.
the angular velocity or revolutions per minute (RPM ) of the In the illustrated embodiment, each proprotor system 24a ,
proprotor systems 24a , 246, the pitch of proprotor blades 26 5 24b includes four proprotor blades 26 that are positioned
and the like are controlled by the pilot of tiltrotor aircraft 10 circumferentially about a hub assembly at ninety -degree
and /or the flight control system to selectively control the intervals . Proprotor blades 26 and the hub assembly are
direction , thrust and lift of tiltrotor aircraft 10 during flight. preferably designed to have sufficient stiffness to achieve a
FIG . 1A illustrates tiltrotor aircraft 10 in a forward flight first- in -plane frequency above 1.0 / rev. In some embodi
mode or airplane flight mode , in which proprotor systems 10 ments, the first in -plane frequency of proprotor blades 26
24a , 24b are positioned to rotate in a substantially vertical may preferably be in a range between about 1.2/ rev and
plane to provide a forward thrust while a lifting force is about 1.8 /rev and more preferably in a range between about
supplied by wing 18 such that tiltrotor aircraft 10 flies much 1.4 /rev and about 1.6 /rev. As another example, proprotor
like a conventional propeller driven aircraft . FIG . 1B illus blades 26 and the hub assembly may be designed to have
trates tiltrotor aircraft 10 in a vertical takeoff and landing 15 sufficient stiffness to achieve a first-in -plane frequency
(VTOL ) flight mode or helicopter flight mode , in which above 2.0 /rev . For example , the first in -plane frequency of
proprotor systems 24a , 24b are positioned to rotate in a proprotor blades 26 may be in a range between about 2.0 /rev
substantially horizontal plane to provide a vertical lift such and about 3.0 /rev . In such embodiments , the first in -plane
that tiltrotor aircraft 10 flies much like a conventional frequency of proprotor blades 26 may preferably be in a
helicopter. During operation , tiltrotor aircraft 10 may con- 20 range between about 2.2 /rev and about 2.8 /rev and more
vert from helicopter flight mode to airplane flight mode preferably in a range between about 2.4 /rev and about
following vertical takeoff and may convert back to helicop 2.6 /rev.
ter flight mode from airplane flight mode for hover and The desired proprotor blade stiffness and /or stiffness to
vertical landing. In addition , tiltrotor aircraft 10 can perform mass ratio of the present embodiments is achieved using , for
certain flight maneuvers with proprotor systems 24a , 24b 25 example, carbon -based materials for the structural compo
positioned between airplane flightmode and helicopter flight nents of proprotor blades 26 such as graphite -based mate
mode , which can be referred to as conversion flight mode . rials, graphene -based materials or other carbon allotropes
Each fixed nacelle 20a, 20b may house a drive system including carbon nanostructure-based materials such as
including an engine and transmission for supplying torque materials including single -walled and multi -walled carbon
and rotational energy to a respective proprotor system 24a , 30 nanotubes . In one example , the spar and /or skin of proprotor
24b . In such embodiments, the drive systems of each fixed blades 26 are preferably monolithic structures formed using
nacelle 20a , 20b may be coupled together via one or more a broad goods and /or layered tape construction process
drive shafts located in wing 18 such that either drive system having a manual or automated layup of a plurality of
can serve as a backup to the other drive system in the event composite broad goods material layers including carbon
of a failure . Alternatively or additionally, a drive system 35 fabrics , carbon tapes and combinations thereof, positioned
including an engine and transmission may be located in over one or more mandrels having simple geometric sur
fuselage 12 for providing torque and rotational energy to faces with smooth transitions. After curing and other pro
both proprotor systems 24a , 24b via one or more drive shafts cessing steps , the material layers form a high strength ,
located in wing 18. In tiltrotor aircraft having drive systems lightweight solid composite members. In this process, the
in both the nacelles and the fuselage , the fuselage mounted 40 material thicknesses of the components can be tailoring
drive system may serve as a backup in the event of failure spanwise and chordwise to the desired stiffness and/or
of either or both of the nacelle mounted drive systems. stiffness to mass ratio . The proprotor blade components may
In general, proprotor systems for tiltrotor aircraft should be composed of up to about 50 percent, about 60 percent,
be designed to achieve blade flap or out-of-plane frequencies about 70 percent, about 80 percent, about 90 percent or more
and lead - lag or in -plane frequencies that are sufficiently 45 of the carbon -based material or materials.
distant from the excitation frequencies generated by the Referring next to FIGS. 2A - 2D in the drawings, a pro
proprotor systems corresponding to 1/rev ( 1 per revolution ), protor system for tiltrotor aircraft is depicted and generally
2/rev , 3 /rev, etc. As an example , if a proprotor system has an designated 100. In the illustrated embodiment, proprotor
operating speed of 360 RPM , the corresponding 1/ rev exci system 100 includes a hub assembly 102 including a yoke
tation frequency is 6 Hertz (360 /60 = 6 Hz). Similarly, the 50 104 that is coupled to a mast 106 via a constant velocity joint
corresponding 2 / rev excitation frequency is 12 Hz and the assembly 108. Hub assembly 102 rotates with mast 106 ,
corresponding 3/rev excitation frequency is 18 Hz. It should which is coupled to a drive system including an engine and
be understood by those having ordinary skill in the art that transmission of the tiltrotor aircraft that provides torque and
a change in the operating speed of a proprotor system will rotational energy to proprotor system 100. Constant velocity
result in a proportional change in the excitation frequencies 55 joint assembly 108 provides a gimballing degree of freedom
generated by the proprotor system . For tiltrotor aircraft , for yoke 104 relative to mast 106 enabling yoke 104 to teeter
operating in airplane flight mode typically requires less in any direction relative to the rotational axis 110 of pro
thrust than operating in helicopter flight mode . One way to protor system 100. Accordingly , hub assembly 102 may be
reduce thrust as well as increase endurance , reduce noise referred to as a gimbaled hub . In the illustrated implemen
levels and reduce fuel consumption is to reduce the operat- 60 tation , constant velocity joint assembly 108 is positioned
ing speed of the proprotor systems. For example , in heli above the rotational plane of yoke 104 and is mounted on
copter flight mode , the tiltrotor aircraft may operate at 100 and/or coupled to an upper surface of yoke 104 using a
percent of design RPM , but in airplane flight mode , the plurality ofhub bolts , such as hub bolts 102a , 102b , that pass
tiltrotor aircraft may operate at a reduced percent of design through hub bolt openings of constant velocity joint assem
RPM such as between about 80 percent and about 90 percent 65 bly 108 and yoke 104, as best seen in FIG . 2C . As illustrated ,
of design RPM . Thus , to achieve desirable rotor dynamics, yoke 104 includes four blade arms each ofwhich holds and
the proprotor systems for tiltrotor aircraft should be supports a proprotor blade 112. Each proprotor blade 112
US 10,486,807 B2
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includes a spar 114 that extends spanwise toward the tip of system such as epoxies, polyimides,polyamides, bismaleim
proprotor blade 112. Spars 114 are preferably the main ides , polyesters, vinyl esters, phenolics, polyetheretherke
structural members of proprotor blades 112 designed to tones (PEEK ), polyetherketones (PEK ), polyphenylene sul
carry the primary centrifugal and bending loads ofproprotor fides (PPS ) and the like. After curing , yoke 202 may require
blades 112. Spars 114 may have a root-to -tip twist on the 5 a variety of finishing steps including material removal
order of about 30 degrees to about 40 degrees or other processes such as machining operations to shape the surface
suitable root- to - tip twist. of yoke 202 and to form inboard pockets 204 as well as other
Each spar 114 has a root section 116 that couples of each openings, such as hub bolt openings, in yoke 202.
proprotor blade 112 with yoke 104 via an outboard shear A bearing assembly 206 is disposed in each of the inboard
bearing 118 and an inboard bearing assembly 120. Each 10 pockets 204 of yoke 202 , for clarity of illustration , only one
shear bearing assembly 118 is coupled to an outboard end of such bearing assembly 206 is shown in FIGS. 3A -3E .
yoke 104 with a plurality of connecting members such as Bearing assembly 206 includes a centrifugal force bearing
bolts , pins or the like. Likewise , each bearing assembly 120 208 , a shear bearing 210 and an inboard beam 212. In the
is coupled to an inboard station of yoke 104 with a plurality illustrated embodiment, centrifugal force bearing 208
of connecting members such as bolts, including the hub 15 includes an inboard member 208a having a convex spherical
bolts, pins or the like. Each bearing assembly 120 includes outboard surface and an outboard member depicted as
a rotatably mounted inboard beam 122 having upper and integral shoe 208b having a concave spherical inboard
lower arms 122a , 122b . As illustrated , each spar 114 is surface . Disposed between inboard member 208a and out
coupled to a respective inboard beam 122 at upper and lower board member 208b is a bearing element 208c that includes
arms 122a , 122b with a plurality of connecting members 20 a series of spherical elastomeric layers separated by inelastic
such as bolts, pins or the like. In addition , each spar 114 is shims. The connections within bearing element 208c and
coupled to a respective shear bearing assembly 118 via a between bearing element 208c and inboard member 208a
suitable connection (not visible ). and outboard member 208b are permanent and may be made
Each proprotor blade 112 has a centrifugal force retention by vulcanizing the elastomeric material of bearing element
load path through bearing assembly 120 to yoke 104. In the 25 208c to the adjacent surfaces or by bonded , adhered or
illustrated embodiment, each spar 114 includes an integral otherwise secured the elastomeric material in a non -remov
pitch horn 124 on the leading edge of spar 114 that is able manner to these surfaces. The durometer and thickness
coupled to a leading edge pitch link 126 of a pitch control of the materials as well as the stiffness, softness and/ or
assembly 128 depicted as the rotating portion of a rise and spring rate of centrifugal force bearing 208 may be tailored
fall swash plate operable to collectively and cyclically 30 to achieve the desired operational modes based upon the
control the pitch of proprotor blades 112. In other embodi loads and motions expected in the particular application . In
ments, the pitch horns may be independent components operation , each centrifugal force bearing 208 is operable to
coupled to the spars, the pitch horns may be trailing edge provide a centrifugal force retention load path from a
pitch horns and /or the pitch links may be trailing edge pitch proprotor blade 112 to yoke 202. In the illustrated embodi
links. Each proprotor blade 112 has an independent pitch 35 ment, centrifugal force bearing 208 includes a lower clamp
change degree of freedom relative to hub assembly 102 plate 208d that is bolted , pinned or otherwise coupled to a
about a pitch change axis 130. The pitch change of each lower surface of outboard member 208b once centrifugal
proprotor blade 112 is controlled responsive to changes in force bearing 208 is disposed in an inboard pocket 204.
position of pitch links 126 and pitch control assembly 128 . Centrifugal force bearing 208 is coupled to yoke 202 out
Rotation of each proprotor blade 112 causes the respective 40 board of inboard pocket 204 using bolts 224 or other suitable
inboard beam 122 to rotate relative to yoke 104 about the technique .
respective pitch change axis 130. Each proprotor blade 112 In the illustrated embodiment, shear bearing 210 includes
has an independent tilting degree of freedom relative to hub a radially inwardly disposed journal bearing 210a and a
assembly 102 about a focal point 132 that is coincident with radially outwardly disposed spherical bearing 2106. Journal
pitch change axis 130. For example , each proprotor blade 45 bearing 210a includes a series of cylindrical elastomeric
112 is operable to tilt relative to hub assembly 102 with layers separated by inelastic shims. Spherical bearing 210b
lead -lag motion , as indicated by arrow 134 in FIG . 2A , and includes a series of spherical elastomeric layers separated by
with flapping motion, as indicated by arrow 136 in FIG . 2D . inelastic shims. The connections within journal bearing
Referring additionally to FIGS. 3A -3E in the drawings , 210a and spherical bearing 210b are permanent and may be
therein are depicted various views of a proprotor system 200 50 made by vulcanizing the elastomeric material directly on
of the present disclosure . Proprotor system 200 includes a adjacent surfaces or by bonded , adhered or otherwise
yoke 202 depicted as having three blade arms each including secured the elastomeric material in a non -removable manner
an inboard pocket 204. As discussed herein , a yoke of the to these surfaces. The durometer and thickness of the
present disclosure could have any number of blade arms materials as well as the stiffness, softness and/or spring rate
corresponding to the desired number of proprotor blades in 55 of journalbearing 210a and spherical bearing 210b may be
a particular implementation including yoke designs having tailored to achieve the desired operational modes based upon
at least three blade arms, at least four blade arms or other the loads and motions expected in the particular application .
suitable number of blade arms. Yoke 202 may be formed In other embodiments , shear bearing 210 could be a non
from compositematerials including numerous material plies elastomer bearing or could include a non elastomer journal
composed of continuous filaments, fibers and /or sheets . The 60 bearing and /or a non elastomer spherical incorporating, for
composite materials may include one or more of carbon , example , one or more metal bearings. In the illustrated
graphite, glass , basalt, aromatic polyamide materials or the embodiment, shear bearing 210 includes a metal bearing
like and any combination thereof. The material pliesmay be ring 214a that is preferably permanently coupled to spheri
in the form of fabrics such as woven fabrics, tape such as cal bearing 210b by vulcanizing, bonding , adhering or
unidirectional tape and the like. The plies may be joined 65 otherwise securing the elastomeric material of spherical
together with a resin such as a polymeric matrix including bearing 210b to the inner surface ofbearing ring 214a . In the
thermoplastic or thermosetting resin or any suitable resin illustrated embodiment, bearing ring 214a includes a pair of
US 10,486,807 B2
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oppositely disposed flanges 214c, 214d forming an upper Centrifugal force bearing 208 is positioned outboard of
clamp plate . Shear bearing 210 is coupled to yoke 202 using shear bearing 210 and provides a centrifugal force retention
hub bolts 216a , 216b thatpass through the hub bolt openings path between a proprotor blade and yoke 202. As the
in bearing ring 214a , yoke 202 and lower clamp plate 214b . proprotor blades engage in blade flap or out-of-plane move
As best seen in FIG . 3C , hub bolts 216a, 216b have been 5 ments and lead -lag or in -plane movements , spherical bear
foreshortened for convenience of illustration as hub bolts ing 210b enables inboard beam 212 to tilt relative to yoke
216a, 216b would also coupled the constant velocity joint to 202. In the illustrated embodiment, inboard beam 212 is
yoke 202 as discussed herein . In the illustrated embodiment, operable to tilt relative to a focal point 222 associated with
bushings 202a , 202b , such as metal bushings, are positioned the spherical elements of spherical bearing 210b , which is
within the hub bolt openings of yoke 202. Bushings 202a , 10 preferably coincident with pitch change axis 220. Thus , a
202b may be bonded or otherwise secured within the hub proprotor blade coupled to bearing assembly 206 has a
bolt openings of yoke 202 . tilting degree of freedom about focal point 222 .
In the illustrated embodiment, inboard beam 212 includes Use of proprotor systems having the inboard bearing
upper and lower arms 212a , 212b . Inboard beam 212 assemblies of the present disclosure reduces the bearing
receives centrifugal force bearing 208 in an opening 212C 15 count compared to conventional proprotor systems. The
such that centrifugal force bearing 208 is housed within inboard bearing assemblies of the present disclosure also
inboard beam 212. Centrifugal force bearing 208 includes an dissipate heat faster than conventional centrifugal force
anti-rotation feature depicted as a boss 208e extending bearings that are disposed outboard of the yoke and within
radially inwardly , relative to yoke 202, from inboard mem the proprotor blades. In addition , locating the bearing assem
ber 208a . Boss 208e is received within an anti -rotation 20 blies of the present disclosure in inboard stations enables
feature depicted as cavity 212d of inboard beam 212 that visual inspection of the bearing assemblies without blade
extends radially inwardly, relative to yoke 202, to couple removal. Further , the inboard positioning of the bearing
centrifugal force bearing 208 to inboard beam 212 and assemblies of the present disclosure allows for compact
prevent relative rotation therebetween . An inboard extension blade fold options that reduce the tiltrotor aircraft footprint
212e of inboard beam 212 is received in an opening 210c of 25 during storage .
shear bearing 210. In addition , an anti-rotation feature Referring to FIGS. 4A - 4C , additional features of bearing
depicted as a boss 212f of inboard extension 212e is received assembly 206 will be described . The coupling between
within an anti -rotation feature 210d of shear bearing 210 to centrifugal force bearing 208 and inboard beam 212 pref
couple shear bearing 210 to inboard beam 212 and prevent erably serves three important functions including providing
relative rotation therebetween . In the illustrated embodi- 30 a centrifugal force load path function , a lateral movement
ment, centrifugal force bearing 208 and shear bearing 210 constraint function and an anti-rotation function . During
are coupled together with a bolt 218a and washer 218b. rotary operations of an aircraft using a proprotor system of
As best seen in FIG . 3E , to install a bearing assembly 206 the present disc ure, the centrifugal force load generated
in an inboard pocket 204 of yoke 202, clamp plate 214b and by each proprotor blade is transferred to the yoke by a
lower clamp plate 208d of centrifugal force bearing 208 are 35 bearing assembly 206. Within each bearing assembly 206 ,
removed such that the remainder of bearing assembly 206 the centrifugal force load path includes mating surfaces
may be lowered into an inboard pocket 204. Once bearing 208f, 208g of centrifugal force bearing 208 and mating
assembly 206 is disposed in an inboard pocket 204 lower surfaces 212g, 212h of inboard beam 212. In the illustrated
clamp plate 208d may be coupled to outboard member 208 embodiment, mating surfaces 208f, 208g are generally pla
by bolting or other suitable technique. Outboard member 40 nar mating surfaces with a radial step therebetween . Like
2086 may now be coupled to yoke 202 by bolting or other wise , mating surfaces 212g , 212h are generally planar
suitable technique . In addition , clamp plates 214a , 214b are mating surfaces with a radial step therebetween . As illus
coupled together and clamp plates 214a , 214b are coupled to trated , mating surface 208f of centrifugal force bearing 208
yoke 202 with hub bolts 216a, 216b that also couple the has a contact relationship with corresponding mating surface
constant velocity joint assembly to yoke 202 (see for 45 212g of inboard beam 212. Similarly, mating surface 208g
example constant velocity joint assembly 108 of FIG . 2C ). of centrifugal force bearing 208 has a contact relationship
These connections secure bearing assembly 206 in inboard with corresponding mating surface 212h of inboard beam
pocket 204 of yoke 202. 212. In other embodiments, certain of the mating surfaces or
As discussed herein , a proprotor blade is coupled to upper portions thereof could have a spaced apart relationship with
and lower arms 212a , 212b of inboard beam 212 by bolting 50 a corresponding mating surface. Thus, during rotary opera
or other suitable technique . As the proprotor blades engage tions of an aircraft using a proprotor system of the present
in collective and/ or cyclic blade pitch operations , inboard disclosure , the centrifugal force load path includes mating
beam 212 must rotate therewith about pitch changes axis surfaces 208f, 208g of centrifugal force bearing 208 and
220. During these rotary operations, inboard beam 212 mating surfaces 212g, 212h of inboard beam 212 .
causes inboard member 208a of centrifugal force bearing 55 In addition to the centrifugal forces that are generally in
208 to rotate relative to outboard member 208b due to the the radially outward direction relative to yoke 202 , the
anti -rotation connection between inboard beam 212 and components of bearing assembly 206 also experience lateral
inboard member 208a as well as the fixed connection forces associated with , for example, lead -lag and /or flapping
between outboard member 208b and yoke 202. Also , during motions of a proprotor blade. Asused herein , the term lateral
these rotary operations, inboard beam 212 causes rotation 60 force includes forces that are generally normal to the radial
within journalbearing 210a and /or between journalbearing direction of the yoke and/or normal to pitch change axis 220 .
210a and spherical bearing 210b due to the anti -rotation Such lateral forces may tend to urge centrifugal force
connection between inboard beam 212 and shear bearing bearing 208 out of concentricity with inboard beam 212. In
210 as well as the fixed connection between shear bearing the illustrated embodiment, centrifugal force bearing 208
210 and yoke 202 created by clamp plates 214a, 2146. Thus , 65 includes a lateral movement constraint feature depicted as
a proprotor blade coupled to bearing assembly 206 has a boss 208e that extends radially inwardly. Boss 208e is
pitch change degree of freedom about pitch change axis 220 . operably associated with and received within a lateralmove
US 10,486,807 B2
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ment constraint feature depicted as cavity 212d of inboard depicted as cavity 312d of inboard beam 312 that extends
beam 212 that extends radially inwardly . As illustrated , boss radially inwardly . As illustrated , boss 308e and cavity 312d
208e and cavity 212d are each non -cylindrical features are each cylindrical features. Preferably , boss 308e and
depicted as multisided geometric prism features in the form cavity 312d have a close fitting relationship that prevents
of four- sided geometric prism features. Preferably, boss 5 and /or substantially prevents relative lateral movement
208e and cavity 212d have a close fitting relationship that between centrifugal force bearing 308 and inboard beam 312
prevents and /or substantially prevents relative lateral move during rotary operations .
ment between centrifugal force bearing 208 and inboard In addition to the centrifugal forces and lateral forces, the
beam 212 during rotary operations. components of bearing assembly 306 also experience tor
In addition to the centrifugal forces and lateral forces, the 10 sional forces associated with , for example , pitch change
components of bearing assembly 206 also experience tor operations of a proprotor blade. Such torsional forces may
sional forces associated with , for example , pitch change tend to urge centrifugal force bearing 308 to rotate relative
operations of a proprotor blade . Such torsional forces may to inboard beam 312. In the illustrated embodiment, cen
tend to urge centrifugal force bearing 208 to rotate relative trifugal force bearing 308 includes an anti-rotation feature
to inboard beam 212. In the illustrated embodiment, cen- 15 depicted as a plurality of sockets 308h that extend radially
trifugal force bearing 208 includes an anti- rotation feature outwardly . Sockets 308h correspond with an anti-rotation
depicted as boss 208e that extends radially inwardly. Boss feature depicted as sockets 312i of inboard beam 312 that
208e corresponds with and is received within an anti extend radially inwardly. As best seen in FIG .5A, a plurality
rotation feature depicted as cavity 212d of inboard beam 212 of pins 320 extend into corresponding sockets 308h of
that extends radially inwardly. As illustrated , boss 208e and 20 centrifugal force bearing 308 and sockets 312i of inboard
cavity 212d are each non - cylindrical features depicted as beam 312 to prevent and /or substantially prevent relative
multisided geometric prism features in the form of four rotation between centrifugal force bearing 308 and inboard
sided geometric prism features. Preferably , boss 208e and beam 312 during rotary operations. In the illustrated
cavity 212d have a close fitting relationship that prevents embodiment, the lateral movement constraint feature and the
and /or substantially prevents relative rotation between cen- 25 anti -rotation feature of centrifugal force bearing 308 are
trifugal force bearing 208 and inboard beam 212 during independent of one another. Even though centrifugal force
rotary operations . In the illustrated embodiment, the lateral bearing 308 and inboard beam 312 are depicted as having a
movement constraint feature and the anti-rotation feature of particular number of anti -rotation sockets 308h , 312i, in a
centrifugal force bearing 208 are integral to one another. particular arrangement, it should be understood by those
Referring to FIGS. 5A -5D , a bearing assembly for a 30 having ordinary skill in the art that the centrifugal force
proprotor system is generally designated 306. As stated bearings and inboard beams of the present disclosure could
herein , the coupling between centrifugal force bearing 308 have any number of anti -rotation sockets both greater than
and inboard beam 312 preferably serves three important or less than four that are arranged in any desired orientation
functions including providing a centrifugal force load path including having uniform or nonuniform circumferential
function , a lateral movement constraint function and an 35 orientations , uniform or non -uniform socket depths, uniform
anti-rotation function. During rotary operations of an aircraft or non -uniform socket diameters and/ or uniform or non
using a proprotor system of the present disclosure, the uniform distances from the pitch change axis .
centrifugal force load generated by each proprotor blade is Referring to FIGS. 6A -6D , a bearing assembly for a
transferred to the yoke by a bearing assembly 306. Within proprotor system is generally designated 406. As stated
each bearing assembly 306 , the centrifugal force load path 40 herein , the coupling between a centrifugal force bearing 408
includes mating surfaces 308f, 308g of centrifugal force and an inboard beam 412 preferably serves three important
bearing 308 and mating surfaces 312g , 312h of inboard functions including providing a centrifugal force load path
beam 312. In the illustrated embodiment, mating surfaces function, a lateral movement constraint function and an
308f, 308g are generally planar mating surfaces with a radial anti-rotation function . During rotary operations of an aircraft
step therebetween . Likewise , mating surfaces 312g, 312h 45 using a proprotor system of the present disclosure , the
are generally planar mating surfaces with a radial step centrifugal force load generated by each proprotor blade is
therebetween . As illustrated , mating surface 308f of cen transferred to the yoke by a bearing assembly 406. Within
trifugal force bearing 308 has a contact relationship with each bearing assembly 406 , the centrifugal force load path
corresponding mating surface 312g of inboard beam 312 . includes mating surfaces 408f, 408g of centrifugal force
Similarly , mating surface 308g of centrifugal force bearing 50 bearing 408 and mating surfaces 412g , 412h of inboard
308 has a contact relationship with corresponding mating beam 412. In the illustrated embodiment, mating surface
surface 312h of inboard beam 312. Thus, during rotary 408f is a generally conical mating surface and mating
operations of an aircraft using a proprotor system of the surface 408g is a generally planar mating surface . Likewise ,
present disclosure , the centrifugal force load path includes mating surface 412g is a generally conical mating surface
mating surfaces 308f, 308g of centrifugal force bearing 308 55 and mating surface 412h is a generally planar mating
and mating surfaces 312g, 312h of inboard beam 312 . surface. As illustrated , mating surface 408f of centrifugal
In addition to the centrifugal forces that are generally in force bearing 408 has a contact relationship with corre
the radially outward direction relative to yoke 202 , the sponding mating surface 412g of inboard beam 412. As best
components of bearing assembly 306 also experience lateral seen in FIG . 6A , mating surface 408g of centrifugal force
forces associated with , for example, lead - lag and/or flapping 60 bearing 408 has a spaced apart relationship with correspond
motions of a proprotor blade . Such lateral forces may tend ing mating surface 412h of inboard beam 412. Thus, during
to urge centrifugal force bearing 308 out of concentricity rotary operations of an aircraft using a proprotor system of
with inboard beam 312. In the illustrated embodiment, the present disclosure , the centrifugal force load path
centrifugal force bearing 308 includes a lateral movement includes mating surface 408f of centrifugal force bearing
constraint feature depicted as boss 308e that extends radially 65 408 and mating surface 412g of inboard beam 412 .
inwardly . Boss 308e is operably associated with and In addition to the centrifugal forces that are generally in
received within a lateral movement constraint feature the radially outward direction relative to yoke 202 , the
US 10,486,807 B2
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components of bearing assembly 406 also experience lateral 514a . In the illustrated embodiment, bearing ring 514a
forces associated with , for example , lead -lag and /or flapping includes a pair of oppositely disposed flanges 5145, 514c
motions of a proprotor blade. Such lateral forces may tend forming an upper clamp plate . Shear bearing 514 is selec
to urge centrifugal force bearing 408 out of concentricity tively coupled to yoke 502 using a latch assembly 516. In the
with inboard beam 412. In the illustrated embodiment, 5 illustrated embodiment, latch assembly 516 includes a lower
centrifugal force bearing 408 includes a lateral movement clamp plate 516a and a pair of cam latches 516b, 516C.
constraint feature depicted as mating surface 408f that Lower clamp plate 516a is coupled to cam latches 516b ,
extends radially inwardly . Mating surface 408f is operably 516c respectively by hub bolts 518a , 518b . As described
associated with and received within a lateral movement above , hub bolts 518a , 518b have been foreshortened for
constraint feature depicted as mating surface 412g of 10 convenience of illustration as hub bolts 518a, 518b would
inboard beam 412 that extends radially inwardly . As illus also coupled the constant velocity joint to yoke 502. It is
trated,mating surface 408f and mating surface 412g are each noted that one or more of the components of bearing
conical features that provide a self-aligning interface assembly 510 may need inspection , maintenance and/or
between centrifugal force bearing 408 and inboard beam 412 replacement on a periodic basis . The procedure for such
that prevents and /or substantially prevents relative lateral 15 operations may be complicated by the need to remove the
movement between centrifugal force bearing 408 and hub bolts and the other associated hub components , such as
inboard beam 412 during rotary operations. the constant velocity joint, from the yoke 502 to simply
In addition to the centrifugal forces and lateral forces, the inspection or replace a single bearing assembly 510. In the
components of bearing assembly 406 also experience tor present embodiment, however, bearing assemblies 510 have
sional forces associated with , for example , pitch change 20 improved access for installation , removal and inspections
operations of a proprotor blade. Such torsional forces may due to the operation of latch assemblies 516 .
tend to urge centrifugal force bearing 408 to rotate relative In the illustrated embodiment, latch assembly 516 has an
to inboard beam 412. In the illustrated embodiment, cen engaged position depicted in FIGS . 7A , 7C , 7D and a
trifugal force bearing 408 includes an anti- rotation feature disengaged position depicted in FIG . 7B .More specifically,
depicted as a plurality of sockets 408h that extend radially 25 cam latch 516b is rotatable relative to yoke 502 about hub
outwardly . Sockets 408h correspond with an anti -rotation bolt 518a between the engaged and disengaged positions , as
feature depicted as sockets 412i of inboard beam 412 that seen in the comparison between FIGS. 7A and 7B . Likewise ,
extend radially inwardly .Asbest seen in FIG . 6A , a plurality cam latch 516c is rotatable relative to yoke 502 about hub
of pins 420 extend into corresponding sockets 408h of bolt 518b between the engaged and disengaged positions ,
centrifugal force bearing 408 and sockets 412i of inboard 30 also seen in the comparison between FIGS. 7A and 7B . In
beam 412 to prevent and /or substantially prevent relative the engaged position , bearing bolts 520a , 520b may pass
rotation between centrifugal force bearing 408 and inboard through aligned bearing bolt openings of respective cam
beam 412 during rotary operations. In the illustrated latches 5166, 516c, respective flanges 5146 , 514c and lower
embodiment, the lateralmovement constraint feature and the clamp plate 516a to couple bearing assembly 510 to yoke
anti-rotation feature of centrifugal force bearing 408 are 35 502 with flanges 5145, 514c having a contact relationship
independent of one another. with an upper surface of yoke 504 and lower clamp plate
Referring next to FIGS. 7A -7D in the drawings , therein 516a having a contact relationship with a lower surface of
are depicted various views of a proprotor system 500 of the yoke 504 .
present disclosure . Proprotor system 500 includes a yoke To gain access to bearing assembly 510 , bearing bolts
502 depicted as having three blade arms each including an 40 520a, 520b may be removed from bearing assembly 510
inboard pocket 504 and a pair of hub bolt openings 506 each such that cam latches 516b , 516c may be rotated relative to
having a bushing 508 secured therein . A bearing assembly yoke 502 about hub bolts 518a, 518b from the engaged
510 is disposed in each of the inboard pockets 504 of yoke position of FIG . 7A to the disengaged position of FIG . 7B
502 , for clarity of illustration , only one such bearing assem enabling inspection , installation and removal of bearing
bly 510 is shown in FIGS. 7A - 7D . Bearing assembly 510 45 assembly 510 relative to inboard pocket 504 without
includes a centrifugal force bearing 512 , a shear bearing 514 removal of hub bolts 518a , 518b, thereby alleviating the
and an inboard beam 516. As best seen in FIG . 7C , cen complications associated therewith . Thus, in both the
trifugal force bearing 512 has is a bearing element 512a , an engaged and disengaged positions of latch assembly 516 ,
integral shoe 512b that includes an upper clamp plate 5120 hub bolts 518a , 518b remain in place passing through
and an independent lower clamp plate 512d . Preferably, the 50 aligned hub bolt openings of cam latches 516b , 516c, yoke
connection between bearing element 512a and integral shoe 502 and clamp plate 516a . In certain implementations, it
512b is permanent and may be made by vulcanizing the may be desirable to loosen hub bolts 518a , 518b when
elastomeric material of bearing element 512a to the adjacent operating of cam latches 516b , 516c between the engaged
surface of integral shoe 512b or by bonded , adhered or and disengaged positions.
otherwise secured the elastomeric material in a non -remov- 55 Referring next to FIGS. 8A -8C in the drawings , therein
able manner to integral shoe 512b . Lower clamp plate 512d are depicted various views of a proprotor system 600 of the
is independent of integral shoe 512b to enable installation present disclosure . Proprotor system 600 includes a yoke
and removal of bearing assembly 510 relative to inboard 602 depicted as having three blade arms each including an
pocket 504 of yoke 502. In the installed orientation , lower inboard pocket 604 having a load transfer surface 604a .
clamp plate 512d is coupled to upper clamp plate 512c by 60 Load transfer surface 604a has an arcuate profile such as a
one or more bolts 518 which also couple centrifugal force circular arc profile or an elliptical arc profile . In addition ,
bearing 512 to yoke 502 outboard of inboard pocket 504 . each blade arm includes a pair of hub bolt openings 606 each
In the illustrated embodiment, shear bearing 514 includes having a bushing 608 secured therein and a pair of shoe bolt
a metal bearing ring 514a that is preferably permanently openings 610 each having a bushing 612 secured therein . A
coupled to an elastomer element of shear bearing 514 by 65 bearing assembly 614 is disposed in each of the inboard
vulcanizing , bonding, adhering or otherwise securing the pockets 604 of yoke 602 , for clarity of illustration , only one
elastomeric material to the inner surface of bearing ring such bearing assembly 614 is shown in FIGS. 8A -8C .
US 10,486,807 B2
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Bearing assembly 614 includes a centrifugal force bearing with independent shoe 622. In the illustrated embodiment,
616 , a shear bearing 618 , an inboard beam 620 and an centrifugal force bearing 616 includes a lateral movement
independent shoe 622. In the illustrated embodiment, shear constraint feature depicted as boss 616c that extends radially
bearing 618 includes a metal bearing ring 618a that is outwardly . Boss 616c is operably associated with and
preferably permanently coupled to an elastomer element of 5 received within a lateral movement constraint feature
shear bearing 618 by vulcanizing , bonding , adhering or depicted as cavity 622f of independent shoe 622 that extends
otherwise securing the elastomeric material to the inner radially outwardly. As illustrated , boss 616c and cavity 622f
surface of bearing ring 618a . In the illustrated embodiment, are each non -cylindrical features depicted as multisided
bearing ring 618a is coupled to an upper clamp plate 624a geometric prism features in the form of four-sided geometric
and a lower clamp plate 624b using screws 626a , 626b. 10 prism features . Preferably , boss 616c and cavity 622f have a
Upper and lower clamp plates 624a , 624b are coupled to
yoke 602 by hub bolts 628a , 6286. As described above , hub prevents relative lateral that
close fitting relationship prevents and/or substantially
bolts 628a , 628b have been foreshortened for convenience force bearing 616 and independent shoebetween
movement centrifugal
622 during rotary
of illustration as hub bolts 628a , 628b would also coupled 15 operations.
the constant velocity joint to yoke 602.
As best seen in FIG . 8A , independent shoe 622 includes componentsIn addition to the centrifugal forces and lateral forces, the
a load transfer surface 622a , an upper clamp plate 622b and of bearing assembly 614 also experience tor
a lower clamp plate 622c. Load transfer surface 622a has an sional forces associated with , for example , pitch change
arcuate profile such as a circular arc profile or an elliptical operations of a proprotor blade . Such torsional forces may
arc profile . The arcuate profile of load transfer surface 622a 20 tend to urge centrifugal force bearing 616 to rotate relative
of independent shoe 622 matches the arcuate profile of load to independent shoe 622. In the illustrated embodiment,
transfer surface 604a of inboard pocket 604 to form a centrifugal force bearing 616 includes an anti -rotation fea
centrifugal force load path therebetween . Load transfer ture depicted as boss 616c that extends radially outwardly .
surface 622a of independent shoe 622 may be bonded , Boss 616c corresponds with and is received within an
adhered or otherwise secured to load transfer surface 604a 25 anti-rotation feature depicted as cavity 622f of independent
of inboard pocket 604. Alternatively or additionally , one or shoe 622 that extends radially outwardly . As illustrated , boss
more shoe bolts 624 may pass through aligned shoe bolt 616c and cavity 622f are each non - cylindrical features
openings of upper clamp plate 622b , yoke 602 and lower depicted as multisided geometric prism features in the form
clamp plate 622c to form a clamped relationship between of four- sided geometric prism features. Preferably, boss
independent shoe 622 and yoke 602 outboard of inboard 30 616c and cavity 622f have a close fitting relationship that
pocket 604. The bonded relationship and /or the clamped prevents and /or substantially prevents relative rotation
relationship between independent shoe 622 and yoke 602 between centrifugal force bearing 616 and independent shoe
prevents relative movement therebetween to maintain the 622 during rotary operations .
contact relationship and centrifugal force load path therebe An alternate configuration of the coupling between inde
tween . 35 pendent shoe 622 and centrifugal force bearing 616 is
The coupling between independent shoe 622 and centrifu depicted in FIG . 8C . In this configuration , the centrifugal
gal force bearing 616 preferably serves three important force load path includes generally planar mating surface
functions including providing a centrifugal force load path 616d of centrifugal force bearing 616 and generally planar
function , a lateral movement constraint function and an mating surface 622g of independent shoe 622. A plurality of
anti-rotation function.During rotary operations of an aircraft 40 pins depicted as four screws 630 (only two being visible in
using proprotor system 600, the centrifugal force load gen the drawing ) extend between independent shoe 622 and
erated by each proprotor blade is transferred to yoke 620 by centrifugal force bearing 616 to prevent and /or substantially
bearing assembly 614. Within each bearing assembly 614 , prevents relative lateral movement and relative rotation
the centrifugal force load path includes mating surfaces between centrifugal force bearing 616 and independent shoe
616a , 616b of centrifugal force bearing 616 and mating 45 622 .
surfaces 622d , 622e of independent shoe 622. In the illus Referring next to FIGS. 9A - 9D in the drawings, therein
trated embodiment, mating surface 616a is a generally are depicted various views of a proprotor system 700 of the
conical mating surface and mating surface 616b is a gener present disclosure . Proprotor system 700 includes a yoke
ally planar mating surface . Likewise , mating surface 622d is 702 depicted as having three blade arms each including an
a generally conical mating surface and mating surface 622e 50 inboard pocket 704 with an outboard surface 704a, a pair of
is a generally planar mating surface . As illustrated , mating hub bolt openings 706 each having a bushing 708 secured
surface 616a of centrifugal force bearing 616 has a contact therein and four shoe bolt openings 710 each having a
relationship with corresponding mating surface 622d of bushing 712 secured therein . A bearing assembly 714 is
independent shoe 622. As best seen in FIG . 8B , mating disposed in each of the inboard pockets 704 of yoke 702, for
surface 616b of centrifugal force bearing 616 has a spaced 55 clarity of illustration , only one such bearing assembly 714 is
apart relationship with corresponding mating surface 622e shown in FIGS. 9A -9D . Bearing assembly 714 includes a
of independent shoe 622. Thus, during rotary operations of centrifugal force bearing 716 , a shear bearing 718 and an
an aircraft using proprotor system 600 , the centrifugal force inboard beam 720. In the illustrated embodiment, shear
load path includes mating surface 616a of centrifugal force bearing 718 includes a metal bearing ring 718a that is
bearing 616 and mating surface 622d of independent shoe 60 preferably permanently coupled to an elastomer element of
622 . shear bearing 718 by vulcanizing , bonding , adhering or
In addition to the centrifugal forces that are generally in otherwise securing the elastomeric material to the inner
the radially outward direction relative to yoke 602 , the surface of bearing ring 718a . Bearing ring 718a includes an
components ofbearing assembly 614 also experience lateral upper clamp plate 718b that is coupled to a lower clamp
forces associated with , for example , lead -lag and/or flapping 65 plate 718c by bearing bolts 722a , 722b . Upper and lower
motions of a proprotor blade . Such lateral forces may tend clamp plates 718b , 718c are coupled to yoke 702 by hub
to urge centrifugal force bearing 616 out of concentricity bolts 724a, 724b . As described above, hub bolts 724a , 724b
US 10,486,807 B2
17 18
have been foreshortened for convenience of illustration as 824b have been foreshortened for convenience of illustration
hub bolts 724a , 724b would also coupled the constant as hub bolts 824a , 824b would also coupled the constant
velocity joint to yoke 702. velocity joint to yoke 802. Importantly, an outboard surface
Centrifugal force bearing 716 has an integral shoe 726 818e of bearing retainer 818c has a space apart relationship
having an outboard surface 726a and an upper clamp plate 5 with an outboard surface 804a of inboard pocket 804 when
726b . An independent lower clamp plate 726c is coupled to upper and lower clamp plate 818a, 818d have the clamped
integral shoe 726 by bolts 728 or other suitable connectors . relationship with yoke 802. The space apart relationship
In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of shoe bolts 730 prevents centrifugal force load transfer between outboard
pass through aligned shoe bolt openings of upper clamp surface 818e of bearing retainer 818c and outboard surface
plate 726b , yoke 702 and lower clamp plate 726c to form a 10 804a of inboard pocket 804. Instead , hub bolts 824a , 824b
clamped relationship between integral shoe 726 and yoke provide centrifugal force load paths between bearing assem
702 outboard of inboard pocket 704 wherein upper clamp bly 810 and yoke 802 .
plate 726b may have a contact relationship with an upper Referring next to FIGS. 11A -11B in the drawings , therein
surface of yoke 702 and lower clamp plate 726c may have is depicted various a proprotor system 900 of the present
a contact relationship with a lower surface of yoke 702. 15 disclosure. Proprotor system 900 includes a yoke 902
Importantly, shoe bolt openings 710 are positioned and sized depicted as having an inboard pocket 904 and a pair of hub
such that outboard surface 726a of integral shoe 726 and bolt openings (not visible) inboard of inboard pocket 904
outboard surface 704a of inboard pocket 704 have a space each having a bushing secured therein . A bearing assembly
apart relationship , as indicated by arrows 732 , when upper 910 is disposed in inboard pocket 904 of yoke 902. Bearing
and lower clamp plate 726b , 726c have the clamped rela- 20 assembly 910 includes a centrifugal force bearing 912 , a
tionship with yoke 702. The space apart relationship pre shear bearing 914 , an inboard beam 916 and a bearing cage
vents centrifugal force load transfer between outboard sur 918. In the illustrated embodiment, inboard beam 916
face 726a of integral shoe 726 and outboard surface 704a of includes a cavity 916a that is preferably permanently
inboard pocket 704. Instead, shoe bolts 730 provide cen coupled to an elastomer element of shear bearing 914 by
trifugal force load paths between bearing assembly 714 and 25 vulcanizing , bonding, adhering or otherwise securing the
yoke 702. Even though a particular number ofshoe bolts 730 elastomeric material to the inner surface of cavity 916a.
have been depicted and described as maintaining the space In the illustrated embodiment, bearing cage 918 includes
apart relationship between outboard surface 726a of integral upper clamp plate 918a, spindle 918b, bearing retainer 918c
shoe 726 and outboard surface 704a of inboard pocket 704 and lower clamp plate 918d. Bearing retainer 918c has an
and as providing the centrifugal force load paths between 30 anti-rotation coupling with centrifugal force bearing 912. In
bearing assembly 714 and yoke 702, it should be understood the illustrated embodiment, screws 920 extend between
by those having ordinary skill in the art that the number of bearing retainer 918c and an outboard metal housing 912a of
shoe bolts could be either less than or greater than four centrifugal force bearing 912 prevent relative rotation and
including two shoe bolts , three shoe bolts , five shoe bolts or lateralmovements therebetween . In the illustrated embodi
more . 35 ment, spindle 918b passes through and is operable to allow
Referring next to FIGS. 10A - 10D in the drawings ,therein relative rotation thereabout by centrifugal force bearing 912
are depicted various views of a proprotor system 800 of the and shear bearing 914.Upper clamp plate 918a and a lower
present disclosure . Proprotor system 800 includes a yoke clamp plate 918d are coupled together by bearing bolts
802 depicted as having three blade arms each including an 922a, 922b . Upper and lower clamp plates 918a , 918b are
inboard pocket 804 and a pair of hub bolt openings 806 40 coupled to yoke 902 by hub bolts 924a , 924b . As described
inboard of inboard pocket 804 each having a bushing 808 above , hub bolts 924a , 924b have been foreshortened for
secured therein . A bearing assembly 810 is disposed in each convenience of illustration as hub bolts 924a , 924b would
of the inboard pockets 804 of yoke 802 , for clarity of also coupled the constant velocity joint to yoke 902. Impor
illustration , only one such bearing assembly 810 is shown in tantly , an outboard surface 918e ofbearing retainer 918c has
FIGS. 10A - 10C . Bearing assembly 810 includes a centrifu- 45 a space apart relationship with an outboard surface 904a of
gal force bearing 812 , a shear bearing 814 , an inboard beam inboard pocket 904 when upper and lower clamp plate 918a ,
816 and a bearing cage 818. In the illustrated embodiment, 918b have the clamped relationship with yoke 902. The
shear bearing 814 includes an integralbearing ring 814a that space apart relationship prevents centrifugal force load
is preferably permanently coupled to an elastomer element transfer between outboard surface 918e of bearing retainer
of shear bearing 814 by vulcanizing , bonding , adhering or 50 918c and outboard surface 904a of inboard pocket 904 .
otherwise securing the elastomeric material to the inner Instead , hub bolts 924a , 924b provide centrifugal force load
surface of integral bearing ring 814a. paths between bearing assembly 910 and yoke 902 .
In the illustrated embodiment, bearing cage 818 includes The foregoing description of embodiments of the disclo
upper clamp plate 818a , bearing ring 818b , bearing retainer sure has been presented for purposes of illustration and
818c and lower clamp plate 818d . Integral bearing ring 814a 55 description . It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the
of shear bearing 814 is coupled to bearing ring 818b of disclosure to the precise form disclosed , and modifications
bearing cage 818 by a pair of bolts 820a, 8206. An inboard and variations are possible in light of the above teachings or
surface of bearing retainer 818c is preferably permanently may be acquired from practice of the disclosure. The
coupled to an elastomer bearing element 812a of centrifugal embodiments were chosen and described in order to explain
force bearing 812 by vulcanizing, bonding , adhering or 60 the principals of the disclosure and its practical application
otherwise securing the elastomeric material to bearing to enable one skilled in the art to utilize the disclosure in
retainer 818c . In the illustrated embodiment, centrifugal various embodiments and with various modifications as are
force bearing 812 is disposed within bearing retainer 8180 . suited to the particular use contemplated . Other substitu
Upper clamp plate 818a and a lower clamp plate 818d are tions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in
coupled together by bearing bolts 822a , 822b . Upper and 65 the design , operating conditions and arrangement of the
lower clamp plates 818a , 818d are coupled to yoke 802 by embodiments without departing from the scope of the pres
hub bolts 824a , 824b . As described above , hub bolts 824a , ent disclosure . Such modifications and combinations of the
US 10,486,807 B2
19 20
illustrative embodiments as well as other embodiments will 11. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the
be apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the inboard mating surface of the shoe and the outboard mating
description . It is, therefore, intended that the appended surface of the centrifugal force bearing further comprise
claims encompass any such modifications or embodiments . generally conical mating surfaces.
5 12. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the
What is claimed is : inboard mating surface of the shoe and the outboard mating
1. A proprotor system for a tiltrotor aircraft having a surface of the centrifugal force bearing further comprise
helicopter flight mode and an airplane flight mode, the generally planar mating surface sections and generally coni
proprotor system comprising: cal mating surface sections.
a yoke having a plurality of blade arms including a first 10 13. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein at
blade arm having an inboard pocket with a load transfer least a portion of the mating surfaces of the shoe and the
surface ; centrifugal force bearing have a spaced apart relationship .
a bearing assembly disposed at least partially within the 14. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the
inboard pocket, the bearing assembly including a cen anti-rotation coupling further comprises a radially extending
trifugal force bearing having an outboard mating sur 15
non -cylindrical feature .
face and a shear bearing; 15. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the
anti
an inboard beam disposed at least partially between the multisided -rotation coupling further comprises a radially extending
centrifugal force bearing and the shear bearing; geometric prism feature.
a proprotor blade coupled to the inboard beam ; and 16. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the
an force
independent shoe coupled between the centrifugal 20 anti
four--rotation
sided coupling
geometric furtherfeature
prism comprises
. a radially extending
bearing and the yoke, the shoe having an inboard
mating surface that contacts the outboard mating sur anti17.-rotationThe proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the
coupling further comprises a plurality of pins
face of the centrifugal force bearing forming an anti extending between the shoe and the centrifugal force bear
rotation coupling therebetween , the shoe having a load
transfer surface that has a contact relationship with the 25 ing18.
load transfer surface of the inboard pocket forming a
.
The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the
centrifugal force load path therebetween . anti-rotation coupling further comprises a plurality of
2. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the threaded pins extending between the shoe and the centrifu
load transfer surfaces of the shoe and the inboard pocket gal force bearing .
have matching profiles. 30
19. A tiltrotor aircraft having a helicopter flight mode and
3. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the an airplane flight mode, the tiltrotor aircraft comprising :
load transfer surfaces of the shoe and the inboard pocket a fuselage;
have matching arcuate profiles . a wing extending from the fuselage ;
4. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the first and second pylon assemblies coupled to the wing
load transfer surfaces of the shoe and the inboard pocket 35 outboard of the fuselage; and
have matching circular arc profiles. first and second proprotor systems operably associated
5. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the respectively with the first and second pylon assemblies,
load transfer surfaces of the shoe and the inboard pocket each proprotor system including :
have matching elliptical arc profiles . a yoke having a plurality of blade arms including a first
6. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the 40 blade arm having an inboard pocket with a load transfer
shoe has a bonded relationship with the yoke. surface ;
7. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the a bearing assembly disposed at least partially within the
shoe has a clamped relationship with the yoke outboard of inboard pocket, the bearing assembly including a cen
the inboard pocket. trifugal force bearing having an outboard mating sur
8. The proprotor system as recited in claim 7 wherein the 45 face and a shear bearing;
shoe further comprises first and second clamp plates each an inboard beam disposed at least partially between the
having at least one shoe bolt opening ,wherein the first blade centrifugal force bearing and the shear bearing ;
arm defines at least one shoe bolt opening outboard of the a proprotor blade coupled to the inboard beam ; and
inboard pocket and further comprising at least one shoe bolt an independent shoe coupled between the centrifugal
passing through aligned shoe bolt openings of the clamp 50 force bearing and the yoke , the shoe having an inboard
plates and the first blade arm to clamp the shoe to the yoke . mating surface that contacts the outboard mating sur
9. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the face of the centrifugal force bearing forming an anti
shoe has a bonded and clamped relationship with the yoke . rotation coupling therebetween , the shoe having a load
10. The proprotor system as recited in claim 1 wherein the transfer surface that has a contact relationship with the
inboard mating surface of the shoe and the outboard mating 55 load transfer surface of the inboard pocket forming a
surface of the centrifugal force bearing further comprise centrifugal force load path therebetween .
generally planar mating surfaces.

United States Patent: (10) Patent No .: US 10,486,807 B2

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United States Patent: (10) Patent No .: US 10,486,807 B2

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US010486807B2

(12) United States Patent ( 10 ) Patent No.: US 10,486,807 B2

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