THOUTLULU US009988143B2

(12) United States Patent ( 10) Patent No.: US 9,988, 143 B2

Allwein et al. (45) Date of Patent : Jun. 5 , 2018
(54 ) LANDING GEAR DEPLOYMENT SYSTEMS (56 ) References Cited
AND METHODS
U .S . PATENT DOCUMENTS
(71)
@ Applicant: General Atomics Aeronautical 2 ,476 ,376 A 7 /1949 Laraque
Systems, Inc ., Poway, CA (US ) 2 , 758 , 807 A * 8 / 1956 Ryan ............ . B64C 25 / 30
244 / 1 R
(72 ) Inventors: Michael Allwein , San Diego , CA (US );
@
(Continued )
Joseph Moore, Ramona , CA (US );
Aron Howard Daria , San Diego , CA FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
(US )
GB 1159065 7 / 1969
(73 ) Assignee : General Atomics Aeronautical
@ WO 2013184656 12 / 2013
Systems, Inc ., Poway, CA (US)
( * ) Notice: Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this OTHER PUBLICATIONS
patent is extended or adjusted under 35 EPO ; App . No. 15153618 .2 ; Extended European Search Report
U .S .C . 154 (b ) by 438 days . dated Jun . 25, 2015 .
( 21) Appl. No.: 14 /614 ,330 Primary Examiner — Brian M O 'Hara
Assistant Examiner — Keith L Dixon
(22 ) Filed : Feb . 4 , 2015 (74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Fitch , Even , Tabin &
Flannery LLP
(65) Prior Publication Data
US 2015 /0291278 A1 Oct. 15 , 2015 (57) ABSTRACT
Some embodiments provide apparatuses configured to
Related U .S . Application Data deploy a landing gear of an aircraft, comprising : a landing
(60 ) Provisional application No .61/ 935 ,765, filed on Feb . gear coupler configured to couple with the landing gear; a
4 , 2014 . release link configured to cooperate the landing gear coupler
with a drive shaft that is configured to drive the landing gear
(51) B64C
Int. Ci25. /30 between a stowed position and a deployed position ; an
( 2006 .01) override driver cooperated with the landing gear coupler ;
B64C 25/20 ( 2006 .01) wherein the release link is configured to releasably maintain
(Continued ) a relative position of landing gear coupler relative to the
(52) U .S . CI. drive shaft, and the release link is configured to disengage a
coupling between the drive shaft and the landing gear
??? . ............. B64C 25 /20 ( 2013 .01); B64C 25 /24 coupler such that the landing gear coupler is configured to
( 2013 .01 ); B64C 25 /30 ( 2013 .01); B64C 25 / 34 move independent of the drive shaft; and wherein the
(2013 .01) override driver is configured to drive the landing gear
(58 ) Field of Classification Search coupler to the deployed position .
CPC ... B64C 25 /30 ; F16H 2015 /2071
(Continued ) 11 Claims, 14 Drawing Sheets
610 724 610
2000 240
612 622 30 it 612 614 720 722 630 316

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 US 9,988 , 143 B2
Page 2

(51) Int. CI.

B64C 25 / 24 ( 2006 .01)
B64C 25 /34 (2006 . 01)
(58 ) Field of Classification Search
USPC .... .. . .. .. . ..... 244 /100 R , 102 R
See application file for complete search history.
( 56 ) References Cited
U .S . PATENT DOCUMENTS
4 ,876 ,906 A 10 / 1989 Jones
6 ,311,927 B1 * 11/2001 Elving .................... B64C 25 /22
244/ 100 R
8 , 123 ,161 B1 * 2/ 2012 Collins .............. B64C 25 /26
244 /102 R
9 , 447 ,855 B2 * 9 / 2016 Mochizuki .......... F16H 25/ 2021
2007/0144846 A16 / 2007 Bucheton
2010 /0012779 A1 * 1/ 2010 Collins ..... .... ..... ...... B64C 25 / 12
244 / 102 R
2016 /0025199 A1 * 1/2016 Boone ................. F16H 25 / 2204
74 /89 .38
2016 /0195115 Al * 7/2016 Fenn ..... ......... B64C 2592 //8230
* cited by examiner
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 US 9 , 988, 143 B2
LANDING GEAR DEPLOYMENT SYSTEMS Further, some embodiments provide methods of deploy
AND METHODS ing landing gear, comprising : activating a release link dis
engaging a coupling between a drive shaft and a landing gear
This application claims the benefit of U .S . Provisional coupler such that the landing gear coupler is configured to
Application No. 61/935 ,765 , filed Feb . 4 , 2014 , entitled 5 move at least in a direction toward a deployed position
LANDING GEAR DEPLOYMENT SYSTEMS AND independent of the drive shaft , wherein the release link is
METHODS, for Allwein et al., which is incorporated in its configured , when engaged , to releasably maintain a relative
entirety herein by reference . position of the landing gear coupler relative to the drive shaft
BACKGROUND 10 such that a drive force from the drive shaft is transferred ,
during normal intended operation of an electro -mechanical
primary landing gear drive system , to the landing gear to
1. Field of the Invention effect movement of the landing gear between a stowed
The present invention relates generally to aircrafts, and position and the deployed position ; and moving the landing
more specifically to aircraft landing gear. gear coupler, independent of the drive shaft, forcing the
2 . Discussion of the Related Art landing gear to transition to the deployed position when the
The use of aircrafts continues to increase as they are used release link disengages the coupling between the landing
for ever more diverse operations. Landing gear is critical to
an aircraft. Many aircraft have landing gear that retract after gear coupler and the drive
takeoff . This can significantly reduce drag , which in turn
allows for greater speeds and/or greatly increases the time 20 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
the aircraft can remain aloft.
In some instances, however, the landing gear does not The above and other aspects, features and advantages of
deploy or does not fully deploy . The failure of the landing several embodiments of the present invention will be more
gear to deploy typically requires a crash landing that does apparent from the following more particular description
significant damage to the aircraft if not totally destroying the 25 thereof, presented in conjunction with the following draw
aircraft. ings.
FIG . 1 shows a simplified block diagram of a cross
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION sectional view of a primary landing gear drive system
coopered with a landing gear, in accordance with some
Some embodiments provide apparatuses configured to 30 embodiments.
deploy a landing gear of an aircraft. The apparatuses com - FIG . 2 shows the simplified block diagram of the cross
prise: a landing
landing gearaircraft
gear of the coupler; a configured
release linkto coupled
couple with
with the
the sectional view of the primary landing gear drive system of
landing gear coupler and configured to cooperate the landing FIG . 1 , in accordance with some embodiments, where the
gear coupler with a drive shaft of an electro -mechanical 35 drive shaft is in the deployed position .
primary landing gear drive system , wherein the drive shaft FIG . 3 shows a simplified block diagram of a cross
is configured , in response to an actuator moving the drive sectional view of an emergency and/or override deployment
shaft during normal intended operation of the primary system cooperated with a primary landing gear drive system
landing gear drive system , to drive the landing gear between and in a primed or inactivated state or configuration , in
a stowed position and a deployed position : an override 40 accordance with some embodiments .
driver cooperated with the landing gear coupler,wherein the FIG . 4 shows a simplified block diagram of the cross
release link is configured to releasably maintain a relative sectional view of the emergency deployment system of FIG .
position of landing gear coupler relative to the drive shaft 3 still in a primed state and cooperated with a primary
such that a drive force from the drive shaft is transferred to landing gear drive system , with the primary landing gear
the landing gear to effect movement of the landing gear 45 drive system in the extended or deployed position .
between the stowed position and the deployed position , and FIG . 5 shows a simplified block diagram of a cross
the release link is configured to disengage a coupling sectional view of the emergency deployment system in an
between the drive shaft and the landing gear coupler such actuated or triggered state and cooperated with the primary
that the landing gear coupler is configured to move at least landing gear drive system , in accordance with some embodi
in a direction toward the deployed position independent of 50 ments .
the drive shaft ; and wherein the override driver is configured FIG . 6 illustrates a perspective view of an emergency
to drive the landing gear coupler, independent of the drive deployment system in a primed state , in accordance with
shaft , to force the landing gear to transition to the deployed some embodiments.
position when the release link disengages the coupling FIG . 7 illustrates a cross - sectional view of the emergency
between the landing gear coupler and the drive shaft . 55 deployment system of FIG . 6 in the primed state , in accor
Further , some embodiments provide methods of deploy - dance with some embodiments .
ing landing gear, comprising : detecting a malfunction of a FIG . 8 shows an enlarged , cross -sectional view of a
linearly actuated a landing gear of an airplane such that the portion of the emergency deployment system depicted in
landing gear cannot effectively deploy ; communicating a FIG . 7 .
notification that the landing gear has not fully deployed ; 60 FIG . 9 illustrates a simplified , cross -sectional view of the
activating a release link to disengage a coupling between a emergency deployment system of FIGS. 6 - 8 in the primed
drive shaft of a primary landing gear drive system and a stated and cooperated with a primary landing gear drive
landing gear coupler that is coupled with the landing gear in system , in accordance with some embodiments .
response to an instruction to activate an emergency deploy . FIG . 10 illustrates a simplified , cross -sectional view of the
ment of the landing gear, and causing the landing gear 65 emergency deployment system of FIGS . 6 - 9 , in accordance
coupler to be moved independent of the drive shaft to a with some embodiments , with the primary landing gear
deployed position deploying the landing gear. drive system in the extended or deployed position .
 US 9 ,988, 143 B2
FIG . 11 shows a plane view of an emergency deployment implementations ” or similar language means that a particu
system , in accordance with some embodiments , in the lar feature , structure , or characteristic described in connec
actuated state . tion with the embodiment is included in at least one embodi
FIG . 12 shows a simplified cross- sectional view of the ment of the present invention . Thus, appearances of the
emergency deployment system , in accordance with some 5 phrases “ in one embodiment,” “ in an embodiment,” “ in
embodiments, in an actuated or deployed state . some embodiments ,” and similar language throughout this
FIG . 13 shows an enlarged , partial cross - sectional view of specification may, but do not necessarily , all refer to the
a receiving end of an emergency deployment system , in same embodiment.
accordance with some embodiments. Furthermore , the described features , structures, or char
FIG . 14 shows a simplified , partial cross - sectional view of 10 acteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable
an emergency deployment system proximate a receiving manner in one or more embodiments . In the following
end , in accordance with some embodiments . description , numerous specific details are provided , such as
FIG . 15 shows a simplified , cross - section view of an examples of programming , software modules, user selec
emergency deployment system in a primed state , in accor tions ,network transactions, database queries, database struc
dance with some embodiments . 15 tures, hardware modules, hardware circuits , hardware chips,
FIG . 16 shows a simplified cross - sectional view of an etc ., to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of
emergency deployment system cooperated with a primary the invention . One skilled in the relevant art will recognize ,
landing gear drive system , in accordance with some embodi- however, that the invention can be practiced without one or
ments . more of the specific details, or with other methods, compo
FIG . 17 shows a simplified cross - sectional view of the 20 nents, materials , and so forth . In other instances,well - known
emergency deployment system of FIG . 16 cooperated with structures, materials, or operations are not shown or
a primary landing gear drive system and in an actuated or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the inven
deployed state . tion .
FIG . 18 depicts a simplified cross -sectional view of an Landing gear of airplanes and other aircraft is critical to
emergency deployment system in a primed state and coop - 25 the airplane , as well as any equipment, personnel and
erated with a primary landing gear drive system , in accor - passengers that are carried by the airplane. Accordingly, the
dance with some embodiments. failure of the landing gear system can result in significant
FIG . 19 depicts a simplified cross-sectional view of the damage to the airplane and any equipment, personnel and/or
emergency deployment system of FIG . 18 in an actuated passengers . Some embodiments detect a failure and / or par
and/ or deployed state , in accordance with some embodi- 30 tial failure of a landing gear system and override the landing
ments . gear system to deploy the landing gear to allow the airplane
FIG . 20 shows a simplified block diagram of an aircraft to safely land. Accordingly, some embodiments provide an
control system in communication with a remote aircraft and alternative system to deploy or extend the landing gear in the
upon which are mounted landing gear emergency deploy event the primary system failed or malfunctioned . Further,
ment systems, in accordance with some embodiments . 35 the alternative or emergency deployment system , in some
FIG . 21 shows a simplified flow diagram of a process of embodiments , is fully redundant and can deploy the landing
controlling one or more landing gear emergency deployment gear independent of the operation of the primary landing
systems, in accordance with some embodiments. gear system .
FIG . 22 shows a simplified flow diagram of a process of FIG . 1 shows a simplified block diagram of a cross
controlling one or more emergency deployment systems, in 40 sectional view of a primary landing gear drive system 110
accordance with some embodiments . cooperated with a landing gear 116 , in accordance with some
FIG . 23 illustrates a system for use in implementing embodiments . Further, in some embodiments , the primary
methods, techniques, devices, apparatuses, systems, servers , landing gear drive system is an electro -mechanical landing
sources and the like in providing user interactive virtual gear system , while in other embodiments , the landing gear
environments in accordance with some embodiments . 45 system may be a hydraulically actuated landing gear system .
Corresponding reference characters indicate correspond - The primary landing gear drive system 110 includes at least
ing components throughout the several views of the draw a primary actuator or driver 112 and a drive shaft 114 that is
ings . Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the configured to couple directly or indirectly with a landing
figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not gear 116 . The primary actuator 112 cooperates with the drive
necessarily been drawn to scale . For example , the dimen - 50 shaft 114 ( sometimes referred to as an output shaft ) to
sions of some of the elements in the figures may be exag - transition the drive shaft 114 between a retracted or stowed
gerated relative to other elements to help to improve under position to an extended or deployed position . In many
standing of various embodiments of the present invention . embodiments , the primary actuator 112 is a linear electro
Also , common but well- understood elements that are useful mechanical actuator that drives the drive shaft to linearly
or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are 55 transition between stowed and deploy positions . For
often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view example , in some implementations the primary actuator 112
of these various embodiments of the present invention . comprises a linear servo . FIG . 1 shows the drive shaft 114
in the stowed position such that the landing gear is retracted
DETAILED DESCRIPTION and stowed during flight and not in use .
60 FIG . 2 shows the simplified block diagram of the cross
The following description is not to be taken in a limiting sectional view of the primary landing gear drive system 110
sense, but is made merely for the purpose of describing the of FIG . 1, in accordance with some embodiments, where the
general principles of exemplary embodiments. The scope of drive shaft is in the deployed position . In the deployed
the invention should be determined with reference to the position , the drive shaft is extended to drive the landing gear
claims. 65 116 out and into the deployed position such that the landing
Reference throughout this specification to “ one embodi - gear is positioned for use to contact a landing surface and
ment," " an embodiment," " some embodiments," " some support the weight of the airplane . In many embodiments ,
 US 9 ,988, 143 B2
the primary actuator 112 is a linear actuator and driver that of such couplers . The release link 314 is further configured
linearly drive the drive shaft between the stowed and to allow the emergency deployment system 310 to disengage
deployed positions . and /or release the landing gear coupler 312 from the drive
As introduced above, in some implementations an error or shaft 114 to allow for an emergency or override deployment
malfunction may occur that inhibits the landing gear system 5 of the landing gear, such as in response to a malfunction ,
from operating as intended such that the landing gear cannot error or failure of some or all of the primary landing gear
be deployed or cannot be sufficiently deployed to safely drive system 110 .
support the airplane during landing. For example , one or FIG . 5 shows a simplified block diagram of a cross
more sensors may detect whether the landing gear is fully sectional view of the emergency deployment system 310 in
deployed and/ or deployed to a sufficient level to safely land 10 an actuated or triggered state and cooperated with the
the airplane. Accordingly, some embodiments provide an primary landing gear drive system 110 , in accordance with
emergency or safety override deployment system that is some embodiments . The deployment of the landing gear
configured to deploy the landing gear even when the drive through the activation of the emergency deployment system
section of the landing gear system is not operating effec is sometimes referred to as an emergency extend operation .
tively . 15 In the actuated state , the emergency deployment system is
FIG . 3 shows a simplified block diagram of a cross actuated to deploy the landing gear independent of the
sectional view of a landing gear emergency and/ or override primary landing gear drive system 110 . Referring to FIGS .
deployment system 310 cooperated with a primary landing 3 -5 , in some embodiments, the override driver 316 is
gear drive system 110 and in a primed or inactivated state or cooperated with the landing gear coupler 312 and is posi
configuration , in accordance with some embodiments . In 20 tioned relative to the landing gear coupler to induce a force
some embodiments , the emergency deploy or deployment to drive the landing gear coupler 312 at least in a direction
system 310 comprises one or more landing gear couplers to cause the landing gear 116 to transition to the deployed
312, a release link 314 , an override driver 316 , and a trigger position .
and / or control circuitry 318 . Further , FIG . 3 shows the In some embodiments , the release link 314 releasably
landing gear system in the retracted or stowed position . FIG . 25 cooperates the landing gear coupler 312 with the drive shaft
4 shows a simplified block diagram of the cross -sectional 114 . As described above , when the primary landing gear
view of the emergency deployment system 310 of FIG . 3 drive system 110 is operating as intended and the primary
still in a primed state and cooperated with a primary landing actuator 112 is capable of effectively moving the drive shaft
gear drive system 110 , with the primary landing gear drive 114 , the release link 314 maintains a relative position of the
system in the extended or deployed position . The deploy - 30 landing gear coupler 312 relative to the drive shaft 114 .
ment of the landing gear without having to activate the Accordingly , when the drive shaft moves between the
emergency deployment system is sometimes referred to as a stowed and deployed positions the landing gear coupler 312
normal extend operation . transfers themovement of the drive shaft 114 to the landing
Referring to FIGS. 3 - 4 , the landing gear coupler 312 or gear 116 to effectively deploy and stow the landing gear.
linkage is configured to couple with the landing gear 116 35 When there is an error, malfunction or other problem
(see FIG . 1 ) of the airplane within which the landing gear inhibiting the effective movement of the drive shaft 114
system is positioned . In some embodiments , the release link during normal operation , the emergency deployment system
314 is configured to maintain the emergency deployment 310 can be activated to force the deployment of the landing
system in the primed state and ready to be activated to gear independent of the primary actuator 112 and drive shaft
deploy the landing gear 116 independent of the primary 40 114 . The release link 314 is configured to release or disen
actuator 112 and drive shaft 114 . Further, the release link gage the coupling between the drive shaft 114 and the
314 is configured to cooperate the landing gear coupler 312 landing gear coupler 312 , and the override driver 316 is
with the drive shaft 114 . In some embodiments , the release configured to drive the landing gear coupler 312 to the
link 314 couples with the landing gear coupler 312 , and deployed position independent of the drive shaft 114 . In
when implemented with a primary landing gear drive system 45 some embodiments , the trigger and / or control circuitry 318
110 , is configured to releasably cooperate the landing gear actuates the release link 314 to disengage or release the
coupler 312 with the drive shaft 114 of a landing gear coupling such that the landing gear coupler 312 moves
system . In some embodiments , the release link allows the independent of the drive shaft and is configured to drive the
landing gear coupler 312 to transfer the drive force from the landing gear to the deployed position without the drive shaft .
drive shaft 114 to the landing gear 116 in response to the 50 In some implementations, override driver 316 comprises
movement of the drive shaft. Further, in some implementa - one or more springs or other such devices storing a potential
tions , the drive forces are transferred through the release link energy , and the disengagement of the release link causes a
314 . release of the potential energy stored by the override driver
As shown in FIG . 4 , in some embodiments, at least the 316 . Accordingly , the emergency deployment system 310 is
landing gear coupler 312 is configured to move in coopera - 55 configured to deploy the landing gear 116 when a problem
tion with the movement of the drive shaft 114 during normal occurs with the primary actuator 112 and /or drive shaft 114
and intended operation of the primary landing gear drive that inhibits the primary landing gear drive system from
system 110 . The landing gear coupler 312 coupled with the deploying and / or fully deploying the landing gear 116 to a
landing gear 116 (see FIGS. 1 - 2 ) such that the landing gear deployed position or at least a sufficiently deployed position
is deployed and retracted as the landing gear coupler is 60 where the landing gear can effectively contact the landing
moved . The landing gear coupler 312 can be substantially surface ( e . g ., runway ) and support the weight of the airplane
any type of coupler, linkage , engager or the like configured while avoiding or limiting contact of the fuselage of the
to cooperate the landing gear 116 with the landing gear drive airplane from contacting the landing surface .
system 110 and/ or emergency deployment system . For Again , in some embodiments, the release link 314 is
example , the landing gear coupler 312 , in some embodi- 65 configured to maintain a relative position of the landing gear
ments, comprises a bolt, latch , end eye , clamp, link and pin , coupler 312 relative to the drive shaft 114 while the primary
ring bearing and bolt, or other such coupler or combination landing gear drive system 110 is operating as intended , and
 US 9, 988, 143 B2
to disengage the coupling to allow the landing gear coupler 110 . In many embodiments, the emergency deployment
to move at least in the direction to deploy the landing gear system is cooperated with an electro -mechanical landing
116 independent of the drive shaft 114 , such as in response gear system ; however, in other embodiments the emergency
to an error condition or malfunction. deployment system may be cooperated with other types of
The release link 314 can be substantially any releasable 5 landing gear systems include hydraulically actuated landing
coupling that is configured to maintain a relative position of gear systems and /or other systems. Further, the emergency
the landing gear coupler 312 relative to the drive shaft 114 deployment system 310 is typically implemented with lin
during normal and intended operation of the landing gear early actuated landing gear systems and / or landing gear
and further configured to disengage the coupling such that systems that allow decoupling by the release link while
the landing gear coupler 312 can move independent of the 10 allowing the override driver to deploy the landing gear.
drive shaft 114. For example , in some embodiments , the FIG . 6 illustrates a perspective view of a landing gear
release link 314 comprises a small, localized and /or directed emergency deployment system 610 in a primed state , in
explosive that upon detonation causes a break of at least a accordance with some embodiments . FIG . 7 illustrates a
portion of the release link resulting in the disengagement cross - sectional view of the emergency deployment system
between the landing gear coupler and the drive shaft. In 15 610 of FIG . 6 in the primed state , in accordance with some
some implementations the release link 314 includes an embodiments . In some embodiments , the emergency
explosive bolt that comprises a small explosive that when deployment system 610 comprises a landing gear coupler
detonated causes the bolt to break , typically at a predefined 312 , a release link 314 , the override driver 316 , an exterior
location along a length of the bolt, and in some instances at casing or sleeve 612 , an interior casing or sleeve 614 and a
a weakened location along a length of the bolt. The breaking 20 drive shaft connector616 or servo end fitting. FIG . 8 shows
of the bolt disengages the landing gear coupler 312 from the an enlarged , cross -sectional view of a portion of the emer
drive shaft 114 . gency deployment system 610 depicted in FIG . 7 and
Other devices and / or systems can be employed as the showing a cooperation between the exterior casing 612 and
release link , such as but not limited to a Frangibolt with the interior casing 614 proximate the landing gear coupler
designed weak point together with shape memory material 25 312 while in the primed state , in accordance with some
that heats up and expands to break the Frangibolt, split embodiments .
spool, pressure fit system , and other such devices or systems. Referring to FIGS. 6 - 8, in some embodiments , the landing
For example , in some embodiments, the release link com - gear coupler 312 is part of or is secured with the exterior
prises a split spool having two halves that cooperate to span casing 612 and extends from the exterior casing. Further, the
and maintain a positional relationship between two pins, 30 landing gear coupler 312 includes a coupling aperture , clasp ,
bolts or the like . A wire is wound around the split spool hook , bolt or other such structure or combinations of such
keeping the two halves together. A current can be applied to structures (referred to below for simplicity as a coupling
the wire that can cause the wire to fail, which allows the wire aperture 620 ) configured to secure with a portion of the
to unwind such that the two halves of the split spool separate landing gear to transfer drive forces to the landing gear in
and the two pins are allows to separate . Other embodiments 35 moving the landing gear between the deployed position and
may employ a pneumatic pressure system where one or the retracted or stowed position . For example, in some
more balls , cylinders or other such structures that maintain embodiments the landing gear coupler 312 comprises an
the structure of the release link . A pressure can be applied extended post, protrusion , plinth or the like extending from
( e. g., pneumatic pressure ) to move a portion of the system the exterior casing 612 and in which is formed the coupling
aligning one or more holes or detents with one ormore balls, 40 aperture 620 or with which the coupling aperture is secured .
cylinders or the like . Upon alignment, the balls move into The exterior casing 612 extends away from the landing
the holes allowing one or more parts of the release link to gear coupler 312 . In some embodiments, the interior casing
separate resulting in disengagement. Other such systems, 614 is positioned adjacent the exterior casing and in some
devices and /or combinations can be used to implement the implementations at least partially within the exterior casing
release link . 45 612 . The exterior casing 612 and interior casing 614 are
The override driver 316 is configured to drive the landing depicted in FIGS. 6 and 7 as being cylindrical. It will be
gear coupler 312 at least to the deployed position indepen - appreciated by those skilled in the art that the exterior and
dent of movement or non -movement of the drive shaft 114 . interior casings can have substantially any relevant shape
In some in embodiments , the override driver 316 is a spring that cooperates with the primary landing gear drive system
that stores potential energy . Once the release link 314 is 50 110 ( e . g ., square cross - section , triangular cross -section , rect
activated it causes a decoupling between the landing gear angular cross -section , octagonal cross -section , etc . ). The
coupler 312 and the drive shaft 114 , and the override driver interior casing, in at least some implementations , is inserted
can be activated to drive the landing gear coupling. In some through a receiving end 622 or orifice and into an interior
embodiments, the disengagement by the release link acti- chamber or cavity formed by the walls of the exterior casing
vates the override driver 316 . For example , in some imple - 55 612 to be at least partially positioned within the interior
mentations, the override driver 316 comprises one or more chamber at least while the emergency deployment system is
springs that are at least partially compressed and once the in the primed state .
release link disengages the coupling between the landing In some embodiments , the release link 314 releasably
gear coupler 312 and the drive shaft 114 the one or more secures the exterior casing 612 with the interior casing 614 .
springs expand forcing the landing gear coupler 312 to the 60 For example , in some instances , the release link 314 com
deployed or extended position . The override driver 316 can prises an explosive bolt that extends from an exterior of the
include one ormore types of driver systems, such as but not exterior casing 612 to an interior of the interior casing 614 .
limited to one or more springs , compressed gas , pneumatic Some implementations include a nut, pin or other structure
fluid , explosive, and other such drivers or drive systems, or thatmates with the exploding bolt, while in other instances,
combinations of such drivers or drive systems. 65 the exploding bolt may threadedly secure with mating
The emergency deployment system 310 can be imple threads of the interior casing 614 . As described above , other
mented with substantially any relevant landing gear system release links can be employed in some implementations. The
 US 9, 988, 143 B2
10
release link 314 , in some embodiments, is configured to at compression of the spring while the release link 314 is
least in part maintain a position of the exterior casing 612 engaged and maintaining the position of the exterior casing
relative to the interior casing 614 . Further, in many embodi relative to the interior casing .
ments, the interior casing 614 is positioned to be coaxially T he exterior casing ledge 812 , in some implementations ,
aligned with the exterior casing 612 , with a coupling end of 5 protrudes from an the interiorwall of the exterior casing and
the interior casing being secured proximate a coupling end extends toward a central axis of the exterior casing to in part
of the exterior casing , while an open or receiving end 622 maintain a position of the override drive spring and upon
may be open and configured to receive at least a portion of which the spring exerts force on the exterior casing 612.
the drive shaft 114 of the primary landing gear drive system Further , in some embodiments , the exterior casing ledge 812
110 . Similarly , in some implementations , the interior casing 10 may extend around a circumference of an interior of the
and the exterior casing are positioned about at least a portion exterior casing . The interior casing ledge 814 , in some
of a length of and are coaxially aligned with the drive shaft embodiments , protrudes from an exterior of the interior
114 , and linearly move substantially parallel with and typi
cally along an axis 718 of the drive shaft between the stowed casing and extends away from a central axis of the interior
and deployed positions. casing to in part maintain a position of the override drive
In some embodiments , the drive shaft connector 616 is spring and from which the spring exerts force on the exterior
coupled with the interior casing 614 and is configured to casing 612 , at least after the release link has disengaged .
further couple with the drive shaft 114 (not depicted in Further, in some embodiments, the interior casing ledge 814
FIGS. 6 -7 ) . The drive shaft connector 616 is secured with extends around the exterior circumference of the interior
interior casing 614 through one or more bolts , pins, rivets, 20 casing 614 . Accordingly , the override drive spring , in some
threading or other such methods or combinations of such implementations, is positioned about the interior casing
methods . For example , the drive shaft connector 616 may be between the interior casing and the exterior casing , and
threadedly secured directly with mating threads formed in between the exterior casing ledge (s ) 812 and the interior
the interior casing or a threading otherwise secured with the casing ledge (s ) 814 . The one or more drive springs can be
interior casing and /or the release link 314 . 25 substantially any relevant spring configured to provide suf
The drive shaft connector 616 is further configured to ficient force to deploy the landing gear. For example , in
couple with the drive shaft 114 , securing the interior casing some embodiments the drive spring is a compression spring
with the drive shaft, and transfer the drive force from the formed of titanium , steel alloy, or other such relevant
drive shaft to the landing gear coupler 312 . In some imple material or combinations of such materials . Upon decou
mentations, the drive shaft connector 616 couples with the 30 pling of the exterior casing from the interior casing , the
drive shaft through threading , one or more pins, one or more override driver, in some embodiments , applies a force to the
bolts and /or other such coupling. For example , the drive exterior casing and moves the exterior casing and the
shaft connector 616 , in some implementations, may include landing gear coupler to the deployed position effectively
threading that threaded engages the drive shaft 114 or a duplicating the results that would have otherwise been
coupling attachment that secures the drive shaft connector 35 performed by the primary actuator 112 .
616 with the drive shaft. Additionally or alternatively, the Some embodiments further comprise the control circuitry
drive shaft connector may extend at least partially around 318 that activates or triggers the release link to disengage
the drive shaft or a coupling attachment ( or fit within the causing the decoupling between the landing gear coupler
drive shaft or coupling attachment) and/or a pin , bolt or the 312 and the drive shaft 114 . As described above , some
like may extend through some or all of the drive shaft 40 embodiments include an explosive bolt as at least part of the
connector and into or through the drive shaft. In other release link . The control circuitry can couple with the release
embodiments, the drive shaft connector 616 is not included link through a conductor 628 , wiring or the like. The control
and the drive shaft 114 couples directly with the release link circuitry can cause a signal, a current of a threshold level, a
314 , the interior casing 614 or other structure of the emer - voltage or other such activation to be delivered to the release
gency deployment system . 45 link . For example, a current above a threshold level can be
In some embodiments , the override driver 316 is posi - applied to an explosive bolt to ignite or otherwise trigger the
tioned between the exterior casing 612 and the interior explosive to detonate causing the bolt to break (e.g ., at a
casing 614 . For example , a region between the exterior weakened point 820 ) . The signal, trigger or the like causes
casing and the interior casing can define an override driver the release link 314 to disengage the coupling between the
cavity 630 within which the override driver is positioned . In 50 drive shaft 114 and the landing gear coupler 312 such that
some implementations, the exterior casing includes one or the landing gear coupler is configured to move at least
more ledges 812 , shoulders , walls or other such structure at toward the deployment position independent of the primary
one end of the override driver cavity 630 , and the interior actuator 112 and drive shaft 114 . In some embodiments, the
casing includes one ormore ledges 814 , shoulders , walls orban
or landing gear coupler 312 and/ or other structure (e . g ., coop
other such structure at an opposing end of the override driver 55 erated with the exterior casing ) provides a least some
cavity 630 . In some embodiments , the override driver com - protection for the release link 314 and/ or the conductor 628 .
prises one or more springs. At least one spring can be FIG . 9 illustrates a simplified , cross - sectional view of the
positioned within the override driver cavity 630 with the emergency deployment system 610 of FIGS. 6 - 8 in the
spring positioned between the ledge 812 of the exterior primed state and cooperated with a primary landing gear
casing and the ledge 814 of the interior casing . In some 60 drive system 110, in accordance with some embodiments ,
implementations, the exterior casing ledge and the interior with the primary landing gear drive system in the retracted
casing ledge maintain the spring in a compressed state while or stowed position . FIG . 10 illustrates a simplified , cross
the emergency deployment system 610 is in the primed state sectional view of the emergency deployment system 610 of
and not activated such that the release link 314 is engaged FIGS. 6 - 9 cooperated with a primary landing gear drive
and maintaining the position of the exterior casing 612 65 system 110 , in accordance with some embodiments , with the
relative to the interior casing 614 . Accordingly , the release primary landing gear drive system in the extended or
link 314 maintains the potential energy provided through the deployed position .
 US 9, 988, 143 B2
Referring to FIGS. 9 - 10 , as described above , in some actuated state and after the override driver 316 has been
implementations , the interior casing 614 is configured to released to drive the landing gear coupler 312 to the
cooperate with and receive at least a portion of the drive deployed position . FIG . 12 shows a simplified cross -sec
shaft 114 . Further, in some embodiments , the interior casing tional view of the emergency deployment system 310 , in
has dimensions to receive a drive shaft housing 914 or 5 accordance with some embodiments , after the override
containment sleeve that surrounds the drive shaft 114 and driver 316 has been activated to drive the landing gear
extends along at least a portion of a length of the drive shaft, coupler 312 to the deployed position . In driving the landing
at least when the drive shaft is in a retracted or stowed gear coupler 312 to the deployed position , the exterior
position . Still further, in some embodiments , the receiving casing 612 travels along a portion of a length of the interior
end 622 of the interior casing comprises an aperture that has 10 casing 614 , and typically greater than half the length of the
dimensions that are substantially the same as an outer interior casing; however, the distance of travel of the exterior
dimension of the drive shaft housing 914 . casing is dependent on the dimensions of the primary
With the emergency deployment system 610 fixed with landing gear drive system 110 , the emergency deployment
the drive shaft 114 , in some embodiments , drive shaft 114 system , the movement of the landing gear 116 and other
and drive shaft housing 914 at least partially extend through 15 such factors. As such , the emergency deployment system
the receiving end 622 and into an interior cavity defined by 610 is configured , in at least some embodiments , to linearly
the interior casing . Further, in some implementations, the move the landing gear coupler 312 at least a sufficient
interior casing 614 establish a seal with the exterior of the distance when the primary landing gear drive system 110 is
drive shaft housing 914 , for example through one or more in the stowed position to fully extend the landing gear to the
gaskets , O - rings 714 ( sec FIG . 7 ) or other such structure . In 20 deployed position . Thus, the emergency deployment system ,
some embodiments, during normal and intended operation in at least some embodiments, provides fully redundant
of the primary landing gear drive system 110 , the emergency landing gear deployment capabilities to the airplane .
deployment system 610 is configured to move as the drive As described above , in some embodiments, the override
shaft is transitioned between the stowed and deployed driver 316 comprises one or more springs positioned with
positions, and in some instances, along at least a portion of 25 the override driver cavity 630 . Upon release , the spring
a length 1012 of the drive shaft housing 914 . Further, in expands, in some embodiments , driving the landing gear
operation in accordance with some embodiments , the force coupler to the deployed position while pressing between the
exerted by the drive shaft 114 is transferred through the drive first ledge 812 of the exterior casing 612 and the second
shaft connector 616 and the landing gear coupler 312 to the ledge of the interior casing 614 causing a separation of a first
landing gear 116 . In some implementations, the force from 30 end of the exterior casing that is proximate the landing gear
the drive shaft 114 is further transferred at least in part coupler from the first end of the interior casing. The interior
through one or more of the release link 314 , interior casing casing 614 typically continues to be secured with the drive
614 and exterior casing 612 to the landing gear 116 . shaft 114 , such as through the drive shaft connector 616 , and
Accordingly , in some embodiments, the interior casing thus typically only moved a distance that the drive shaft
314 and exterior casing 612 are configured with dimensions 35 allows. The exterior casing 612 and the landing gear coupler
to receive the drive shaft housing 914 of the primary landing 312 , however, move independent of the drive shaft.
gear drive system . Still further, in some implementations, In other embodiments , the interior casing 614 is config
the exterior and interior casings 612 , 614 are configured with ured to move relative to the exterior casing 612 in response
dimensions that are similar to those of the primary actuator to the disengagement of one or more release links. For
112 such that the exterior and interior casings 612 , 614 do 40 example , the exterior casing may be fixed to the drive shaft
not significantly add to the dimensions of the overall pri- housing 914 , the primary actuator 112 , the drive shaft 114 or
mary landing gear drive system , and in some implementa - other structure . The disengagement by the release link can
tions can be retrofitted with existing linear landing gear allow the exterior casing cooperated and the landing gear
drive systems. For example , an outer diameter 920 of the coupler to be driven by one or more override drivers to
exterior casing 612 is similar to a width and /or height 922 in 45 transition to the deployed position .
accordance with some embodiments . Further, in some Referring back to FIG . 7 , some embodiments further
embodiments, the cavity defined by an interior of the interior attempt to dampen the drive force of the override driver 316
casing 614 has a length that , in some embodiments , is about to limit and /or avoid the landing gear being driven into the
equal to or greater than a length of the drive shaft housing deployed position with a force thatmay cause damage to the
914 . 50 landing gear , landing gear supports and / or couplings , and / or
As described above, when a malfunction or other problem the airplane. Accordingly , some embodiments are config
is detected where the landing gear 116 is not deployed and/ or ured to include one or more deployment dampers , brakes ,
is not fully deployed , the emergency deployment system can checks , force lesseners , or the like that is /are configured to
be activated and the release link 314 trigged to release the limit speed at which the landing gear coupler moves when
coupling such that the landing gear coupler 312 is config - 55 driven by the override driver and / or limit or reduce a force
ured to move independent of the drive shaft 114 . In some applied when the emergency deploymentsystem is actuated .
embodiments , the disengagement by the release link is The damper can include one or more springs , hydraulics ,
associated with the activation and/or of the override driver pressure , and/ or other such devices or systems to reduce ,
316 that drives the exterior casing 612 and landing gear distribute and /or partially control the drive force .
coupler 312 to transition the landing gear to the deployed 60 In some embodiments , the emergency deployment system
position . Typically , the exterior casing and landing gear includes a damper or brake system comprising a chamber
coupler are moved along the same path that the drive shaft 720 that contains a gas , fluid or other such material. The
would otherwise drive the landing gear coupler had the chamber 720 typically is defined between an inner wall of
primary landing gear drive system been operating correctly the exterior casing 612 and an exterior wall of the interior
to fully deploy the landing gear. 65 casing 614 along a portion of the length of the interior
FIG . 11 shows a plane view of an emergency deployment casing . Further , the chamber 720 can extend a portion of or
system 310 , in accordance with some embodiments , in the completely around a periphery of the interior casing. One or
 US 9 ,988, 143 B2
13 14
more seals 722 , 724 ( e. g ., through one or more O -rings, toward the deployment position ) while resisting movement
gaskets, compression fit, etc .) are established to maintain the in the opposite direction . In some implementations, the lever
gas , fluid etc . within the chamber while the exterior casing 1320 includes an edge 1322 , corner, one ormore teeth or the
612 is maintained in a position relative to the interior casing like configured to contact the exterior surface of the interior
614 . Typically, the seals are positioned on opposing ends of 5 casing 614 . The edge is positioned and configured to readily
the chamber 720 . slides along the exterior surface of the interior casing 614
Further, in some embodiments, the emergency deploy - when the exterior casing 612 is moving in the direction
ment system 610 further includes one or more fluid or gas toward the deployed position , while digging into the exterior
discharge ports 730 cooperated with the chamber 720 . In surface should a force be applied to the exterior casing in a
some embodiments , as the exterior casing moves relative to 10 direction the is away from the deployed position ( i. e ., toward
the interior casing 614 and toward the deployed position , a the stowed position ). In some embodiments, the lever is
volume of the chamber is reduced and a pressure within the biased with a surface leading to the edge 1322 at the angle
chamber increases. Typically , the discharge port 730 to the exterior surface of the interior casing and at least
includes a rupturable seal 732 , spring or otherwise biased partially pivots or compresses against the bias when force is
seal or other seal that is overcomeonce pressure on the seal 15 applied to the exterior casing in the direction toward the
exceeds a pressure threshold . As such , at least a portion of stowed position . Further , in some embodiments , the locking
the fluid and/ or gas within the chamber 720 may be released system 1316 comprises a ring structure , with the lever 1320
through the discharge port 730 once the pressure within the having a ring shape and incorporated as at least part of a
chamber meets or exceeds the pressure threshold of the seal. locking ring that is cooperated with the exterior casing and
Some embodiments further include a reservoir, tank or the 20 positioned about the interior casing. The edge 1322 is
like (not shown ) that is directly coupled with or coupled configured to contact at least a portion of an exterior surface
through one or more conduits, hoses, etc . with the discharge of the interior casing , wherein the locking ring readily
port 730 to receive the fluid and /or gas released from the allowsmovement between the exterior casing and the inte
chamber . rior casing in the direction toward the deployment position ,
FIG . 13 shows an enlarged , partial cross -sectional view of 25 when the landing gear coupler is moving relative to the
the receiving end 622 of the emergency deployment system interior casing to the deployed position , and resists move
610 , in accordance with some embodiments . A portion of the ment of the exterior casing relative to the interior casing in
chamber 720 is depicted in FIG . 13 , while also illustrating in a direction away from and opposite to the direction toward
a cooperation of the discharge port 730 with the cavity , such the deployed position .
as through one or more discharge conduits 1312 , channels, 30 In some embodiments , the exterior casing includes one or
orifices or other such passages . Also illustrated , is a seal 724 more recesses , grooves 1326 or other such structure into
around an exterior circumference of the interior casing 614 which the one or more levers are positioned . For example ,
with the exterior casing 612, in accordance with some in some implementations, the exterior casing comprises an
embodiments, defining an end of the chamber 720 and annular groove 1326 formed in and extending around an
proximate the discharge port. As introduced above , some 35 interior wall of the exterior casing . The locking ring is
embodiments include a rupture disc or other structure coop - positioned within the annular groove 1326 with the edge
erated with the discharge port 730 to keep the fluid or gas 1322 positioned to extend beyond the surface of the interior
within the chamber 720 prior to the activation of the wall such that the edge can contact the exterior surface of the
emergency deployment system 610 . interior casing 614 when the interior casing is cooperated
In some embodiments , the emergency deployment system 40 with the exterior casing . Some embodiments include one or
610 further includes a locking or braking system 1316 . The more springs, wave springs, or other such structure that
locking system is configured to readily slide along an applies a force on and/ or otherwise biases the locking ring
exterior surface of the interior casing 614 as the exterior such that the edge 1322 continues to contact the interior
casing 612 moves relative to the interior casing in response casing. In some implementations, the wave spring is posi
to the release link disengaging. The locking system 1316 is 45 tioned within the annular groove 1326 with the locking ring .
further configured to inhibit or prevent movement of the FIG . 14 shows a simplified , partial cross - sectional view of
exterior casing 612 from being forced in an opposite direc - the emergency deployment system 610 proximate the
tion away from the deployed position and toward the stowed receiving end 622 , in accordance with some embodiments .
position ( e . g ., causing a compression of the spring of the The emergency deployment system , in some embodiments ,
override driver 316 ), such as when force is applied to the 50 further includes one or more safety pins or locks 1412 that,
landing gear coupler 312 by the landing gear contacting the when engaged , prevents the exterior casing 612 from mov
landing surface . In many embodiments , the spring of the ing relative to the interior casing 614 regardless of whether
override driver 316 has a force sufficient to cause the landing the release link 314 is engaged or disengaged . Accordingly ,
gear to deploy. Typically, however, the spring of the override the safety pin 1412 prevents unintended movement of the
driver 316 provides insufficient force to compensate for 55 exterior casing and/or deployment. This can be particularly
forces applied when the landing gear contacts the landing advantageous during transport, installation and /or mainte
surface and supports the airplane as the airplane is landing . nance on the emergency deployment system 610 . Further,
Accordingly, some embodiments include the locking system the safety pin 1412 may be engaged to prevent movementof
1316 to inhibit movement of the exterior casing and/or the exterior casing when the airplane upon which the emer
landing gear coupler 312 in a direction away from the 60 gency deployment system is mounted is on the ground and
deployed position once the release link has disengaged and not in use .
the override driver 316 has moved the landing gear coupler In some embodiments, the safety pin 1412 is positioned to
toward and /or to the deployed position . extend through an aperture in each of exterior casing 612
For example , the locking system 1316 includes, in some and the interior casing 614 when the safety pin is engaged
embodiments , one or more levers 1320 , ratchets , posts , 65 to prevent movement of the exterior casing relative to the
rings, brakes , or the like positioned to allow movement of interior casing. Further, the safety pin may include one or
the exterior casing 612 in a first direction (i.e., in a direction more latching pegs or posts that extend laterally from the
 US 9, 988, 143 B2
15 16
sides of the pin to engage locking grooves in one or both of shaft connector 616 is secured with the interior casing 614
the exterior and/ or interior casings to secure the safety pin in through cross -pin 1550, bolt, rivet or other such structure .
the engaged position . Further, in some implementations, the FIG . 16 shows a simplified cross -sectional view of an
safety pin maybe spring biased to maintain its position emergency deployment system 1610 cooperated with a
extending through both the interior and exterior casings 5 primary landing gear drive system 110 , in accordance with
when engaged . The safety pin may be fully removed from some embodiments . In FIG . 16 , the emergency deployment
the emergency deployment system when disengaged , or system is illustrated in a primed or unactuated state and in
removed at least from the aperture in the interior casing the stowed position . The emergency deployment system
(e.g., the pin is locked , such as through a rotation into the? 10 614 , a includes
1610 an exterior casing 612 , and interior casing
disengaged position ). Typically , should the release link 314 override driver gear
landing coupler 312 , a release link 314 and an
disengage and release the exterior casing while the safety sectional view of the .emergency
316 FIG . 17 shows a simplified cross
pin 1412 is engaged , the pressure applied by the override FIG . 16 cooperated with a primarydeployment system 1610 of
landing gear drive system
driver 316 pinches the safety pin between opposing sides of 110 and in an actuated or deployed state or position follow
the apertures of the exterior casing and the interior casing
casing 1515 ing
ing the dis
the disengagement by the release link such that the
establishing a force on the safety pin thatprevents the safety landing gear coupler 312 is in the deployed position inde
pin from being removed while the safety pin prevents the pendent of the interior casing 614 and drive shaft 114 , in
exterior casing from movement at least relative to the accordance with some embodiments .
interior casing. Referring to FIGS. 16 - 17 , in some embodiments, the
FIG . 15 shows a simplified , cross -section view of an 20 interior casing 614 has a length that is less than a length of
emergency deployment system 1510 in a primed state , in the exterior casing 612 . In some instances , the length of the
accordance with some embodiments . The emergency interior casing may be half the length of the exterior casing,
deployment system 1510 includes an override driver 1512 while in other implementations, the interior casing may be
that comprises a first or primary override driver spring 1514 a third , two thirds , four fifth or other such lengths of the
and a second or secondary override driver spring 1516 . The 25 exterior casing . For example , the interior casing may be
cooperation of the two springs allows the use of springs positioned fully within a cavity defined by the exterior
having different stiffnesses, and /or spring constantans, casing when the release link has not been activated to release
sometimes defined by the change in the force exerted the coupling between the interior and exterior casings .
divided by the change in deflection of the spring. For Further, in some embodiments , the interior casing is not
example , in some embodiments , the secondary override 30 sealed with the exterior casing and does not provide a
driver spring 1516 is a stiffer spring than the primary damper chamber or damper fluid or gas .
override driver spring 1514 , and typically has an expanded The override driver 316 , in some embodiments , includes
or non - compressed length that is less than the non - com - one or more override drive springs . In some implementa
pressed length of the primary override driver spring 1514 . tions, the interior casing 614 includes one ormore shoulders
As such , the secondary override spring provides an initial 35 1620 , walls, ledges or other such structures against which an
larger force on the exterior casing 612 over a short range of override drive spring is positioned . The interior casing
motion , and in some embodiments over only a first portion shoulder 1620 , in some embodiments , protrudes from the
of a distance traveled by the landing gear coupler when exterior of the interior casing and extends laterally away
moving to the deployed position . The increased force can be from a central axis of the interior casing to in part maintain
used to , at least in part and in some implementations, 40 a position of the override drive spring and from which the
overcome and /or force landing gear doors to open . The spring exerts pressure on the exterior casing 612 , at least
primary override driver spring 1514 continues to expand after the release link has disengaged . Further , in some
after the secondary override spring stops applying force to embodiments , the shoulder 1620 extends around the exterior
continue to drive the landing gear to the deployed and /or circumference of the interior casing 614 . Similarly, in some
fully extended position , and thus, in some embodiments over 45 implementations, the exterior casing 612 further includes
at least a second portion of the distance traveled by the one or more shoulders 1622 , walls , ledges or other such
landing gear coupler when moving to the deployed position . structures against which the override drive spring is posi
Some embodiment that include the multi-spring configu - tioned . The exterior casing shoulder 1622 , in some embodi
ration include multiple override driver cavities 1530 , 1532 , ments , protrudes from the interior wall of the exterior casing
recesses or the like in which the multiple override springs 50 and extends laterally toward a central axis of the exterior
are positioned . For example , in the embodiment depicted in casing to in part maintain a position of the override drive
FIG . 15 the emergency deployment system 1510 includes a spring upon which the spring exerts pressure on the exterior
first override driver cavity 1530 into which the primary casing 612. Further , in some embodiments , the exterior
override driver spring 1514 is positioned and formed casing shoulder 1622 extends around the circumference of
between the exterior casing 612 and the interior casing 614 55 an interior of the exterior casing. As such , the override drive
and between a lip , ledge, shoulder 1534 or other such spring , in some implementations, is positioned about the
structure of the interior casing and a wall 1536 , shoulder or interior casing between the interior casing and the exterior
other such structure of the exterior casing . Similarly , the casing, and between the interior casing shoulder ( s ) 1620 and
second override driver recess 1532 receives the secondary the exterior casing shoulder(s ) 1622 .
override driver spring 1516 and is formed , in some embodi- 60 The activation of the emergency deployment system 1610
ments between an shoulder 1540 , ledge, lip or the like of the causes the release of the override drive spring to expand
interior casing 614 and a shoulder, wall, ledge, end cap 1542 moving the landing gear coupler 312 . The distance or
or other structure of the exterior casing 612 . amount of travel of the exterior casing 612 and/or landing
In some embodiments , the exterior casing 612 and land - gear coupler 312 is typically restricted by the landing gear
ing gear coupler 312 is releasably secured relative to the 65 116 and the full deployment of the landing gear (e .g., a
interior casing 614 through a release link 314 , such as those landing gear stop and /or locking mechanism ). Accordingly ,
described above . Further, in some embodiments , a drive the override driver 316 is configured , in at least some
 US 9 ,988, 143 B2
17 18
embodiments , to linearly move the landing gear coupler 312 cooperate with the interior casing to establish a seal or only
at least a sufficientdistance when the emergency deployment provide a relatively small opening between the casings such
system 1610 ( and the primary landing gear drive system 110 that as the gas and / or fluid is injected into the chamber
is in the stowed position ) to fully extend the landing gear to sufficient pressure is at least temporarily established to drive
the deployed position. 5 the exterior casing and landing gear coupler 312 to the
FIG . 18 depicts a simplified cross - sectional view of an deployed position independent of the drive shaft 114 , the
emergency deployment system 1810 in a primed state and operation of the primary landing gear drive system 110
cooperated with a primary landing gear drive system 110 , in and / or the linear location of the drive shaft at the time a
accordance with some embodiments . FIG . 19 depicts a malfunction , failure or other error is detected .
simplified cross -sectional view of the emergency deploy - 10 The emergency deployment system can be utilized with
ment system 1810 of FIG . 18 in an actuated and / or deployed substantially any relevant landing gear system and /or air
state and /or position after having been activated , in accor craft. Further, in many embodiments, the emergency deploy
dance with some embodiments . The emergency deployment ment system is configured to be implemented with linear
system 1810 , in some embodiments , includes an exterior primary actuators ( e .g ., linear electromechanical actuator,
casing 612 , an interior casing 614 , one or more landing gear 15 linear hydraulic actuators , etc . ) and / or other systems having
couplers 312 , a release link 314 , and an override driver 316 . a drive shaft that linearly moves in deploying landing gear.
Referring to FIGS. 18 - 19, the emergency deployment The emergency deployment system can be activated by a
system 1810 is secured with the drive shaft 114 of the pilot, automated controller that receives feedback from one
primary landing gear drive system 110 such that at least the or more sensors , one or more control systems operated on
landing gear coupler 312 moves in cooperation with the 20 the aircraft, one or more remote control systems, remote
drive shaft while the emergency deployment system is in the operator, other such controllers, or combinations thereof. In
primed state . The landing gear coupler 312 is configured to some implementations the emergency deployment system
couple directly or indirectly with the landing gear 116 (not can be utilized in unmanned aircraft that are remotely
depicted in FIG . 18 ) to deploy and /or stow the landing gear controlled . Further, the emergency deployment system is
in accordance with the operation of the primary landing gear 25 often configured to fit within limited space with the landing
drive system and/ or the emergency deployment system . gear. In many implementations, the emergency deployment
In some embodiments , the interior casing 614 is secured system is cooperated with existing primary landing gear
with the drive shaft 114 , for example , through a drive shaft systems while fitting within the existing space designed to
connector 616 . Further, the exterior casing 612 is configured receive the landing gear when the landing gear is retracted
to movably cooperate with the interior casing 614 . In some 30 and stowed .
embodiments , the exterior casing includes a receiving orifice FIG . 20 shows a simplified block diagram of an aircraft
or hole leading to an interior chamber and configured to control system 2012 in communication with a remote air
receive at least a portion of the interior casing 614 . Further , craft 2014 and upon which are mounted landing gear emer
the orifice can be configured to create a seal about an gency deployment systems 2016 (such as one or more of
exterior surface of the interior casing 614 . The seal can be 35 those described above ) cooperated with landing gear, in
gas tight or relatively gas tight. In some implementation the accordance with some embodiments. The aircraft control
seal is created through one or more gaskets , O - rings, washer, system 2012 is configured to provide control signals to at
or other such sealings. least activate the emergency deployment system . In many
The release link 314 maintains the coupling between the
embodiments , the control system 2012 is further configured
drive shaft 114 and the landing gear coupler 312 when 40 to provide control signals to the aircraft to control the flight
engaged . For example, in some implementations the release of the aircraft. Further, in many embodiments , a geographi
link secures the exterior casing with the drive shaft connec - cally remote pilot or operator is positioned at the control
tor 616 that in turn is secured with the interior casing 614 system and remotely controls the aircraft 2014 based on
and the drive shaft. In response to detecting a malfunction , information (e .g ., video , images, sensor data , and other such
the release link can be triggered to disengage the coupling 45 information ). For example , in some instances , the aircraft
between the exterior casing and the interior casing . Further , receives flight instructions that dictate flight control over the
the override driver 316 can be activated . In some embodi- airplane and/ or surveillance instructions that dictate control
ments , the override driver 316 comprises one or more over surveillance equipment of the airplane from a remote
sources of gas and /or liquid and injects the gas and/ or liquid operator located at a geographically remote location from
into the interior chamber of the exterior casing 612 between 50 the airplane . In response to the instructions, the aircraft
the exterior casing and the interior casing 614 increasing a implements the flight instructions to modify one of a current
pressure within the chamber. The increased pressure drives direction of travel and altitude of the airplane, and/or imple
the exterior casing 612 toward the deployed position . Some ments the surveillance instructions to modify an operation of
embodiments additionally include one or more locking one ormore surveillance equipment carried on the airplane.
systems or mechanisms that resist the movement of the 55 In some implementations, the control system 2012 com
exterior casing in a direction away from the deployed municates directly with the emergency deployment system
position , such as the locking system 1316 , a ratchet and/ or ( e . g ., through a control circuitry 318 ) and /or a control
ratchet wheel, or other such locking system . system 2018 of the aircraft 2014 , which in turn can activate
In some embodiments, the override driver 316 comprises the emergency deployment system in response to remote
one or more tanks or other such sources of compressed gas 60 commands and /or in response to detecting a malfunction ,
that couple with a port of the exterior casing. The com - failure , error or the like. In other embodiments , the control
pressed gas source releases the compressed gas through the system 2012 communicates with the emergency deployment
port and into the interior chamber of the exterior casing . The system 2016 and/ or a control system 2018 of the aircraft
tank or other source of compressed gas can be fixed with the 2014 through one ormore wired and / or wireless communi
exterior casing to move as the exterior casing moves , or can 65 cation links , such as via one or more satellites 2020 orbiting
be coupled with the exterior casing through a conduit, hose the earth , one or more antennas , fiber optic cables , and/ or
or the like. As described above , the exterior casing 612 may other such links or combinations of such types of links . This
 US 9, 988, 143 B2
19 20
allows the aircraft, in at least some implementations, to be aircraft and / or the landing gear (e .g ., based on one or more
operated from extremely remote locations including on sensors in the airplane detecting the operation , deployment
opposite sides of the world . and / or retraction of the landing gear). The operator may
FIG . 21 shows a simplified flow diagram of a process additionally or alternatively use one or more cameras on the
2110 of controlling one or more landing gear emergency 5 aircraft to determine and/ or confirm whether the one or more
deployment systems, in accordance with some embodi- landing gear has deployed or sufficiently deployed . In
ments . In step 2112 , an error or malfunction is detected response to determining that the landing gear is not fully or
indicating that one or more landing gear of an aircraft cannot sufficiently deployed , the operator activates one or more of
effectively deploy to a sufficient position to support the the landing gear emergency deployment systems 2016 on
airplane and /or has not fully deployed in response to an 10 the aircraft.
instruction to deploy . In step 2114 , a notification is commu The instruction to activate the emergency deployment
nicated to a location remote from the aircraft regarding the system , in some embodiments , causes the control circuitry
detected error or malfunction that the landing gear has not 318 to trigger the release link 314 . For example , the control
fully deployed . As introduced above , in some implementa - circuitry can activate an explosive charge ( e . g ., an explosive
tions , the emergency deployment system and /or the aircraft 15 bolt ) breaking a coupling between the drive shaft and the
may be operated and controlled by an operator that is not on landing gear coupler. The activation of the emergency
the aircraft, but instead at a remote location . As such , the deploy system , in some embodiments, further causes a
communication of the notification can be via a wireless release of stored potential energy that drives the landing gear
communication . coupler coupled with the landing gear away from the drive
In step 2116 , the emergency deployment system is trig - 20 shaft and deploys the landing gear .
gered to override the primary landing gear drive system . In FIG . 22 shows a simplified flow diagram of a process
many embodiments , this includes activating the release link 2210 of controlling one or more emergency deployment
314 to disengage the coupling between the drive shaft 114 of systems through a remote control system , in accordance
a primary landing gear drive system 110 and the landing gear with some embodiments . In step 2212 , information is
coupler 312 that is coupled with the landing gear. In step 25 received at a remote operator control system from an aircraft
2118 , the landing gear coupler is moved independent of the regarding at least the operation of one or more landing gear
drive shaft 114 to the deployed position deploying the systems of the aircraft. The information may identify the
landing gear. In many implementations, one or more over- relevant landing gear and provide information about a
ride drivers 316 cause the landing gear coupler to be moved current position of the landing gear, an operating status of
independent of the drive shaft 114 to the deployed position . 30 the landing gear, a confirmation or lack of confirmation from
Further, in some embodiments, the emergency deployment the airplane regarding full deployment, whether a malfunc
system is triggered to override the primary landing gear tion or other error is detected and /or other such information .
drive system and deploy the landing gear. The trigging In step 2214 , information corresponding to the informa
typically includes activating the release link to disengage tion received regarding the landing gear is displayed to the
causing a decoupling between the drive shaft 114 of the 35 operator. The information may be graphically displayed
primary landing gear drive system 110 and the landing gear (e .g ., as a graphical bar indicating an operation of the
coupler 312 coupled with the landing gear. As described landing gear), an animation and /or image may be displayed ,
above and in accordance with some embodiments , the one or more warning indicators and /or notices may be
triggering of the release link 314 allows the override driver displayed and/ or other such production of information .
316 to move the first casing and/or the landing gear coupler 40 Some embodiments may additionally or alternatively gen
312, independent of the drive shaft 114 and primary landing erate audio information , such as an alarm sound, a vocal
gear drive system , toward the deployed position and cause ization of information and the like.
the landing gear 116 to deploy independent of the drive shaft Some embodiments include optional step 2216 , where
and primary landing gear drive system 110 . instructions are received from the operator directing control
Further, the emergency deployment system is typically 45 of one or more cameras on the aircraft to capture video
triggered in response to an instruction to activate the emer - and /or images of one or more of the landing gear of the
gency deployment system . In some embodiments, the aircraft. In optional step 2218, control signals are commu
instruction is received wirelessly from a remote operator of nicated to the aircraft, in response to the camera instructions
the aircraft , and typically in response to the notification of received from the operator, directing one ormore cameras to
the malfunction . In other embodiments , the instruction may 50 be positioned such that one or more of the landing gear . In
be received from the controller of the emergency deploy - optional step 2220 , content from the one or more cameras
ment system and /or a control system on the aircraft that are received from the aircraft and displayed to at least the
evaluates the error condition and/ or malfunction ( e . g ., operator. In step 2222 , an instruction is received from the
through one or more sensors in relation to one or more operator to activate one or more of the landing gear emer
thresholds ). In some implementations, the aircraft control 55 gency deployment systems on the aircraft and to override the
system may issue the emergency deploy command through primary landing gear drive system . In step 2224 , the instruc
an automated process without confirmation or instruction tion is communicated to the aircraft to cause an activation of
from a remote operator. For example , in some embodiments , one or more emergency deployment systems.
the emergency deployment system is at least partially auto The methods , techniques , systems, devices , services ,
mated , where a control system detects the error and/ or 60 servers , sources and the like described herein may be
malfunction of the deployment of the landing gear and utilized , implemented and /or run on many different types of
actuates the emergency deployment system . In other devices and /or systems. Referring to FIG . 23 , there is
instances, however, instructions to deploy and/or confirma- illustrated a system 2300 that may be used for any such
tion is received from a remote operator and/ or a remote implementations, in accordance with some embodiments .
control system that operates separate from the aircraft. For 65 One or more components of the system 2300 may be used
example , in some implementations, a remote operator may for implementing any system , apparatus, controller, control
be provided information regarding the operation of the system ,or devicementioned above or below , or parts of such
 US 9, 988, 143 B2
22
systems, apparatuses or devices, such as for example any of 2314 can be internal, external or a combination of internal
the above or below mentioned control circuitry 318 , landing and external memory . Similarly , some or all of the memory
gear control system , aircraft control system , remote operator 2314 can be internal, external or a combination of internal
control system , operator interface , other such systems, such and external memory of the controller 2312 . The external
as for example sensor circuitry and / or system , surveillance 5 memory can be substantially any relevant memory such as ,
devices and /or systems, surveillance control systems, cam but not limited to , one or more of flash memory secure
eras, and other such devices, circuitry, systems and the like . digital (SD ) card , universal serial bus (USB ) stick or drive ,
However, the use of the system 2300 or any portion thereof other memory cards, hard drive and other such memory or
is certainly not required .
By way of example, the system 2300 may comprise a 10 combinations
code , software
of such memory . The memory 2314 can store
, executables , scripts, data , content, multime
controller or processor module 2312 ,memory 2314 , a user dia content, coordinate
interface 2316 , and one ormore communication links, paths , grams, global positioninginformation , programming , pro
information , surveillance infor
buses or the like 2318 . A power source or supply 2340 is
included or coupled with the system 2300 . The controller mation , instructions, log or history data , operator
2312 can be implemented through one or more processors. 15 information and the like .
microprocessors , central processing unit, logic , local digital Some embodiments further include on or more actuators
storage , firmware and/or other control hardware and /or and /or drivers 2344 , such as primary actuator 112 , landing
software, and may be used to execute or assist in executing8 gear door driver, rudder driver , flaps driver, override driver,
the steps of the methods and techniques described herein , and /or other such relevant drivers or combinations of such
and control various communications, programs, services, 20 drivers . The one or more drivers may be controlled by the
interfaces, landing gear emergency deployment, landing controller 2312 , include an internal controller or control
gear deployment, etc . Further , in some embodiments , the system , receive instructions from a separate controller or
controller 3212 can be part of a control system 2310 and/ or control system and the like .
implemented through one or more processors with access to One or more of the embodiments, methods , processes ,
one or more memory 2314 . The user interface 2316 can 25 approaches, and /or techniques described above or below
allow a user or operator to interact with the system 2300 and may be implemented in one or more computer programs
receive information through the system . In some instances , executable by a processor-based system . By way of
the user interface 2316 includes a display 2322 and /or one example , such a processor based system may comprise the
or more user inputs 2324 , such as a keyboard ,mouse , remote processor based system 2300 , an airplane control system , a
control, track ball , game controller, buttons, touch screen , 30 primary landing gear control system , operator control sys
etc ., which can be part of or wired or wirelessly coupled with tem , etc . Such a computer program may be used for execut
the system 2300 and /or controller 2312. ing various steps and /or features of the above or below
Typically , the system 2300 further includes one or more described methods, processes and /or techniques. That is, the
communication interfaces, ports , transceivers 2320 and the computer program may be adapted to cause or configure a
like allowing the system 2300 to communication over a 35 processor -based system to execute and achieve the functions
communication bus, a distributed network , a local network , described above or below . For example , such computer
the Internet, communication link 2318 , other networks or programsmay be used for implementing any embodiment of
communication channels with other devices and /or other the above or below described steps, processes or techniques
such communications or combinations thereof. Further the for controlling the primary landing gear system , activating
transceiver 2320 can be configured for wired , wireless , 40 the landing gear emergency deployment system , etc . In
optical, fiber optical cable or other such communication some embodiments, program code modules , loops , subrou
configurations or combinations of such communications. In tines, etc ., within the computer program may be used for
some embodiments , the transceiver 2320 is a wireless trans - executing various steps and /or features of the above or
ceiver that coupled with the control circuitry or controller below described methods, processes and/or techniques. In
318 , and forwards at least some of the received communi- 45 some embodiments , the computer program may be stored or
cations to the control circuitry . For example , in some embodied on a computer readable storage or recording
embodiments, the control circuitry is configured to receive medium or media , such as any of the computer readable
an instruction , through the wireless transceiver 2320 , to storage or recording medium or media described herein .
override the primary landing gear drive system 110 and to Accordingly, some embodiments provide a processor or
trigger the release link to disengage the coupling between 50 computer program product comprising a medium configured
the drive shaft 114 and the landing gear coupler 312 in to embody a computer program for input to a processor or
response to the instruction to override the primary landing computer and a computer program embodied in the medium
gear drive system . configured to cause the processor or computer to perform or
The system 2300 comprises an example of a control execute steps comprising any one or more of the steps
and/ or processor -based system with the controller 2312 . 55 involved in any one or more of the embodiments , methods ,
Again , the controller 2312 can be implemented through one processes , approaches , and/ or techniques described herein .
or more processors , controllers, central processing units, For example , some embodiments provide one or more
logic , software and the like . Further, in some implementa computer-readable storage mediums storing one or more
tions the controller 2312 may provide multiprocessor func- computer programs for use with a computer simulation , the
tionality . 60 one or more computer programs configured to cause a
The memory 2314 , which can be accessed by the con - computer and/or processor based system to execute steps
troller 2312 , typically includes one or more processor read - comprising: detecting that a landing gear of an airplane has
able and/ or computer readable media accessed by at least the not fully deployed in response to an instruction to deploy ;
controller 2312 , and can include volatile and /or nonvolatile communicating a notification that the landing gear has not
media , such as RAM , ROM , EEPROM , flash memory 65 fully deployed ; and activating a release link in response to
and /or other memory technology . Further, the memory 2314 an instruction to activate an emergency deployment of the
is shown as internal to a system 2310 ; however, the memory landing gear, such that a landing gear coupler is driven away
 US 9,988,143 B2
23 24
from a drive shaft of a landing gear system and deploying 3 . The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the override driver
the landing gear independent of the drive shaft . is positioned between the first casing and the second casing
Exemplary processes and/ ormethods are representatively such that potential energy of the override driver is config
described above based on one ormore flow diagrams, timing ured to be released in response to the release link disengag
diagrams and/or diagrams representing sequences of actions 5 ing the coupling between the first casing and the second
and /or communications that include one or more steps, casing and to drive the first casing and the landing gear
subprocesses , communications and / or other such represen coupler to the deployed position .
tative divisions of the processes, methods, etc . These steps , 4 . The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first casing is
subprocesses or other such actions can be performed in coaxially aligned with the second casing and configured to
different sequences without departing from the spirit of the 10 move along at least a portion ofa length of the second casing
processes, methods and apparatuses. Additionally or alter as the override driver moves the first casing to the deployed
natively, one or more steps, subprocesses, actions, etc . can
be added , removed or combined in some implementations. position 5 .
.
The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the second casing is
While the invention herein disclosed has been described
by means of specific embodiments, examples and applica - 15 configured to be coaxially aligned with the drive shaft and
tions thereof, numerous modifications and variations could positioned about at least a portion of a length of the drive
be made thereto by those skilled in the art without departing shaft .
6 . The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising :
from the scope of the invention set forth in the claims.
What is claimed is: a locking system secured with the first casing and posi
1 . An apparatus configured to deploy a landing gear of an 20 tioned in contact with at least a portion of an exterior
aircraft, the apparatus comprising: surface of the second casing , wherein the locking
a landing gear coupler configured to couple with the system allows movement between the first casing and
landing gear of the aircraft; the second casing in a first direction as the first casing
a release link coupled with the landing gear coupler and moves toward the deployed position , and resists move
configured to cooperate the landing gear coupler with a 25 ment of the first casing relative to the second casing in
drive shaft of an electro -mechanical primary landing a second direction that is away from the deployed
gear drive system , wherein the drive shaft is config position.
ured , in response to an actuator moving the drive shaft 7 . An apparatus configured to deploy a landing gear of an
during normal intended operation of the primary land - aircraft, the apparatus comprising :
ing gear drive system , to drive the landing gear between 30 a landing gear coupler configured to couple with the
a stowed position and a deployed position ; and landing gear of the aircraft;
an override driver cooperated with the landing gear cou - a release link coupled with the landing gear coupler and
pler; configured to cooperate the landing gear coupler with a
wherein the release link is configured to releasably main drive shaft of an electro -mechanical primary landing
tain a relative position of the landing gear coupler 35 gear drive system , wherein the drive shaft is config
relative to the drive shaft such that a drive force from ured , in response to an actuatormoving the drive shaft
the drive shaft is transferred to the landing gear to effect during normal intended operation of the primary land
movement of the landing gear between the stowed ing gear drive system , to drive the landing gear between
position and the deployed position, and the release link a stowed position and a deployed position ; and
is configured to disengage a coupling between the drive 40 an override driver cooperated with the landing gear cou
shaft and the landing gear coupler such that the landing pler ;
gear coupler is configured to move at least in a direction wherein the release link is configured to releasably main
toward the deployed position independent of the drive tain a relative position of the landing gear coupler
shaft; and relative to the drive shaft such that a drive force from
wherein the override driver is configured to drive the 45 the drive shaft is transferred to the landing gear to effect
landing gear coupler, independent of the drive shaft, to movement of the landing gear between the stowed
force the landing gear to transition to the deployed position and the deployed position , and the release link
position when the release link disengages the coupling is configured to disengage a coupling between the drive
between the landing gear coupler and the drive shaft; shaft and the landing gear coupler such that the landing
a first casing coupled with the landing gear coupler; 50 gear coupler is configured to move at least in a direction
a second casing positioned adjacent the first casing , toward the deployed position independent of the drive
wherein the second casing comprises a drive shaft shaft;
connector configured to secure the second casing with wherein the override driver is configured to drive the
the drive shaft; landing gear coupler, independent of the drive shaft, to
wherein the release link couples between the first casing 55 force the landing gear to transition to the deployed
and the second casing and is configured , when engaged , position when the release link disengages the coupling
to maintain a position of the first casing relative to the between the landing gear coupler and the drive shaft;
second casing, and is configured , when the release link wherein the override driver comprises a first spring posi
disengages, to decouple the first casing from the second tioned to store potential energy while the release link
casing such that the first casing is configured to move 60 maintains the positionalrelationship of the landing gear
relative to the second casing . coupler relative to the drive shaft, and to apply force to
2 . The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the override driver move the landing gear coupler to the deployed position
is cooperated with the first casing and configured to drive the moving the landing gear coupler independent of the
first casing to the deployed position deploying the landing drive shaft;
gear regardless of a position of the drive shaft in response to 65 wherein the override driver comprises a second spring
the release link disengaging the first casing from the second configured to that apply force , in response to the release
casing. link disengaging, to move the landing gear coupler over
 US 9, 988, 143 B2
25
only a first portion of a distance traveled by the landing
gear coupler when moving to the deployed position ;
and
wherein the first spring is configured to apply the first
force to move the landing gear coupler over at least a 5
second portion of the distance traveled by the landing
gear coupler when moving to the deployed position .
8 . The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the release link
comprises an explosive bolt configured to detonate and
break the release link to cause the disengagement of the 10
coupling between the drive shaft and the landing gear
coupler .
9. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising :
a deployment damper cooperated with the landing gear
coupler, wherein the deployment damper is configured 15
to limit a speed at which the landing gear coupler
moves, when driven by the override driver, between the
stowed position and the deployed position.
26
10 . The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising :
a controller coupled with the release link , wherein the
controller is configured to trigger the release link to
disengage the coupling between the drive shaft and the
landing gear coupler such that the override driver is
activated to drive the landing gear coupler to the
deployed position .
11 . The apparatus of claim 10 , further comprising:
a wireless transceiver coupled with the controller ;
wherein the controller is further configured to receive an
instruction , through the wireless transceiver, to over
ride the primary landing gear drive system and to
trigger the release link to disengage the coupling
between the drive shaft and the landing gear coupler in
response to the instruction to override the primary
landing gear drive system .
* * * *