초록 ▼

Systems and methods are provided in which an electrical control system independently effects acceleration of both driven and driving elements of a clutch to engage each other. In preferred embodiments the clutch is not a friction clutch, but a dog clutch, and forms part of a drive drain of a rotorcr

Systems and methods are provided in which an electrical control system independently effects acceleration of both driven and driving elements of a clutch to engage each other. In preferred embodiments the clutch is not a friction clutch, but a dog clutch, and forms part of a drive drain of a rotorcraft. A second clutch can be used, along with a mechanical interlock to prevent simultaneous engagement of the clutches. Speeds of the driven and driving elements can be sensed, and altered using at least one of a rotor, a brake, a generator, an electric motor, and a combustion motor. In rotorcraft embodiments, the gearbox can have a neutral condition in which no power is transmitted from the engine to the rotor.

대표청구항 ▼

What is claimed is: 1. An aircraft comprising:a rotor that provides at least one of lift and thrust to an airframe;a gearbox that transfers power from an engine to the rotor, and that includes a neutral condition in which no power is transmitted from the engine to the rotor;the gearbox further havin

What is claimed is: 1. An aircraft comprising:a rotor that provides at least one of lift and thrust to an airframe;a gearbox that transfers power from an engine to the rotor, and that includes a neutral condition in which no power is transmitted from the engine to the rotor;the gearbox further having at least first and second output ratios that are shifted using a dog clutch; andfurther comprising an electrical control system that controls a first motive source that accelerates a speed of the driving element, and a second motive source that accelerates a speed of the driven element, such that the first and second rotational speeds are closely matched.