Keywords
Citation
(2002), "Aircraft wheel rotator", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 74 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/aeat.2002.12774bad.005
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2002, MCB UP Limited
Aircraft wheel rotator
Keywords: Patents, Aircraft
In GB Patent GB 2353258 Simon Groves describes an aircraft wheel rotator. This is connected to the landing gear of an aircraft and comprises a shroud plate defining a diffuser and vanes attached to or forming part of a wheel rim. When the undercarriage is lowered, the shroud plate deflects the oncoming air over the vanes to cause the wheels to rotate. The speed of rotation can be adjusted by altering the position of the deflector plate. The position of the deflector plate and hence the speed of rotation of the wheels with respect to the oncoming air can be adjusted mechanically and locked in position. Alternatively, the position of the deflector plate can be altered automatically and the wheel speed monitored and controlled so that speed of the periphery of the tyre is equal to the runway speed when landing.