Session: 07-08-03: Multibody Dynamic Systems and Applications III

Paper Number: 145414

145414 - Sensitivity Analysis for the Effect of Misalignments on Performance Parameters of Harmonic Reducers 

The rapid advancement of urban air mobility (UAM) technologies marks the start of a new era in transportation, offering efficient and sustainable aerial mobility solutions made up for urban environments. At the core of this technological progression lies the emergence of compact electromechanical actuators with rotary output as pivotal enablers for UAM systems. These actuators play a crucial role in precisely controlling various aerial vehicle components, providing agile and responsive mechanical motion.

In the realm of UAM, electromechanical actuators offer several advantages over traditional hydraulic or pneumatic systems, characterized by heightened efficiency, accelerated response times, and reduced maintenance requirements. These attributes make them particularly suitable for applications where compactness, reliability, and precision are important, such as electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, urban air taxis, and autonomous drones.

Within the intricate architecture of electromechanical actuator (EMA), the harmonic reducer emerges as a fundamental component, bearing profound significance not only in terms of performance but also from a reliability point of view. Also known as a strain wave gear or harmonic drive, this compact yet robust mechanism is engineered to achieve high reduction ratios with minimal backlash and substantial torque transmission capabilities. Its pivotal role lies in efficiently transferring torque and motion while upholding precision and minimizing mechanical losses, rendering it indispensable in electromechanical actuation systems.

The reliability of electromechanical actuators, and by extension, harmonic reducers, assumes paramount importance in UAM applications, where safety and dependability are fundamental requirements. Any instance of failure, malfunction, or non-nominal behavior within these systems can yield severe consequences, not only in terms of human safety but also concerning public trust and regulatory compliance. To enhance reliability, the redundancy principle is applied, involving backup components or systems to mitigate the impact of failures, thus ensuring consistent performance under specified conditions.

Furthermore, the application of Prognostics and Health Management (PHM) logics presents a promising avenue for enhancing the reliability of flight control systems. PHM integrates data-driven algorithms and predictive analytics to assess the health status of system components, anticipate potential failures, and proactively schedule maintenance interventions. By continuously monitoring critical component performance and condition, PHM systems enable early detection of anomalies or degradation, facilitating timely corrective actions to be taken before failures occur. However, successful PHM implementation relies on robust and accurate models capable of capturing the complex dynamics of flight control systems.

This paper undertakes to explore the sensitivity of performance parameters, as the efficiency, of harmonic reducers to misalignment, aiming to provide actionable insights for enhancing the reliability and efficiency of electromechanical actuation systems in UAM applications. Through meticulous examination of harmonic reducer dynamics and their implications for system reliability, this study seeks to contribute to the advancement of electromechanical actuation technologies, thereby charting a course towards safer and more dependable urban air mobility systems.

Presenting Author: Roberto Guida Politecnico di Torino

Presenting Author Biography: Roberto Guida, currently pursuing his PhD in Mechanical Engineering at Politecnico di Torino, specializes in flight control systems. His research is centered on advancing electromechanical actuators, urban air mobility systems, and harmonic reducers to optimize performance and efficiency in aerospace applications. With a focus on enhancing safety and sustainability, the aim of the research is to contribute significantly to the development of innovative air transportation solutions, shaping the future of urban mobility.

Authors:

Roberto Guida Politecnico di Torino
Antonio Carlo Bertolino Politecnico di Torino
Andrea De Martin Politecnico di Torino
Massimo Sorli Politecnico di Torino