Architecture philosophy in high integrity electromechanical actuators

The most fundamental concept in designing multi-lane smart electromechanical actuation systems, besides meeting performance requirements, is the realization of high integrity. The main aim of this paper is to provide fundamental consolidation designs schemes in different architectures. The paper will also address other fundamentals that are essential at the design stage, such as force fight (between mismatch lanes) reduction through lane equalization, and threshold settings concepts (scheduled and unscheduled). The analysis is based on a 4-lane actuation system capable of driving aerodynamic and inertial loads (with 2 lanes failed) of an aileron control surface similar to that of the Sea Harrier.