Powered wheels for aircraft

Engineering details, project status, system design and specifications, and test results are presented on a powered-wheel drive system based on the Dynavector rotary actuator. The design and operation of the Dynavector system (with positive displacement very-low-inertia nonrotating vane motor) are reviewed. Feasibility studies, contract data, and findings of braking tests are described. Exploded diagrams of Dynavector details are displayed. Success in using powered wheels in lieu of aircraft main engines for on-ground movements should bring benefits in energy conservation, noise abatement, reduced pollution, and alleviated congestion in the terminal area.