In our research into electric gear pumps and EHA landing gear lifting systems, we are conducting research based on our expertise in gear pump technology to replace engine-driven pumps (piston pumps), which are currently the mainstream hydraulic source for aircraft, with electric gear pumps. Replacing them with electric gear pumps will enable on-demand hydraulic pressure to be supplied to flight control systems and landing system systems that require hydraulic pressure, contributing to the energy efficiency of the aircraft. Furthermore, gear pumps have a simple structure, which contributes to weight reduction and high reliability, helping to reduce aircraft operating costs.
We are also conducting research and development of electro-hydrostatic actuators (EHA) driven by dedicated electric gear pumps, making it possible to design optimal EHAs to meet the landing gear extension/retraction requirements specific to each aircraft. We are currently conducting joint research and development with Airbus on landing gear extension/retraction EHAs, with the aim of installing them in next-generation electric aircraft. These results were obtained as a result of work commissioned by New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).