Compact actuation system for flow nozzle

An actuation system for an exhaust nozzle of a gas turbine engine, comprising:

• a plurality of flap assemblies including a plurality of convergent flaps movable between first and second convergent positions and a plurality of divergent flaps movable between first and second divergent positions, each of the plurality of divergent flaps extending from a respective one of the plurality of convergent flaps;
• a first plurality of bell cranks coupled to a respective one of the plurality of divergent flaps;
• and
• a second plurality of bell cranks coupled to a respective one of the plurality of convergent flaps;
• and
• a first actuator configured to rotate a first sync ring about an engine axis of an engine body.

A method of operating an actuation system, comprising:

• rotating a sync ring about a central axis of the sync ring with an actuator, the sync ring being operatively connected to an input arm of a bell crank, the bell crank being rotatable about a radial axis perpendicular to the central axis, wherein a telescoping input is operatively disposed between the actuator and the input arm of the bell crank;
• translating the rotation of the sync ring to a connecting link with an output arm of the bell crank;
• urging the connecting link in an axial direction with the output arm of the bell crank;
• and
• moving a vehicle surface to a radially outward or inward position with the connecting link.