What mechanism ensures that a nose wheel is not turned as it retracts into the wheelwell?

The mechanism responsible for ensuring that a nose wheel does not turn as it retracts into the wheel well is the internal centering cams in the strut. These cams are designed to engage and lock the nose wheel into a straight position when the landing gear is retracted. This is crucial as it prevents any unintended movement of the wheel during the retraction process, which could lead to structural issues or misalignment.

The centering cams operate within the landing gear strut, allowing for smooth and controlled retraction while maintaining the proper orientation of the nose wheel. They ensure that the nose wheel is properly aligned for both aerodynamics and storage in the wheel well, contributing to the overall safety and functionality of the aircraft's landing gear system.