Aircraft systems and methods

Abstract

A system includes plural airfoils operably coupled with a rotatable member of an aircraft engine system. The rotatable member is configured to rotate about an axial centerline of the aircraft engine system. The system comprises a feature at one or more exterior locations of an aircraft body. The feature is shaped to alter a flow of air between the aircraft body and the airfoils. Altering the flow of air also one or more of reduces a local load on the airfoils, reduces a local angle of attack of the airfoils, or reduces a noise level that is generated by the aircraft engine system as the rotatable member rotates about the axial centerline of the aircraft engine system relative to the aircraft body not including the feature.

Description

FIELD[0001]The subject matter described herein relates to aircraft systems.BACKGROUND[0002]During operation of a turboprop engine system, the rotation of the propeller airfoils through air generates aerodynamic noise. The aerodynamic noise may be caused by propeller loading due to aircraft installation effects, the distance between the propeller tip and the fuselage, the direction of propagation of the acoustic wave relative to the fuselage or relative to alternative direction, or the like. For example, the aerodynamic noise may be observed as audible tones, “swooshing,” or periodic pulsing sounds that are typically heard in the near field of the engine system (e.g., the area directly around the engine system).[0003]However, under certain conditions, the aerodynamic noise may be heard in the far field (e.g., locations a certain distance away from the turboprop engine). Geographical areas (e.g., cities, counties, states, or the like) may have noise ordinances to which the aircrafts m...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes a system and method for reducing the load on airfoels in an aircraft engine system. A feature is placed on the exterior of the aircraft body to alter the flow of air and reduce the likelihood of noise and vibration from the engine system. This feature is shaped to decrease the load on the airfoils and angle of attack, making them more efficient in their operation. Overall, the technical effect of this patent is to improve the performance and longevity of aircraft engines by reducing the strain on their airfoils.

Problems solved by technology

During operation of a turboprop engine system, the rotation of the propeller airfoils through air generates aerodynamic noise.

The aerodynamic noise may be caused by propeller loading due to aircraft installation effects, the distance between the propeller tip and the fuselage, the direction of propagation of the acoustic wave relative to the fuselage or relative to alternative direction, or the like.

However, under certain conditions, the aerodynamic noise may be heard in the far field (e.g., locations a certain distance away from the turboprop engine).

Geographical areas (e.g., cities, counties, states, or the like) may have noise ordinances to which the aircrafts must adhere to during cruise, take-off, or landing, or passengers in an aircraft system may hear the aerodynamic noise generated by the turboprop engine system and thus, the noise is seen as a nuisance or discomfort to the aircraft passengers.

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