Export guide vane

Abstract

A ductless single-fan engine includes a housing having one or more fan blades coupled to the housing and configured to rotate circumferentially. The engine has one or more outlet guide vanes coupled to the housing. Each of the one or more guide vanes has a leading edge portion with a variable leading edge. The engine has one or more actuators coupled to each of the one or more outlet guide vanes. The one or more actuators are configured to control the variable leading edge of the corresponding outlet guide vane. The variable leading edge can be controlled to change the pitch, warp, tilt angle, or sweep angle of the corresponding outlet guide vane.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an outlet guide vane. More particularly, this disclosure relates to a variable outlet guide vane for a ductless single-fan engine. Background Technology

[0002] A ductless single-fan engine may include fan blades and an outlet guide vane. During operation, the fan blades rotate about the engine's centerline. Acoustic noise is generated as air passes through the rotating fan blades and the stationary outlet guide vane. The outlet guide vane is configured to pivot relative to the nacelle to which it is attached in order to optimize aerodynamic performance and noise across operating conditions. Attached Figure Description

[0003] The features and advantages of this disclosure will become apparent from the following more particular description of various exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein similar figures generally indicate the same, functionally similar and / or structurally similar elements.

[0004] Figure 1A A schematic perspective view of a ductless single-fan engine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0005] Figure 1B An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 1A The ductless single-fan engine along Figure 1A A schematic cross-sectional view taken from the centerline AA.

[0006] Figure 2 A schematic perspective view of a ductless single-fan engine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0007] Figure 3 An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 1A The ductless single-fan engine along Figure 1A A schematic partial cross-sectional view taken from the center line AA in the diagram.

[0008] Figure 4A A schematic partial perspective view of a ductless single-fan engine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0009] Figure 4B An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 4A A schematic perspective view of the outlet guide vanes on a ductless single-fan engine.

[0010] Figure 5A A schematic partial perspective view of a ductless single-fan engine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0011] Figure 5BAn embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 5A A schematic partial perspective view of the outlet guide vanes on a ductless single-fan engine.

[0012] Figure 5C An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 5A A schematic diagram of the outlet guide vanes on a ductless single-fan engine.

[0013] Figure 6 A schematic partial perspective view of an outlet guide vane for a ductless single-fan engine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0014] Figure 7 A schematic partial perspective view of an outlet guide vane for a ductless single-fan engine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0015] Figure 8 A schematic partial perspective view of an outlet guide vane for a ductless single-fan engine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0016] Figure 9A A schematic partial perspective view of an outlet guide vane for a ductless single-fan engine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0017] Figure 9B An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 9A An enlarged schematic diagram of a portion of the outlet guide vane.

[0018] Figure 10A and Figure 10B A schematic diagram of a shape memory alloy for an outlet guide vane according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0019] Figure 11A An elevation view of a schematic exit guide vane in a first state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0020] Figure 11B An elevation view of a schematic exit guide vane in a second state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0021] Figure 11C An elevation view of a schematic exit guide vane in a second state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0022] Figure 12A A schematic partial perspective view of an outlet guide vane in a first state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0023] Figure 12B A schematic partial perspective view of an outlet guide vane in a second state according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0024] Figure 13 A schematic partial perspective view of a ductless single-fan engine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0025] Figure 14 A schematic partial perspective view of a ductless single-fan engine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0026] Figure 15 A schematic partial side view of a ductless single-fan engine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0027] Figure 16A The illustration shows a cruise condition according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the outlet guide vanes of a ductless single-fan engine.

[0028] Figure 16B The illustration shows a takeoff condition according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 15 A schematic diagram of the outlet guide vanes of a ductless single-fan engine.

[0029] Figure 17 An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 15 A schematic front view of the outlet guide vanes of a ductless single-fan engine.

[0030] Figure 18 An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 15 A schematic front view of the outlet guide vanes of a ductless single-fan engine.

[0031] Figure 19 A schematic partial side view of a ductless single-fan engine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0032] Figure 20 An embodiment according to this disclosure is shown. Figure 19 A schematic side view of the outlet guide vanes of a ductless single-fan engine. Detailed Implementation

[0033] The features, advantages, and embodiments of this disclosure will be apparent or obvious upon consideration of the following detailed description, accompanying drawings, and claims. Furthermore, it should be understood that the following detailed description is exemplary and intended to provide further explanation, without limiting the scope of the claimed disclosure.

[0034] Various embodiments are discussed in detail below. Although specific embodiments are discussed, they are merely for illustrative purposes. Those skilled in the art will recognize that other components and constructions can be used without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0035] This disclosure provides an exit guide vane (OGV) that can be controlled to change the relative position of the OGV tip with respect to the rest of the OGV and / or the relative position of the OGV with respect to the nacelle to which the OGV is attached. The exit guide vane of this disclosure allows for variable positioning of portions of the OGV along a given axis. The exit guide vane of this disclosure can be controlled to have a variable sweep angle, a variable inclination angle or dihedral angle, a variable warp / twist, a variable pitch, or any combination thereof. Actuation of the variable control of the exit guide vane can be provided by an actuation device such as mechanical actuation, electrical actuation, or by using shape memory alloys, or any combination thereof.

[0036] Figure 1A and Figure 1B A schematic diagram of an engine 10, such as, for example, a ductless single-fan (USF) engine 10, is shown. The engine 10 may include a housing 13. The housing 13 may be formed by a nacelle 12 and a hubcap 18. The nacelle 12 and / or hubcap 18 may house internal components of the engine 10. For example, the nacelle 12 may house a torque-generating system 30 coupled to a shaft 28. The torque-generating system 30 and shaft 28 may be configured to operate (e.g., rotate) the hubcap 18, to which one or more fan blades 22 are coupled. The nacelle 12 may house other components not shown, such as, for example, a gear system, a combustion system, and other known parts of the engine 10. The nacelle 12 may include an engine inlet 14 and an engine outlet 16.

[0037] Continue to refer to Figure 1A and Figure 1B The nacelle 12 can be coupled to the hub cap 18 to form a housing 13. The forward end or front portion of the housing 13 may include one or more fan blades 22 and one or more outlet guide vanes 24. The hub cap 18 may include one or more fan blades 22 coupled to the fan hub 20. The hub cap 18 is rotatable relative to the nacelle 12. One or more outlet guide vanes (OGVs) 24 may be coupled to the nacelle 12. During operation, one or more fan blades 22 (due to their coupling to the hub cap 18) may rotate circumferentially about the engine centerline 26. The nacelle 12 may be stationary such that one or more outlet guide vanes 24 do not rotate about the engine centerline 26 and are therefore stationary relative to rotation about the engine centerline 26. Although one or more outlet guide vanes 24 are stationary relative to the engine centerline 26, one or more outlet guide vanes 24 may be positioned relative to the nacelle 12, for example, in... Figure 1B Rotate or move in direction A.

[0038] During the operation of engine 10, air can be drawn from... Figure 1B left side Figure 1BThe airflow flows to the right. A portion of the airflow may pass through one or more fan blades 22 and one or more outlet guide vanes 24. A portion of the airflow may enter the nacelle 12 through the engine inlet 14 to mix with the fuel flow for combustion. As mentioned, one or more outlet guide vanes 24 may be movable relative to the nacelle 12 to direct the airflow in a particular direction. Each of the one or more outlet guide vanes 24 may be movable to adjust the inclination angle, pitch, sweep angle, or any combination thereof of the respective one or more outlet guide vanes 24.

[0039] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an engine 10a, such as, for example, a ductless single fan (USF) engine 10a, is shown. Engine 10a may include... Figure 1A and Figure 1B All of its features. However, in Figure 2 In this housing 13, one or more fan blades 22 and one or more outlet guide vanes 24 may be located on the rear end or rear portion of the housing 13. For example, one or more fan blades 22 and one or more outlet guide vanes 24 may be coupled to the rear portion of the housing 13. Figure 2 Engine 10a can have the same Figure 1A , Figure 1B and Figure 3 The engine 10 has similar components and operation. In addition, as mentioned above, one or more outlet guide vanes 24 may be stationary, or one or more outlet guide vanes 24 may rotate in the opposite direction to one or more fan blades 22, such that one or more outlet guide vanes 24 are counter-rotating rotors in a counter-rotating open rotor (CROR) engine.

[0040] Reference Figure 3 It shows along Figure 1A A partial cross-sectional view of the engine taken from the centerline AA. Figure 3 The partial cross-sectional view of the engines shown illustrates a first engine 100 above engine centerline 26 and a second engine 10 below engine centerline 26. A single engine may not include both the first engine 100 and the second engine 10. Instead, the engines are shown in the same figure for ease of understanding.

[0041] The second engine 10 may include a hub cover having a fan hub 20 and a nacelle 12. The fan hub 20 and the nacelle 12 may be connected to... Figure 1A and Figure 1B The fan hub 20 is the same as or similar to the nacelle 12. One or more fan blades 22 may be coupled to the fan hub 20, only one of which is shown. One or more fan blades 22 may be coupled to... Figure 1A and Figure 1BOne or more fan blades 22 are identical or similar. One or more outlet guide vanes 24 may be coupled to the nacelle 12, only one of which is shown. One or more outlet guide vanes 24 may be coupled with... Figure 1A and Figure 1B One or more outlet guide vanes 24 are identical or similar. The second engine 10 may also include an outlet guide vane control device 32. The outlet guide vane control device 32 allows control over the relative positioning and / or orientation of one or more outlet guide vanes 24 relative to the nacelle 12. For example, one or more outlet guide vanes 24 may have pitch axis and / or pitch settings that can be controlled by the outlet guide vane control device 32.

[0042] The first engine 100 may include a rotor hub cover having a fan hub 120 and a nacelle 112. The fan hub 120 and the nacelle 112 may be connected to... Figure 1A and Figure 1B The fan hub 20 and nacelle 12 are identical or similar. One or more fan blades 122 may be coupled to the fan hub 120, only one of which is shown. One or more fan blades 122 may be identical or similar to one or more fan blades 22. One or more outlet guide vanes 124 may be coupled to the nacelle 112, only one of which is shown. One or more outlet guide vanes 124 may be identical or similar to one or more outlet guide vanes 24. In the first engine 100, the outlet guide vane control device 32 may be omitted. If the outlet guide vane control device 32 is omitted, other control devices may be provided that provide relative positioning, orientation, or other shaping of one or more outlet guide vanes 124 relative to the nacelle 112, as will be discussed in more detail below. When the outlet guide vane control device 32 is omitted, the removal of the components of the outlet guide vane control device 32 may allow additional space for packaging and / or the total length L of the engine. Figure 1B The reduction of ) (e.g., by reducing the length or distance d of the cabin 112) thereby improves the overall fuel efficiency of the aircraft propulsion system.

[0043] Figure 4A and Figure 4B It shows a general similarity Figure 3 An exemplary outlet guide vane 224 on engine 200 of engine 100. The outlet guide vane 224 may be omitted. Figure 3 The outlet guide vane control device 32 is used for the outlet guide vane. Figure 4A and Figure 4B The engine 200 may be the same as or similar to any engine described herein. The engine 200 may include a housing 113. The housing 113 may include a fan hub 120 and a nacelle 112. The fan hub 120 may attach one or more fan blades 122 to a hub cover. Although... Figure 4A and Figure 4B Only a portion of the fan hub 120 and nacelle 112, as well as just one fan blade 122 and one outlet guide vane 224, are shown. However, the engine 200 and related components may extend circumferentially around the engine centerline 26, such as... Figure 1A As shown in the image.

[0044] Continue to refer to Figure 4A and Figure 4B One or more outlet guide vanes 224 can be Figure 3 The exit guide vane 124. Each of one or more exit guide vanes 224 may include a leading edge 224a and a trailing edge 224b. The exit guide vane 224 may include a body having a first portion 230 and a second portion 232. The first portion 230 may be the main portion 230, and the second portion 232 may be the leading edge portion 232. The leading edge portion 232 may be separated from the main portion 230 over its entire span. The leading edge portion 232 may be movable relative to the main portion 230 along a movement axis 229. The leading edge 224a may be defined on the leading edge portion 232. The leading edge 224a may define an edge of the exit guide vane 224 that the airflow first encounters or approaches before passing over the surfaces of the exit guide vane 224 (e.g., the main portion 230 and the leading edge portion 232) and exits the exit guide vane 224 at the trailing edge 224b. The trailing edge 224b may be defined on the main portion 230. The outlet guide vane 224 can extend from the top surface 227 to the bottom surface 225.

[0045] During operation, the leading edge portion 232 can be partially moved and / or rotated in the direction of arrow A. The leading edge portion 232 is movable and / or rotatable between a first position 232a and a second position 232b, as illustrated by the dashed line. The leading edge portion 232 is movable to any incremental position between the first position 232a and the second position 232b. The leading edge portion 232 can be moved by... Figure 4A and Figure 4B An invisible actuator actuates the blade to move in the direction of arrow A, as will be described in more detail below. The leading edge portion 232 is movable + / - 25 degrees in direction A from its initial position. Therefore, the pitch of the leading edge portion 232 can be controlled in the exit guide vane 224.

[0046] Still refer to Figure 4A and Figure 4B The second part, 232, can be in the direction y ( Figure 4BThe second part 232 extends a predetermined distance from the leading edge 224a toward the trailing edge 224b. The distance between the leading edge 224a and the trailing edge 224b defines the chord of the exit guide vane 224. The second part 232 may define a variable leading edge 224a extending between 5% and 50% of the chord length. In some examples, the second part 232 may define a variable leading edge 224a extending between 5% and 70% of the chord length. The second part 232 may be in the direction x ( Figure 4B The second part 232 extends a predetermined distance from the top surface 227 toward the bottom surface 225. The second part 232 may extend the entire or complete distance from the top surface 227 to the bottom surface 225, such as... Figure 4B As shown in the diagram. Alternatively, the second portion 232 may extend only a portion of that distance in the x-direction from either or both of the top surface 227 and the bottom surface 225. The distance between the top surface 227 and the bottom surface 225 may define the wingspan of the exit guide vane 224. The second portion 232 may extend a portion or all of the wingspan length of the exit guide vane 224 and a portion of the chord length.

[0047] Figure 5A and Figure 5B It shows a general similarity Figure 3 An exemplary outlet guide vane 324 on engine 300 of engine 100. The outlet guide vane 324 may be omitted. Figure 3 The outlet guide vane control device 32 is used for the outlet guide vane. Figure 5A and Figure 5B The engine 300 may be the same as or similar to any engine described herein. The engine 300 may include a housing 113. The housing 113 may include a fan hub 120 and a nacelle 112. The fan hub 120 may connect one or more fan blades 122 to a hub cover 18. Figure 1A Although only a portion of the fan hub 120 and nacelle 112, as well as only one fan blade 122 and one outlet guide vane 224, are shown, the engine 100 and related components may extend circumferentially around the engine centerline 26, such as regarding Figure 1A As shown.

[0048] Continue to refer to Figure 5A and Figure 5BEach of one or more outlet guide vanes 324 may include a leading edge 324a and a trailing edge 324b. Each of one or more outlet guide vanes 324 may include a body having a first portion 330 and a second portion 332. The first portion 330 may be a main portion 330, and the second portion 332 may be a leading edge portion 332. The leading edge portion 332 may be separated from a portion of the main portion 330 by its span. The leading edge portion 332 may be movable relative to the main portion 330 along a movement axis 329. The leading edge 324a may be defined on the leading edge portion 332 and the main portion 330. The leading edge 324a may define an edge of the outlet guide vane 324 that the airflow first encounters or approaches before passing over the surfaces of the outlet guide vane 324 (e.g., the main portion 330 and the leading edge portion 332) and exits the outlet guide vane 324 at the trailing edge 324b. The trailing edge 324b may be defined on the main portion 330. The outlet guide vane 324 can extend from the top surface 327 to the bottom surface 325.

[0049] During operation, the leading edge portion 332 can move in the direction of arrow A. The leading edge portion 332 is movable between a first position 332a and a second position 332b. The leading edge portion 332 is movable to any incremental position between the first position 332a and the second position 332b. The leading edge portion 332 can be moved by... Figure 5A and Figure 5B An invisible actuator actuates the blade to move in the direction of arrow A, as will be described in more detail below. The leading edge portion 332 is movable + / - 25 degrees in direction A from its initial position. Therefore, the pitch of the leading edge portion 332 can be controlled in the exit guide vane 324.

[0050] Figure 5C A schematic diagram of the exit guide vane 324 is shown. A second portion 332 may extend a predetermined distance in the x-direction from the leading edge 324a toward the trailing edge 324b. For example, the second portion 332 may extend along the chord length of the exit guide vane 324 from the leading edge 324a to point x1 or point x2, or to any point along the chord length of the exit guide vane 324. The second portion 332 may define a variable leading edge 324a extending between 5% and 50% of the chord length. In some examples, the second portion 332 may define a variable leading edge 324a extending between 5% and 70% of the chord length. The second portion 332 may extend in the y-direction from the top surface 327 toward the bottom surface 325. Figure 5B The second part 332 may extend a portion of the wingspan of the exit guide vane 324 (e.g., a distance along the y direction) and a portion of the chord length (e.g., a distance along the x direction).

[0051] In Figure 1 to Figure 5CDuring operation of the engine shown, where, for simplicity, reference is made to engine 10 in this paragraph, air flows from the front end of engine 10 (near the hub cap 18) toward the rear end of engine 10 (near the engine outlet 16). Figure 1A and Figure 1B Acoustic noise can be generated by the interaction of airflow passing through one or more fan blades (rotating about the engine centerline 26) and one or more outlet guide vanes (stationary relative to the rotation about the engine centerline 26). To reduce this noise, each of the one or more outlet guide vanes is configured to move relative to the nacelle. This movement can be accomplished by one or more of the actuation devices described herein.

[0052] During flight, different engine operating conditions result in different noise conditions. Therefore, each phase of flight can lead to a separate state or position of one or more exit guide vanes. For example, during cruise compared to takeoff, one or more exit guide vanes may be at different angles, not only to achieve different engine performance and airflow, but also to mitigate acoustic noise generated at each phase of flight. Therefore, each of the one or more exit guide vanes can be controlled individually and independently relative to the remaining exit guide vanes. That is, each of the one or more exit guide vanes can be controlled to an angle independent of the remaining one or more exit guide vanes. In some examples, one or more exit guide vanes can be controlled simultaneously to perform the same or different movements. In some examples, one or more or all of the exit guide vanes can be controlled.

[0053] Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Figure 9A , Figure 9B , Figure 10A and Figure 10B An exemplary actuation device is shown. The actuation device may allow relative movement of a leading edge portion (e.g., leading edge portion 232 or leading edge portion 332) relative to a main portion (e.g., main portion 230 or main portion 330). Exemplary actuation devices for providing variable pitch, tilt angle, sweep angle, and warp / twist for one or more outlet guide vanes may include shape memory alloys, mechanical actuation, electrical actuation, bimetallic actuation, or any combination thereof.

[0054] Figure 6An exemplary outlet guide vane 424 is shown. Outlet guide vane 424 may be identical or similar to outlet guide vane 224 and / or outlet guide vane 324. Outlet guide vane 424 may include a leading edge portion 432 and a main portion 430. Outlet guide vane 424 may extend from a leading edge 424a to a trailing edge 424b. Outlet guide vane 424 may extend from a top surface 427 to a bottom surface 425. As discussed with respect to outlet guide vanes 224, 324, the leading edge portion 432 is movable relative to the main portion 430 along a movement axis 429.

[0055] Continue to refer to Figure 6 The outlet guide vane 424 may include an actuation device 434. The actuation device 434 may include a mechanical actuation device. For example, the actuation device 434 may include a hinge. For example, the actuation device 434 may include a pin 436 connecting the main portion 430 and the leading edge portion 432. The pin 436 may serve as a pivot axis for the leading edge portion 432. Therefore, the leading edge portion 432 is capable of being pivoted relative to the main portion 430 in direction A (e.g., Figure 4B and Figure 5B It can rotate, pivot, or otherwise move.

[0056] Figure 7 An exemplary outlet guide vane 524 is shown. Outlet guide vane 524 may be identical or similar to outlet guide vane 224 and / or outlet guide vane 324. Outlet guide vane 524 may include a leading edge portion 532 and a main portion 530. Outlet guide vane 524 may extend from a leading edge 524a to a trailing edge 524b. Outlet guide vane 524 may extend from a top surface 527 to a bottom surface 525. As discussed with respect to outlet guide vanes 224, 324, the leading edge portion 532 is movable relative to the main portion 530 along a rotation axis 529.

[0057] Continue to refer to Figure 7 The outlet guide vane 524 may include an actuator 534. The actuator 534 may include an electric actuator. For example, the actuator 534 may include a motor 538 and a cable 536. When voltage is applied to the motor 538, the motor 538 is able to move relative to the main portion 430 in direction A (e.g., ...). Figure 4B and Figure 5B ) rotate, pivot, or otherwise move the leading edge portion 532.

[0058] Figure 8An exemplary portion of the outlet guide vane 624 is shown. The outlet guide vane 624 may be identical or similar to outlet guide vanes 224 and / or 324. The outlet guide vane 624 may include a leading edge portion 632 and a main portion 630. The outlet guide vane 624 may extend from the leading edge 624a to a trailing edge (not shown). The outlet guide vane 624 may extend from a top surface 627 to a bottom surface 625. As discussed with respect to outlet guide vanes 224, 324, the leading edge portion 632 may be movable relative to the main portion 630 along a movement axis 629. The outlet guide vane 624 may include an actuation device 634. The actuation device 634 may be a torque tube configured to transfer rotation to the leading edge portion 632 such that the leading edge portion 632 relative to the main portion 630 in direction A (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 4B and Figure 5B (as shown) rotate, pivot, or otherwise move.

[0059] Figure 9A and Figure 9B An exemplary outlet guide vane 724 is shown. Outlet guide vane 724 may be identical or similar to outlet guide vane 224 and / or outlet guide vane 324. Outlet guide vane 724 may include a leading edge portion 732 and a main portion 730. Outlet guide vane 724 may extend from the leading edge 724a to the trailing edge 724b. As discussed with respect to outlet guide vanes 224, 324, the leading edge portion 732 may be movable relative to the main portion 730 along a movement axis.

[0060] Continue to refer to Figure 9A and Figure 9B The outlet guide vane 724 may include an actuator 734. The actuator 734 may include a highly conductive metal 736. The highly conductive metal 736 may be a bimetallic metal, through which temperature changes the state of the metal. For example, the actuator 734 may include two highly conductive metals 736 that expand at different rates. The highly conductive metal 736 may be heated to cause deflection of the leading edge 724a, thereby changing the warping of the leading edge 724a. In some examples, the actuator 734 may include separate bimetallic arrangements to individually change both the leading edge warping and the trailing edge warping. The leading edge 724a and the trailing edge 724b may deflect in the direction of arrow A. Figure 9A and Figure 9B In one embodiment, the leading edge portion 732 may be formed of titanium, and the main portion 730 may be formed of a composite. Excessive cooling allows the leading edge 724a and trailing edge 724b to move toward each other. Less cooling (i.e., reduced heating) allows the outlet guide vane 724 to move to an intermediate position.

[0061] Now for reference Figure 10A and Figure 10BAnother exemplary actuation device may include a shape memory alloy. The shape memory alloy may have a first state 800a at low temperature. Figure 10A ) and the second state 800b at high temperature ( Figure 10B ), Figure 10A The temperature of the actuator shown is related to Figure 10B The actuator shown has a relatively low temperature, and vice versa. Figure 10A In the first state 800a, the exemplary shape memory alloy sheet 806 may include a first end 802 and a second end 804, each in a first position. When the shape memory alloy sheet 806 is... Figure 10A Heating at low temperature to Figure 10B At high temperatures, ends 802 and 804 can move toward each other in direction B. This movement can result in a second state 800b at high temperatures. The shape memory alloy sheet 806 can also be... Figure 10B High temperature cooled to Figure 10A The low temperature. When cooled, ends 802 and 804 move away from each other in a direction opposite to direction B. Therefore, the shape memory alloy allows for repeated movement between a first state 800a and a second state 800b. In embodiments of this disclosure, the shape memory alloy may be included within the outlet guide vane to allow control of the warping of the outlet guide vane, as will be described in more detail below.

[0062] Figures 11A to 11C An exemplary implementation of a shape memory alloy as an actuation device is shown. The outlet guide vane 924 may include a leading edge portion 932 having a leading edge 924a and a main portion 930 having a trailing edge 924b. The outlet guide vane 924 may include an actuation device 934. The actuation device 934 may be embedded within the outlet guide vane 924. Although in Figure 11A As can be seen in the surface view, the actuator 934 can be embedded so that it is not visible from the surface view of the outlet guide vane 924. The actuator 934 can be a shape memory alloy. That is, the shape memory alloy can be embedded within the outlet guide vane 924.

[0063] Continue to refer to Figures 11A to 11C In operation, the actuator 934 can be heated to move its leading edge 924a and trailing edge 924b toward each other in direction B. Heating of the actuator 934, and therefore of the shape memory alloy, can be passive or active. That is, for example, heating can occur at ambient temperature (e.g., passive heating) or can be electrically supplied (e.g., active heating). Therefore, when heated, the outlet guide vane 924 can move from... Figure 11B The first state 900a moves to Figure 11BThe second state 900b. This increases the warping of the outlet guide vane 924. Less heating can move the outlet guide vane 924 to an intermediate position between the first state 900a and the second state 900b. When the actuator 934 as Figure 11C When the outlet guide vane 924 is arranged along the suction side surface as shown, it can be extended from the outlet guide vane 924 when heated. Figure 11C The first state 900a moves to Figure 11C The second state, 900b. This reduces the warpage of the outlet guide vane 924. (As...) Figure 11B As shown, the leading edge 924a and trailing edge 924b can move in direction C toward the center of the exit guide vane 924, thus increasing airfoil warping.

[0064] The actuator 934 can be cooled to move its leading edge 924a and trailing edge 924b away from each other in a direction opposite to direction B. Cooling of the actuator 934, and therefore of the shape memory alloy, can be passive or active. That is, for example, cooling can occur at ambient temperature (e.g., passive cooling) or can be electrically provided (e.g., active cooling). Ambient temperature can be a temperature at high altitudes (e.g., during cruise) and / or a temperature closer to ground level (e.g., during takeoff and landing). Therefore, when cooled, the exit guide vane 924 can move from a second state 900b to a first state 900a. Although in Figure 11A The actuation device 934 (and therefore the shape memory alloy) is shown along the front surface of the outlet guide vane 924, but the actuation device 934 may be positioned along the rear surface, within the middle portion of the outlet guide vane 924, along the front surface, or in any combination thereof.

[0065] Figure 12A and Figure 12B Another exemplary implementation of a shape memory alloy as an actuation device is shown. The outlet guide vane 1024 may include a leading edge 1024a and a trailing edge 1024b. The outlet guide vane 1024 may include an actuation device, which may include one or both of actuation device 1031 and actuation device 1033. Although in Figure 12A As can be seen, but actuators 1031 and / or 1033 may be embedded such that they are not visible from the surface view of the outlet guide vane 1024. Actuators 1031 and 1033 may be shape memory alloys. That is, shape memory alloys may be embedded within the outlet guide vane 1024. Actuator 1031 may be arbitrarily embedded in a three-dimensional orientation extending from the leading edge to the trailing edge in a direction from the upper surface 1027 toward the root section (not shown), the root section being arranged to achieve the desired three-dimensional displacement of the vane structure. Actuator 1033 may be embedded in an orientation extending from the trailing edge to the leading edge in a direction from the upper surface 1027 toward the lower surface (not shown).

[0066] In operation, the actuators 1031 and 1033 can be individually actuated to control the movement of the leading edge 1024a and the trailing edge 1024b at the upper surface 1027. For example... Figure 12B As shown, when the shape memory alloy is activated (e.g., heated and / or cooled), point 1032 on the leading edge 1024a of the upper surface 1027 and point 1036 on the trailing edge 1024b of the upper surface 1027 can move in direction D. In this way, the outlet guide vane 1024 can move from a first state 1000a to a second state 1000b. Although shown near the upper surface 1027, the actuators 1031 and 1033 (and therefore the shape memory alloys) can be positioned near the bottom surface (not shown). The shape memory alloys of the actuators 1031 and 1033 can be the same or different, and can have the same or different properties, such that the movement of points 1032 and 1036 occurs in similar or dissimilar ways. This can result in tip twisting or tip warping of the outlet guide vane 1024.

[0067] refer to Figure 13 and Figure 14 The exit guide vanes of this disclosure are controllable relative to the nacelle 112. First, refer to... Figure 13 The exit guide vane 1124 can move from a first position 1100a to a second position 1100b, and to any position in between. The exit guide vane 1124 can move along direction A, causing the sweep angle of the exit guide vane 1124 to vary. The axis of rotation R of the exit guide vane 1124 can extend in a direction perpendicular to the page. The sweep angle can vary between -10 degrees and +45 degrees. The first position 1100a can be the cruise position, and the second position 1100b can be the takeoff position. The sweep angle can change the degree to which the exit guide vane "stands" or the degree of verticality of the exit guide vane 1124 relative to the nacelle 112. The sweep angle can be changed at any time during flight. For example, if a wake impacts the exit guide vane 1124, the exit guide vane 1124 can be controlled to sweep the blades and reduce the radial distance from the tip to the axis of rotation, thereby reducing or eliminating noise generated by the wake and tip vortices associated with the upstream fan blades.

[0068] refer to Figure 14 The outlet guide vane 1224 can move from a first position 1200a to a second position 1200b, and to any position in between. The outlet guide vane 1224 can move along direction A, causing the tilt angle or dihedral angle setting of the outlet guide vane 1224 to vary. The tilt angle can vary between -45 degrees and +45 degrees. The rotation axis R of the outlet guide vane 1224 is... Figure 14 As shown in the diagram, the tilt angle of the outlet guide vane 1224 can be controlled to reduce acoustic noise.

[0069] Figures 15 to 18 The diagram illustrates a view of the tilt angle control of the outlet guide vane 1324 in a ductless single-fan engine. As shown, the tilt angle of the outlet guide vane 1324 can vary between a first position 1300a and a second position 1300b. For example, in the first position 1300a, the engine can be in takeoff conditions, and in the second position 1300b, the engine can be in cruise conditions. The outlet guide vane 1324 is movable, causing the tilt angle of the outlet guide vane 1324 to vary. The tilt angle during takeoff can be reduced compared to the tilt angle during cruise. Figure 16A A front view of the outlet guide vane 1324 in the second position 1300b under cruise conditions is shown. Figure 16A In this configuration, the tilt angle of the exit guide vane 1324 can be radial, meaning that the exit guide vane 1324 extends radially outward from the nacelle 112. This results in a maximum radial height state for the exit guide vane 1324, allowing for full-span despinning. Figure 16B In the middle, the outlet guide vane 1324 is variable, causing the tilt angle to change or shift to the first position 1300a. Figure 16B In this configuration, the exit guide vane 1324 can be actively adjusted at its effective altitude to appear to be more or less reduced in radial altitude, which is appropriate for given flight conditions (a longer effective altitude during cruise and a smaller effective altitude during takeoff). In this way, for example, interaction noise can be reduced during takeoff while aerodynamic efficiency can be increased during cruise.

[0070] refer to Figure 17 and Figure 18 The actuator 1334 can be positioned longitudinally or axially along the main body of the cabin 112. Figure 17 ) and / or circumferentially around the outer radial surface of the cabin 112 ( Figure 18 The movable outlet guide vane 1324. The actuator 1334 allows for adjustment or variation of the tilt angle as described herein. The actuator 1334 may be a linear actuator, a mechanical actuator, or any actuator described herein, or a combination thereof.

[0071] Figure 19 and Figure 20The illustration shows a view of curvature and / or height control of the outlet guide vane 1424. As shown, the curvature of the outlet guide vane 1424 can vary between a first position 1400a and a second position 1400b. This variation in the curvature of the outlet guide vane 1424 controls the height of the outlet guide vane 1424 and therefore the amount of airflow exposed to it. For example, in the first position 1400a, the engine may be in takeoff conditions, and in the second position 1400b, the engine may be in cruise conditions. The outlet guide vane 1424 can be moved such that its curvature varies. The curvature can increase during takeoff, resulting in a lower altitude during takeoff compared to cruise, as shown in the first position 1400a. The curvature can decrease during cruise, resulting in an increased altitude during cruise compared to takeoff, as shown in the second position 1400b. An actuation device 1434 can cause this variation in the curvature of the outlet guide vane 1424. Actuator 1434 may be embedded in exit guide vane 1424. Actuator 1434 may be a shape memory alloy, a bimetallic strip, a piezoelectric fiber, or a combination thereof. Therefore, as previously discussed, the temperature of exit guide vane 1424 and thus actuator 1434 can vary to change the curvature of exit guide vane 1424. Actuator 1434 can cause proplet 1426 of exit guide vane 1424 to bend or flex. Due to interaction noise, a shorter altitude may be possible during takeoff.

[0072] Although described separately, any actuation device of this disclosure may be combined with other actuation devices in the same exit guide vane of the same engine and / or different exit guide vanes. For example, by appropriately orienting the axis of rotation R of the vane in a suitable 3D direction, the exit guide vane of this disclosure can be controlled to simultaneously change the pitch, sweep angle, and yaw angle. Furthermore, although a separately articulated leading edge feature is described relative to the leading edge, the variable edge may be a trailing edge, a tip edge, or a combination of a leading edge, trailing edge, and tip edge. Additionally or alternatively, other actuation devices may be contemplated, such as, for example, but not limited to, mechanical actuation devices, hydraulic actuation devices, electro-actuation devices, and mechanical actuation devices including mechanical stops and / or locks. That is, the actuation device of this disclosure may be any device that allows a movable portion (e.g., a movable leading edge) of the exit guide vane to be fixed in a particular position based on a particular operating state of the aircraft and / or engine.

[0073] Therefore, the exit guide vane of this disclosure provides a variable leading edge for the exit guide vane. The variable exit guide vane can be achieved through tip twisting, tip warping, full-span movement, or split-span movement. Any or all of these can be achieved using shape memory alloys, bimetallic actuation, electrical actuation, or similar forms that achieve the effective movement of the features described herein.

[0074] The ability to control the orientation of the exit guide vane can reduce noise generated in a USF engine. For example, some of the noise generated in a USF engine is due to fan-OGV interaction noise. The OGV profile needs to be designed accordingly to address noise issues. However, this orientation or design differs between cruise conditions and takeoff and landing conditions. Under cruise conditions, the focus is on engine efficiency and cabin noise. Under takeoff conditions, the focus is on community noise and thrust. To mitigate all the problems and noise generated during both takeoff and cruise conditions, the exit guide vane of this disclosure is provided with an actuator to adjust the orientation and position of the exit guide vane.

[0075] Therefore, the exit guide vane of this disclosure includes a variable tip and leading edge portion capable of deflecting at an angle and / or warp or curvature selected for a given condition. The exit guide vane of this disclosure is configured to be actively tuned (e.g., actively tuned effective vane warp / twist, pitch, tilt angle, etc.) to achieve optimal aeroacoustics throughout flight, from takeoff to cruise and approach. For example, changing the OGV pitch can reduce overall community noise power. Active recapping of the OGV tip leading edge operates on the same noise source without diminishing takeoff thrust and further provides the possibility of eliminating complex OGV pitch control mechanisms (e.g., such as...). Figure 2 (As shown in the lower half). Removing the OGV pitch control mechanism can save space to shorten the engine length. However, with this disclosure, the OGV pitch control mechanism can be retained and can operate to position the blades at full pitch, thereby allowing for fine-tuning or precision adjustment of the OGV's position.

[0076] Therefore, the outlet guide vane of this disclosure allows for reduced noise (compared to conventional USF engines), minimizes noise from the interaction between the fan blades and the OGV, reduces engine weight and cost, eliminates the need for a pitch control mechanism, allows for enhanced turbocharger packaging, shortens engine length, and improves engine operation and efficiency. Furthermore, the outlet guide vane of this disclosure simplifies assembly and maintenance. Although described in relation to USF engines, the outlet guide vane and control device of this disclosure can be used with other engines, such as, but not limited to, counter-rotating open rotor engines.

[0077] Further aspects of this disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following provisions:

[0078] A ductless single-fan engine may include a housing having: one or more fan blades coupled to the housing and configured to rotate circumferentially; and one or more outlet guide vanes coupled to the housing, each of the one or more outlet guide vanes including a leading edge portion having a variable leading edge. The ductless single-fan engine may include one or more actuators coupled to each of the one or more outlet guide vanes, the one or more actuators configured to control the variable leading edge of the respective outlet guide vane. The variable leading edge can be controlled to change the pitch, warp, tilt angle, curvature, height, or sweep angle of the respective outlet guide vane.

[0079] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the housing includes a hub cover configured to rotate about the centerline of the ductless single-fan engine and a nacelle connected to the hub cover, wherein the one or more fan blades are configured to rotate together with the hub cover.

[0080] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the one or more actuating devices are located within the one or more outlet guide vanes.

[0081] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the variable leading edge and the leading edge portion are movable about a moving axis relative to the remaining main portion of the outlet guide vane.

[0082] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the variable leading edge is configured to extend along the entire wingspan of the exit guide vane.

[0083] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the variable leading edge is configured to extend from 10% to 70% of the wingspan length of the exit guide vane.

[0084] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the leading edge portion extends along at least a portion of the chord length of the exit guide vane, along at least a portion of the wingspan length of the exit guide vane, or along at least a portion of both the chord length and the wingspan length.

[0085] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the leading edge portion extends along the entire chord length of the exit guide vane and the entire wingspan length of the exit guide vane.

[0086] A ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the one or more actuating devices achieve: (i) torsion of the leading edge portion of the exit guide vane, (ii) winglet curvature control of the leading edge portion of the exit guide vane, (iii) rotation or hinge of the leading edge portion of the exit guide vane, (iv) or a combination thereof.

[0087] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the variable leading edge is configured to move during operation of the ductless single-fan engine, and wherein the position of the variable leading edge is based on the operating state of the ductless single-fan engine.

[0088] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the variable leading edge is a winglet, and wherein the one or more actuators are configured to control the winglet to change the curvature and height of the exit guide vane.

[0089] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the one or more actuating devices are one or more of mechanical actuating devices, electric actuating devices, bimetallic actuating devices, shape memory alloys, hinges, motors and torque tubes.

[0090] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the one or more actuating devices are configured to change the position of the variable leading edge relative to the outlet guide vane.

[0091] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the one or more actuating devices are shape memory alloys or bimetallic materials.

[0092] The ductless single-fan engine according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the shape memory alloy or bimetallic material is embedded in the body of the outlet guide vane.

[0093] In any of the foregoing clauses, the ductless single-fan engine is wherein the outlet guide vane is actively heated or cooled to cause the shape memory alloy or the bimetallic material to change the pitch, the warp, the tilt angle, or the sweep angle.

[0094] In any of the foregoing clauses, the ductless single-fan engine is wherein the outlet guide vane is passively heated or cooled to cause the shape memory alloy or the bimetallic material to change the pitch, the warpage, the tilt angle, or the sweep angle.

[0095] An outlet guide vane for an engine may include an adjustable body having portions configured to move or deform, wherein the pitch, warp, tilt angle, curvature, height, sweep angle, or combinations thereof of the outlet guide vane are controlled by moving or deforming the portions of the adjustable body.

[0096] The exit guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the portion of the adjustable body deforms to change the pitch, warp, tilt angle, curvature, height, sweep angle, or a combination thereof of the exit guide vane.

[0097] The exit guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the portion of the adjustable body moves relative to the remainder of the adjustable body to change the pitch, warp, tilt angle, curvature, height, sweep angle, or combination thereof of the exit guide vane.

[0098] The exit guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses further includes a shape memory alloy embedded in the adjustable body, the shape memory alloy being configured to deform the portion of the adjustable body.

[0099] The exit guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the portion is a winglet of the exit guide vane, and wherein the winglet deforms in a manner that adjusts the radial height of the exit guide vane.

[0100] The exit guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein two or more of the following parameters of the exit guide vane are simultaneously controlled: pitch, warp, tilt angle, curvature, height, or sweep angle.

[0101] The exit guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the exit guide vane is passively heated or cooled to deform the portion of the adjustable body and cause a change in at least one of the pitch, the warp, the tilt angle, or the sweep angle.

[0102] The outlet guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses further includes an actuation device within the outlet guide vane, the actuation device being configured to actuate movement or deformation of the portion of the adjustable body.

[0103] The exit guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the actuation device is one or more of a mechanical actuation device, an electric actuation device, a bimetallic actuation device, a shape memory alloy, a hinge, a motor, and a torque tube.

[0104] The exit guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the actuation device comprises a shape memory alloy or a bimetallic material, and wherein the exit guide vane is actively or passively heated or cooled to deform the portion of the adjustable body and cause a change in at least one of the pitch, the warp, the tilt angle, or the sweep angle.

[0105] The exit guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the adjustable body includes a leading edge and a trailing edge, and wherein the portion includes the leading edge such that the leading edge is configured to move relative to the trailing edge about a movement axis.

[0106] The exit guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the leading edge is configured to extend along the entire span of the exit guide vane.

[0107] The exit guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein the leading edge is configured to extend along the span of the exit guide vane.

[0108] The exit guide vane according to any one of the foregoing clauses further includes an actuation device, wherein the leading edge is configured to move relative to the trailing edge via the actuation device.

[0109] While the foregoing description pertains to preferred embodiments, it should be noted that other variations and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art and may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, features described in connection with one embodiment may be used in conjunction with other embodiments, even if not explicitly stated above.

Claims

1. A ductless single-fan engine, comprising: (a) A shell having: (i) One or more fan blades, which are coupled to the housing and configured to rotate circumferentially; and (ii) One or more outlet guide vanes coupled to the housing, each of the one or more outlet guide vanes including a leading edge portion having a variable leading edge; as well as (b) One or more actuating devices coupled to each of the one or more outlet guide vanes, the one or more actuating devices being configured to control the variable leading edge of the respective outlet guide vane. The variable leading edge can be controlled to change the pitch, warp, or curvature of the corresponding exit guide vane; and The tilt angle, height, sweep angle, or combination thereof of the one or more outlet guide vanes are controlled by the movement of the one or more outlet guide vanes.

2. The ductless single-fan engine according to claim 1, wherein, The housing includes a hubcap configured to rotate about the centerline of the ductless single-fan engine and a nacelle connected to the hubcap, wherein the one or more fan blades are configured to rotate together with the hubcap.

3. The ductless single-fan engine according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more actuating devices are embedded in the one or more outlet guide vanes.

4. The ductless single-fan engine according to claim 1, wherein, The variable leading edge and the leading edge portion are movable about the moving axis relative to the remaining main portion of the outlet guide vane.

5. The ductless single-fan engine according to claim 1, wherein, The leading edge portion extends along at least a portion of the chord length of the exit guide vane, along at least a portion of the wingspan length of the exit guide vane, or along at least a portion of both the chord length and the wingspan length.

6. The ductless single-fan engine according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more actuating devices achieve: (i) torsion of the leading edge portion of the outlet guide vane, (ii) winglet curvature control of the leading edge portion of the outlet guide vane, (iii) rotation or hinge of the leading edge portion of the outlet guide vane, (iv) or combinations thereof.

7. The ductless single-fan engine according to claim 1, wherein, The variable leading edge is configured to move during operation of the ductless single-fan engine, and the position of the variable leading edge is based on the operating state of the ductless single-fan engine.

8. The ductless single-fan engine according to claim 1, wherein, The variable leading edge is a winglet, and the one or more actuators are configured to control the winglet to change the curvature and height of the exit guide vane.

9. The ductless single-fan engine according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more actuating devices are one or more of mechanical actuating devices, electric actuating devices, bimetallic actuating devices, shape memory alloys, hinges, motors, and torque tubes.

10. The ductless single-fan engine according to claim 1, wherein, The one or more actuating devices are shape memory alloys or bimetallic materials, and wherein the shape memory alloys or bimetallic materials are embedded in the body of the outlet guide vane.

11. An outlet guide vane for a ductless single-fan engine, the outlet guide vane comprising: Adjustable main body, which has parts configured to move or deform. The tilt angle, height, sweep angle, or combination thereof of the outlet guide vane are controlled by moving or deforming the portion of the adjustable body.

12. The outlet guide vane according to claim 11, wherein, The portion of the adjustable body can be deformed to change the tilt angle, height, sweep angle, or a combination thereof of the outlet guide vane.

13. The outlet guide vane according to claim 11, wherein, The portion of the adjustable body moves relative to the rest of the adjustable body to change the tilt angle, height, sweep angle, or a combination thereof of the outlet guide vane.

14. The outlet guide vane according to claim 11, characterized in that, The portion is the winglet of the outlet guide vane, and wherein the winglet deforms in a manner that adjusts the radial height of the outlet guide vane.

15. The outlet guide vane according to claim 11, wherein, Two or more of the following parameters of the outlet guide vane are simultaneously controlled: pitch, warp, tilt angle, curvature, height, or sweep angle.

16. The outlet guide vane according to claim 11, wherein, The outlet guide vane is passively heated or cooled to deform the portion of the adjustable body, causing a change in at least one of the tilt angle or the sweep angle.

17. The outlet guide vane of claim 11, further comprising an actuating device within the outlet guide vane, the actuating device being configured to actuate movement or deformation of the portion of the adjustable body, wherein, The actuation device is one or more of the following: mechanical actuation device, electric actuation device, bimetallic actuation device, shape memory alloy, hinge, motor and torque tube.

18. The outlet guide vane according to claim 11, wherein, The adjustable body includes a leading edge and a trailing edge, wherein the portion includes the leading edge such that the leading edge is configured to move relative to the trailing edge about a movement axis.

19. The outlet guide vane according to claim 18, wherein, The leading edge is configured to extend at least a portion of the span along the exit guide vane.

20. The outlet guide vane according to claim 18, further comprising an actuation device, wherein, The leading edge is configured to move relative to the trailing edge via the actuation device.

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