Intelligent airborne unit, aero-engine control system and architecture

By optimizing the model parameters of the engine control system in real time through an intelligent airborne unit, the problem of insufficient computing power of the engine electronic controller is solved, enabling more efficient and safer engine control, and providing early fault warning and environmental prevention functions.

CN120840872APending Publication Date: 2025-10-28AECC HUNAN AVIATION POWERPLANT RES INST
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202511037580.6
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-07-25
Publication Date
2025-10-28

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing engine electronic controllers of aero-engine control systems have limited computing power and cannot run onboard engine models and intelligent perception and decision-making algorithms, which results in the inability to fully realize the engine's performance potential and may lead to unexpected shutdowns when critical control parameter sensors are damaged.

Method used

It uses an intelligent airborne unit, including a data communication module, a data acquisition module and a high-computing-power smart chip, to monitor engine operating data and sensor information in real time, optimize the preset model parameters of the engine electronic controller, and connect with the aircraft avionics system through wireless communication technology to provide real-time control strategies and decision support.

Benefits of technology

It improves the intelligence and safety of engine control, can maintain optimal operating conditions under different operating conditions, provides early fault warning and environmental prevention, reduces the risk of engine damage, and simplifies the maintenance process.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of architecture power control, and discloses an intelligent airborne unit, an aero-engine control system and an architecture, and the intelligent airborne unit comprises a data communication module which is used for achieving the data communication between an intelligent chip and an aircraft avionics system and the data communication between the intelligent chip and a generator electronic controller; the data acquisition module is used for acquiring generator operation data and sensing information; and the intelligent chip is used for optimizing preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller according to the generator operation data and the sensing information, and updating a control model in the generator electronic controller based on the optimized preset model parameters. Through the independent intelligent airborne unit, an intelligent chip with higher computing power can be configured, and the intelligent level of engine control is improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of architecture power control technology, specifically to an intelligent airborne unit, an aero-engine control system, and an architecture. Background Technology

[0002] An aero-engine control system consists of an Electronic Engine Control (EEC), a fuel electronic regulator, a fuel pump, a fuel distributor, guide vane actuators, bleed valves, and a data logger. The EEC, in conjunction with software, determines the current engine state by collecting engine status parameter signals and selects the control mode according to various command signals. The control software within the controller calculates the required fuel and compressor guide vane inputs, as well as on / off control signals, based on the current state's control strategy, such as the engine regulation plan, control laws, and control mode. Through corresponding actuators, it controls the fuel and guide vane positions, ignition, starting, and stopping, thereby controlling various engine operating states and performing functions such as engine starting, fuel and compressor guide vane angle control, and speed and temperature limiting.

[0003] Traditional aero-engine control systems rely on pre-set control laws. Engine regulation plans, focusing on thrust and power management strategies, are determined by engine overall performance design through calculations and simulations, and adjusted based on testing and aircraft requirements. Engine control laws primarily focus on pre-setting open-loop fuel supply patterns and adjusting fuel and guide vanes via closed-loop methods such as engine speed or fuel-air ratio during engine start-up, acceleration, and deceleration, and are refined through testing and adjustments. Control modes are determined based on operational experience and consultation with the aircraft, determining whether the engine operates in steady-state or transient state control based on input conditions such as atmospheric conditions and throttle action, while ensuring that control variables such as fuel and guide vanes meet requirements. Pre-set control laws cannot track engine degradation or consider individual performance differences, thus failing to fully realize the engine's performance potential. Because engine CNC systems prioritize high environmental adaptability and safety, the chips used in engine electronic controllers are mostly mature chips around 100MHz, with limited computing power. They cannot run engine onboard models and intelligent sensing and decision-making algorithms. Theoretically, engine sensor information can be reconstructed through models to participate in control, but current CNC systems lack sufficient computing power to run high-precision onboard models. Therefore, when sensors for key control parameters such as engine speed are damaged, it often leads to unexpected shutdowns, affecting engine safety. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides an intelligent airborne unit, an aero-engine control system and architecture to solve the problem that the existing engine electronic controller has limited computing power and cannot run engine airborne models and intelligent perception and decision-making algorithms.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an intelligent airborne unit, comprising: a data communication module for realizing data communication between the intelligent chip and the aircraft avionics system and data communication between the intelligent chip and the generator electronic controller; a data acquisition module for acquiring generator operating data and sensor information; and an intelligent chip for optimizing preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller based on the generator operating data and sensor information, and updating the control model in the generator electronic controller based on the optimized preset model parameters.

[0006] The intelligent airborne unit of this invention is independent of the generator electronic controller and can be configured with a more powerful intelligent chip. The intelligent chip optimizes the preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller and updates the control model based on the optimized parameters, which can make the generator control more precise, better adapt to different operating conditions, and improve the intelligence level of engine control.

[0007] The intelligent airborne unit is a separate kit that does not change the original engine control system or alter the original engine control reliability, thus possessing strong reliability and practicality.

[0008] By separating strategy and control execution, intelligent airborne units can utilize automotive-grade chips and interconnect technologies widely used in the existing civilian sector, resulting in low cost and ease of use and maintenance.

[0009] In some alternative implementations, the intelligent airborne unit also includes a data storage module for storing generator operating data, sensor information, and preset model parameters.

[0010] The data storage module can store generator operating data, sensor information, and preset model parameters, which facilitates the tracing and analysis of historical data, helps to understand the changing trends of generator operating status, and provides a reference for subsequent maintenance and optimization.

[0011] In some alternative implementations, the smart chip is configured with an airborne engine model, which includes:

[0012] The control law model is used to optimize the preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller based on generator operating data and sensor information, and to update the control model in the generator electronic controller based on the optimized preset model parameters.

[0013] By optimizing the control law model, the control strategy can be automatically adjusted according to different operating conditions and environments, so that the generator can maintain the best operating state under various operating conditions, thereby improving fuel economy and operating efficiency.

[0014] In some alternative implementations, the airborne engine model includes:

[0015] The motion state perception model is used to determine the engine performance degradation based on generator operating data through an air path fault diagnosis algorithm, and then sends the judgment result to the aircraft avionics system through a data communication module.

[0016] Motion state perception models can detect declining engine performance trends in a timely manner, providing early warnings for maintenance and repair.

[0017] In some alternative implementations, the airborne engine model includes:

[0018] The environment perception model is used to analyze the sensor information, obtain the environment perception information, and send the environment perception information to the aircraft avionics system through the data communication module.

[0019] By monitoring and analyzing the operating environment in real time, environmental factors that may adversely affect engine operation can be identified in advance, and corresponding measures can be taken to prevent them, thereby reducing the damage of environmental factors to the engine and improving the reliability of the system.

[0020] In some alternative implementations, the airborne engine model includes:

[0021] The adjustment plan model is used to analyze whether the engine's preset limit values ​​need to be adjusted after engine degradation or entry into a sand and dust environment based on a preset adjustment algorithm, and to send the engine preset limit values ​​that need to be adjusted to the aircraft avionics system through the data communication module.

[0022] By adjusting the planning model, the engine limit values ​​can be dynamically adjusted, enabling the engine to maintain safe and efficient operation under different operating conditions.

[0023] Thirdly, the present invention provides an aircraft engine control system, comprising: a generator electronic controller mounted on an aircraft, an aircraft avionics system, and an intelligent airborne unit as described in any of the first aspects of the present invention;

[0024] The intelligent airborne unit analyzes generator operating data and sensor information to obtain current flight status information and control strategies, optimizes the preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller, sends the current flight status information and control strategies to the aircraft avionics system, and updates the control model in the generator electronic controller based on the optimized preset model parameters.

[0025] In some alternative implementations, the aircraft engine control system also includes a ground server, which is connected to the aircraft avionics system. The ground server receives current flight status information sent by the aircraft avionics system, performs deep learning analysis based on the current flight status information, and sends the deep learning analysis results to the aircraft avionics system.

[0026] In some alternative implementations, the intelligent airborne unit is connected to an engine system, an intake dust sensor, a noise sensor, and a vibration sensor. It acquires generator operating data through the transmitter system, dust concentration data through the intake dust sensor, engine noise data through the noise sensor, and engine vibration data through the vibration sensor. The sensing information includes dust concentration data, engine noise data, and engine vibration data.

[0027] Thirdly, the present invention provides an aircraft power control architecture, including an intelligent airborne unit as described in any of the first aspects of the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0028] To more clearly illustrate the specific embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the aircraft engine control system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the intelligent airborne unit according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0032] Currently, the electronic controllers for aircraft engines mostly use mature chips with a clock speed of around 100MHz, which have limited computing power and cannot run onboard engine models and intelligent perception and decision-making algorithms. Pre-set control plans cannot track engine performance degradation or account for individual performance differences, thus failing to fully realize the engine's performance potential.

[0033] In view of this, embodiments of the present invention propose an intelligent airborne unit, an aero-engine control system, and an architecture to enhance the capabilities of existing aero-engine electronic controllers. This allows for periodic optimization of aero-engine control strategies and, under extreme conditions, online intervention in engine control, thereby improving engine control safety. Compared to traditional fixed-mode engine control systems, it possesses the ability to optimize control patterns online and enhances the ability to handle engine situations. The intelligent airborne unit of this invention can be applied to the control of various types of aero-engines.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the aircraft engine control system of this embodiment includes:

[0035] The generator electronic controller, aircraft avionics system, and intelligent airborne unit are mounted on the aircraft;

[0036] The intelligent airborne unit analyzes generator operating data and sensor information to obtain current flight status information and control strategies, optimizes the preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller, sends the current flight status information and control strategies to the aircraft avionics system, and updates the control model in the generator electronic controller based on the optimized preset model parameters.

[0037] Specifically, the intelligent airborne unit is installed on the aircraft and connected to the generator electronic controller via cable. It receives engine operation data in real time and acquires sensing information through sensors, including dust concentration data, engine noise data, and engine vibration data.

[0038] The intelligent airborne unit connects to the onboard APP in the aircraft's avionics system via wireless communication technologies such as WIFI or StarFlash. The intelligent airborne unit analyzes generator operating data and sensor information to obtain current flight status information and control strategies. The current flight status information includes engine status, and the control strategies include recommended combinations of operating commands.

[0039] The intelligent airborne unit pushes current flight status information and control strategies to the airborne APP and displays them on the control panel, providing decision-making references for the pilot to operate the power system.

[0040] Meanwhile, the intelligent airborne unit incorporates a deep learning model to optimize the preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller and update the control model within the generator electronic controller. The preset model parameters can be determined based on the control model in the generator electronic controller. For example, if the control model in the generator electronic controller is for engine speed regulation, the preset model parameters could be the upper limit of engine speed or some adjustable parameters.

[0041] The intelligent airborne unit adopts industrial-grade NVIDIA or Ascend specifications for high-performance AI edge chips, enabling real-time execution of various model algorithms. Compared with the mature and reliable chips used in current generator electronic controllers, the computing power of the intelligent airborne unit is significantly improved. At the same time, since the intelligent airborne unit does not replace the original numerical control system's computing and control, it will not have an adverse impact on the existing maturity.

[0042] This invention discloses an intelligent aero-engine control architecture. Compared to traditional CNC system architectures, it adds a high-computing-power intelligent airborne unit that can run an airborne engine model in real time. This model analyzes motor operation data and sensor information to obtain current flight status information and control strategies. Based on these strategies, it intervenes in engine control online, improving engine control safety. Simultaneously, it optimizes preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller, simplifying the process of experts modifying the generator electronic controller configuration file by inserting a host computer into the generator electronic controller maintenance interface. For multiple controllers of the same model, it enables simplified upgrades of the generator electronic controller software version.

[0043] In some embodiments, the aircraft engine control system further includes a ground server, which is connected to the aircraft avionics system. The ground server is used to receive current flight status information sent by the aircraft avionics system, perform deep learning analysis based on the current flight status information, and send the deep learning analysis results to the aircraft avionics system.

[0044] Specifically, a ground service app is configured on the ground server, which can utilize a more powerful computer. The aircraft's avionics system transmits data in real-time to the ground server via the aircraft's air-to-ground data link, enabling remote, real-time monitoring of engine operating status. Airborne data, such as current flight status information, is sent to the ground segment for further learning and analysis by the ground server to understand engine operating status. The analysis results and corresponding decision feedback can be transmitted in real-time to the onboard app on the aircraft's avionics system. Furthermore, the ground server periodically updates the onboard model and pushes it to the onboard app to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the onboard model.

[0045] In some embodiments, the intelligent airborne unit is connected to an engine system, an intake dust sensor, a noise sensor, and a vibration sensor. It acquires generator operating data through the transmitter system, dust concentration data through the intake dust sensor, engine noise data through the noise sensor, and engine vibration data through the vibration sensor. The sensing information includes dust concentration data, engine noise data, and engine vibration data.

[0046] Among them, the data provided by vibration sensors and noise sensors are usually not directly fed into the traditional CNC system. Vibration and noise data can reflect the mechanical and acoustic state inside the engine and help to discover potential problems that are difficult to detect by traditional monitoring systems.

[0047] The intelligent airborne unit can not only monitor the engine's basic operating parameters, but also sense external environmental conditions and the engine's mechanical and acoustic status, thereby providing a more comprehensive assessment of its operating status.

[0048] This invention also provides an intelligent airborne unit, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the intelligent airborne unit includes: a data communication module for data communication between the intelligent chip and the aircraft avionics system, and data communication between the intelligent chip and the generator electronic controller; a data acquisition module for acquiring generator operating data and sensor information; and an intelligent chip for optimizing the preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller based on the generator operating data and sensor information, and updating the control model in the generator electronic controller based on the optimized preset model parameters.

[0049] Specifically, such as Figure 2 As shown, the intelligent airborne unit is connected to the CNC system maintenance interface to receive real-time operating information from the engine electronic controller, including the engine electronic controller's operating parameters and control quantities, while also collecting engine speed and pump adjustment information. On the other hand, it is connected to the aircraft avionics system to receive flight information.

[0050] The intelligent airborne unit also collects ambient atmospheric information separately, such as temperature, pressure, and dust concentration. The intelligent airborne unit also collects supplementary information on engine operating status, including vibration and noise information that are not usually entered into the CNC system, thus enhancing the perception of the engine's own operating status and the environment.

[0051] The generator operating data includes engine speed and pump operation information, while the sensor information includes sand and dust concentration, vibration, and noise information.

[0052] The main function of the data communication module is to exchange data with the existing engine electronic controller and aircraft avionics system. The data acquisition module is used to process newly added sensor information. The intelligent chip mainly uses various airborne operation models to process the data collected and transmitted in real time, analyze the best operating strategy, optimize the preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller, and update the control model of the generator electronic controller online.

[0053] In some embodiments, the intelligent airborne unit further includes a data storage module for storing generator operating data, sensor information, and preset model parameters.

[0054] The data storage module can store generator operating data, sensor information, and preset model parameters, which facilitates the tracing and analysis of historical data, helps to understand the changing trends of generator operating status, and provides a reference for subsequent maintenance and optimization.

[0055] In some embodiments, the smart chip is configured with an airborne engine model, the airborne engine model including:

[0056] The control law model is used to optimize the preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller based on generator operating data and sensor information, and to update the control model in the generator electronic controller based on the optimized preset model parameters.

[0057] The main function of the control law model is to optimize the preset model parameters of the control model operating inside the engine electronic controller. Through the optimization function of the control law model, the control strategy can be automatically adjusted according to different operating conditions and environments, so that the generator can maintain the best operating state under various operating conditions, thereby improving fuel economy and operating efficiency.

[0058] Furthermore, the airborne engine model also includes:

[0059] The motion state perception model is used to determine the engine performance degradation based on generator operating data through an air path fault diagnosis algorithm, and then sends the judgment result to the aircraft avionics system through a data communication module.

[0060] The operational status awareness model primarily uses airflow fault diagnosis algorithms to assess engine performance degradation. This model can promptly detect declining engine performance trends, providing early warnings for maintenance and repair.

[0061] Furthermore, the airborne engine model also includes:

[0062] The environment perception model is used to analyze the sensor information, obtain the environment perception information, and send the environment perception information to the aircraft avionics system through the data communication module.

[0063] The main function of the operating environment perception model is to analyze atmospheric conditions, dust environment, and noise. By monitoring and analyzing the operating environment in real time, it can identify environmental factors that may adversely affect engine operation in advance, take corresponding measures to prevent them, reduce the damage of environmental factors to the engine, and improve the reliability of the system.

[0064] Furthermore, the airborne engine model also includes:

[0065] The adjustment plan model is used to analyze whether the engine's preset limit values ​​need to be adjusted after engine degradation or entry into a sand and dust environment based on a preset adjustment algorithm, and to send the engine preset limit values ​​that need to be adjusted to the aircraft avionics system through the data communication module.

[0066] The adjustment planning model is primarily responsible for analyzing whether engine temperature and other limiting values ​​need adjustment after engine degradation or entry into a sandy or dusty environment. Through the adjustment planning model, dynamic adjustments to engine limiting values ​​can be made, ensuring safe and efficient engine operation under various working conditions.

[0067] The intelligent airborne unit of this invention is independent of the generator electronic controller and can be configured with a more powerful intelligent chip. The intelligent chip optimizes the preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller and updates the control model based on the optimized parameters, which can make the generator control more precise, better adapt to different operating conditions, and improve the intelligence level of engine control.

[0068] The intelligent airborne unit is a separate kit that does not change the original engine control system or alter the original engine control, thus possessing strong reliability and practicality.

[0069] By separating strategy and control execution, intelligent airborne units can utilize automotive-grade chips and interconnect technologies widely used in the existing civilian sector, resulting in low cost and ease of use and maintenance.

[0070] This invention also provides an aircraft power control architecture, including an intelligent airborne unit as described in any of the above embodiments of this invention.

[0071] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications and variations fall within the scope of protection.

Claims

1. An intelligent airborne unit, characterized in that, include: The data communication module is used to realize data communication between the smart chip and the aircraft avionics system, as well as data communication between the smart chip and the generator electronic controller; The data acquisition module is used to acquire generator operating data and sensor information; The intelligent chip is used to optimize the preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller based on the generator operating data and the sensor information, and to update the control model in the generator electronic controller based on the optimized preset model parameters.

2. The intelligent airborne unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The intelligent airborne unit also includes a data storage module, which is used to store the generator operating data, the sensor information, and the preset model parameters.

3. The intelligent airborne unit according to claim 1, characterized in that, The intelligent chip is equipped with an airborne engine model, which includes: A control law model is used to optimize the preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller based on the generator operating data and the sensor information, and to update the control model in the generator electronic controller based on the optimized preset model parameters.

4. The intelligent airborne unit according to claim 3, characterized in that, The airborne engine model includes: The motion state perception model is used to determine the engine performance degradation based on the generator operating data using an air path fault diagnosis algorithm, and to send the determination result to the aircraft avionics system through the data communication module.

5. The intelligent airborne unit according to claim 3, characterized in that, The airborne engine model includes: An environmental perception model is run to analyze the sensor information, obtain environmental perception information, and send the environmental perception information to the aircraft avionics system through the data communication module.

6. The intelligent airborne unit according to claim 3, characterized in that, The airborne engine model includes: The adjustment plan model is used to analyze whether the engine's preset limit value needs to be adjusted after engine decay or entry into a sand and dust environment based on a preset adjustment algorithm, and to send the engine's preset limit value that needs to be adjusted to the aircraft's avionics system through the data communication module.

7. An aircraft engine control system, characterized in that, include: The generator electronic controller, the aircraft avionics system, and the intelligent airborne unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, mounted on the aircraft; The intelligent airborne unit analyzes generator operating data and sensor information to obtain current flight status information and control strategies, optimizes the preset model parameters in the generator electronic controller, sends the current flight status information and control strategies to the aircraft avionics system, and updates the control model in the generator electronic controller based on the optimized preset model parameters.

8. The aircraft engine control system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The aircraft engine control system also includes a ground server, which is communicatively connected to the aircraft avionics system. The ground server is used to receive the current flight status information sent by the aircraft avionics system, perform deep learning analysis based on the current flight status information, and send the deep learning analysis results to the aircraft avionics system.

9. The aircraft engine control system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The intelligent airborne unit is connected to an engine system, an intake dust sensor, a noise sensor, and a vibration sensor. It acquires generator operating data through the transmitter system, dust concentration data through the intake dust sensor, engine noise data through the noise sensor, and engine vibration data through the vibration sensor. The sensing information includes dust concentration data, engine noise data, and engine vibration data.

10. An aircraft power control architecture, characterized in that, Includes the intelligent airborne unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6.