Air turbine starter and system for a gas turbine engine

Abstract

The present invention relates to air turbine starters and systems for gas turbine engines. Specifically, a system includes an air turbine starter having a housing defining an air flow path between an inlet and an outlet. A turbine shaft is located in the housing and a plurality of blades are coupled to the turbine shaft and disposed in the main air flow path. An electric motor is within the housing and an outer surface of the electric motor defines a portion of the main air flow path, the electric motor having a drive shaft. A clutch assembly is within the housing to selectively couple the electric motor drive shaft and the turbine shaft. Further, a valve is to fluidly couple an ambient air supply to the inlet when open and a controller is to open the valve when the electric motor is primed to enable ambient air to flow through the main air flow path and over the outer surface of the electric motor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to starters for gas turbine engines, and more specifically, to hybrid air turbine starters and related systems for gas turbine engines. Background Technology

[0002] Turbine engines, such as gas turbine engines, are typically started via an air turbine starter (ATS). The ATS is usually installed near the turbine engine and may be coupled to a high-pressure fluid source (such as compressed air), which impinges on the turbine rotor within the ATS, causing the turbine rotor to rotate at a relatively high rate. The ATS includes an output drive shaft driven by the turbine rotor (typically via a reduction gearbox), which provides rotational energy to rotatable elements of the turbine engine (e.g., crankshafts or rotatable shafts) to initiate rotation. The rotation by the ATS continues until the turbine engine reaches its self-sustaining operating speed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one aspect, this disclosure relates to a system comprising an air turbine starter having an electric motor and a controller having at least one valve. The system includes an ambient air supply, a pressurized air supply, and a bleed air supply. Each air supply is selectively fluidly coupled to the inlet of the air turbine starter via a corresponding ambient air valve, pressurized air valve, and bleed air valve. The air turbine starter includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet, which surrounds or otherwise encloses the electric motor and turbine shaft. The housing may be integrally formed or may include multiple components joined together. The housing of the air turbine starter partially defines a main airflow path. The air turbine starter can operate in a pneumatic / aerodynamic mode or an electric mode.

[0004] In aerodynamic mode, the pressurized air valve opens to allow high-pressure air to flow through the main airflow path, causing the turbine shaft to rotate and thus starting the engine. Alternatively, the bleed air valve may open to provide high-pressure air flow through the main airflow path to rotate the turbine shaft and thus start the engine.

[0005] In electric mode, the motor is activated to rotate the turbine shaft, and the ambient air valve opens. The rotation of the turbine shaft can be used to start the engine or rotate engine parts (e.g., for maintenance). When the ambient air valve is open, the rotation of the turbine shaft draws ambient air into the main airflow path, which cools the motor. In other words, when the air turbine starter operates in electric mode, the ambient air valve opens to allow ambient air to flow through the main airflow path and along the outer surface of the motor to help cool it.

[0006] In addition, the present invention also provides the following technical solutions.

[0007] Technical Solution 1. A system comprising: An air turbine starter, comprising: The housing defines the main airflow path between the inlet and outlet; The turbine shaft in the housing; Multiple blades are connected to the turbine shaft and disposed in the main airflow path; An electric motor is located within the housing, the outer surface of which defines a portion of the main airflow path, and the electric motor has a motor drive shaft; The clutch assembly within the housing is used to selectively connect the motor drive shaft and the turbine shaft; A valve, which, when opened, fluidly connects an ambient air supply device to the inlet; and A controller is used to open the valve when the electric motor is started, so that ambient air can flow through the main airflow path and over the outer surface of the electric motor.

[0008] Technical Solution 2. The system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the valve is an ambient air valve, the system further includes a pressurized air valve for fluidly connecting a pressurized air supply device to the inlet when open, and the system further includes an air starter valve between the ambient air valve, the pressurized air valve and the inlet.

[0009] Technical Solution 3. The system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the controller is operatively connected to the starter air valve, the ambient air valve, and the pressurized air valve, wherein the controller is configured to actuate the starter air valve, the ambient air valve, and the pressurized air valve between an open position and a closed position.

[0010] Technical Solution 4. The system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the turbine shaft and the motor drive shaft are axially spaced apart.

[0011] Technical Solution 5. The system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the clutch assembly is located axially between the turbine shaft and the motor drive shaft.

[0012] Technical Solution 6. A system comprising: An air turbine starter, comprising: A shell that defines the interior and exterior; An electric motor having a motor drive shaft, wherein the electric motor is located inside the housing, and wherein the electric motor includes an outer surface spaced apart from the inner surface of the housing; A turbine component located axially behind the electric motor has multiple blades, wherein the turbine component is coupled to a turbine shaft; A clutch assembly that selectively connects the motor drive shaft and the turbine shaft; and A main airflow path connecting the inlet and the outlet, wherein the main airflow path, the inlet and the outlet are defined by at least a portion of the housing, and wherein at least a portion of the main airflow path is further defined by the outer surface of the electric motor; A valve selectively and fluidly connected to the inlet; and The controller is operatively connected to the valve.

[0013] Technical Solution 7. The system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the valve is an ambient air valve, the system further includes a pressurized air valve for fluidly connecting a pressurized air supply device to the inlet when open, and the system further includes an air starter valve between the ambient air valve, the pressurized air valve and the inlet.

[0014] Technical Solution 8. The system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the controller is operatively connected to the starter air valve, the ambient air valve, and the pressurized air valve, wherein the controller is configured to actuate the starter air valve, the ambient air valve, and the pressurized air valve between an open position and a closed position.

[0015] Technical Solution 9. A system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the controller communicates with the clutch assembly to selectively engage the motor drive shaft and the turbine shaft, and wherein the controller is configured to control electrical energy supplied to the electric motor.

[0016] Technical Solution 10. The system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the main airflow path has a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is defined from the inlet to the upstream face of the turbine component, and the second portion is defined from the upstream face of the turbine component to the outlet.

[0017] Technical Solution 11. The system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the turbine shaft and the motor drive shaft are axially spaced apart.

[0018] Technical Solution 12. The system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the clutch assembly is located axially between the turbine shaft and the motor drive shaft.

[0019] Technical Solution 13. The system according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein a dome wall is disposed in the interior, wherein the dome wall is configured to guide air from the inlet to the turbine component.

[0020] Technical Solution 14. A turbine engine, comprising: An engine core having a compression section, a combustion section, and a turbine arranged in a series flow configuration, the engine core having an engine drive shaft; and The system includes: An air turbine starter, the air turbine starter comprising: The internal shell is defined; A turbine component, located within the interior, having a turbine shaft and multiple blades coupled to the turbine shaft; An electric motor, which is located inside the interior and has a motor drive shaft; A clutch assembly, which is located within the interior and selectively engages the turbine shaft with the motor drive shaft; and A main airflow path connecting the inlet and the outlet, wherein the main airflow path, the inlet and the outlet are defined by at least a portion of the housing, and wherein at least a portion of the main airflow path is further defined by the outer surface of the electric motor; A valve selectively and fluidly connected to the inlet; and The controller is operatively connected to the valve.

[0021] Technical Solution 15. A turbine engine according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the valve is an ambient air valve, the system further includes a pressurized air valve for fluidly connecting a pressurized air supply device to the inlet when open, and the system further includes an air starter valve between the ambient air valve, the pressurized air valve and the inlet.

[0022] Technical Solution 16. A turbine engine according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the controller is operatively connected to the starter air valve, the ambient air valve, and the pressurized air valve, wherein the controller is configured to actuate the starter air valve, the ambient air valve, and the pressurized air valve between an open position and a closed position.

[0023] Technical Solution 17. A turbine engine according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein a dome wall is disposed in the interior, wherein the dome wall is configured to guide air from the inlet to the turbine component.

[0024] Technical Solution 18. The turbine engine according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the turbine shaft and the motor drive shaft are axially spaced apart.

[0025] Technical Solution 19. The turbine engine according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the clutch assembly is located axially between the turbine shaft and the motor drive shaft.

[0026] Technical Solution 20. A turbine engine according to any of the foregoing technical solutions, wherein the air turbine starter further includes an output shaft connected to the turbine shaft, wherein the output shaft is selectively connected to the engine drive shaft. Attached Figure Description

[0027] In the attached diagram: Figure 1 It is a schematic diagram of a turbine engine with a hybrid air turbine starter, based on the aspects described in the text.

[0028] Figure 2 It is based on the various aspects described in the text. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a hybrid air turbine starter.

[0029] Figure 3 This shows the aspects described in the text. Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the electronic and fluid communication of a hybrid air turbine starter.

[0030] Figure 4 It is used for operation Figure 3 A schematic flowchart illustrating exemplary steps of a method for a hybrid air turbine starter. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Although this disclosure is described in some examples in connection with turbine engines used in aircraft, it is also applicable to other non-aircraft applications or other turbine environments. Non-limiting examples to which this disclosure may be applied include other mobile applications as well as non-mobile industrial, commercial, and residential applications.

[0032] In this document, the word "exemplary" is used to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Any implementation described as "exemplary" in this document is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Furthermore, unless explicitly stated otherwise, all embodiments described herein should be considered exemplary.

[0033] As used in the text, terms such as “first” and “second” are used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to indicate the location or importance of a single component.

[0034] As used in this text, the term "upstream" refers to the direction opposite to the direction of fluid flow, and the term "downstream" refers to the direction in the same direction as the fluid flow. The terms "front" or "in front" mean in front of something, and "back" or "behind" means behind something. For example, in the context of fluid flow, "front / in front" can mean upstream, and "back / behind" can mean downstream.

[0035] Furthermore, as used herein, the term "radial" or "along the radial direction" refers to a direction away from a common center. For example, in the overall context of a turbine engine, "radial" refers to the direction along a ray extending between the engine's central longitudinal axis and the outer circumference of the engine. Additionally, as used herein, the term "group" or "set" of elements can refer to any number of elements, including only one.

[0036] Connection references (e.g., attachment, coupling, fastening, fastening, linking, and joining) should be interpreted broadly and, unless otherwise stated, can include intermediate components between a series of elements and relative movement between elements. Therefore, a connection reference does not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and fixed relative to each other. Exemplary figures are for illustrative purposes only, and the dimensions, positions, order, and relative sizes reflected in the figures attached herein may vary.

[0037] As used herein, a “controller” or “controller module” can include a component configured or adapted to provide instructions, control, operation, or any form of communication to an operable component to achieve its operation. A controller or controller module can include any known processor, microcontroller, or logic device, including but not limited to: field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), full-authority digital engine control systems (FADECs), proportional controllers (P), proportional-integral controllers (PI), proportional-derivative controllers (PD), proportional-integral-derivative controllers (PID controllers), hardware-accelerated logic controllers (e.g., for encoding, decoding, transcoding, etc.), and combinations thereof. Non-limiting examples of controllers or controller modules may be configured or adapted to run, operate, or otherwise execute program code to achieve operational or functional results, including implementing various methods, functions, processing tasks, calculations, comparisons, sensing or measurement of values, etc., to allow or accomplish the technical operations or actions described herein. Operational or functional results may be based on one or more inputs, stored data values, sensed or measured values, true / false indications, etc. Although described as "program code," non-limiting examples of operable or executable instruction sets may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, algorithms, etc., that have the technical effect of performing a particular task or implementing a particular abstract data type. In another non-limiting example, the controller or controller module may also include processor-accessible data storage components, including memory, whether transient, volatile, or non-transient memory, or non-volatile memory. Other non-limiting examples of memory may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, or one or more different types of portable electronic memory, such as optical discs, DVDs, CD-ROMs, flash drives, universal serial bus (USB) drives, etc., or any suitable combination of these types of memory. In one example, program code may be stored in memory in a processor-accessible, machine-readable format. Furthermore, memory may store various types of data, sensed or measured data values, input, generated or processed data, etc., accessible to the processor when providing instructions, control, or operation to achieve a function or operable result, as described herein.

[0038] Furthermore, as used herein, the terms "electrical connection," "electrical link," or "communication by signal" can include the transmission or signaling of electrical connections or links to or from such connections or links. Additionally, such electrical connections or links can include wired connections or wireless connections, or a combination of both.

[0039] As used herein, a “Hybrid Turbine Starter (HTS)” refers to an air turbine starter having a turbine component that is selectively and operably coupled to an electric motor. A housing (which may be several components joined together) surrounds or encloses at least a portion of the electric motor and turbine component of the air turbine starter. An HTS may be a hybrid pneumatic-electric starter (HPES) in which the turbine component is driven by pressurized air (pneumatically) or by electrical energy.

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic view of a turbine engine 14 with an air turbine starter (ATS), shown as a hybrid turbine starter 10 (HTS). The HTS 10 is coupled to an accessory gearbox (AGB) 12, both of which are schematically shown as being mounted to the turbine engine 14, such as a gas turbine engine. The turbine engine 14 is defined by an engine centerline 15 extending in the axial direction.

[0041] The turbine engine 14 includes an air inlet with a fan 16 that supplies air to the high-pressure compression section 18. Although shown by way of example at the radially outer portion of the fan housing 17, it is contemplated that the HTS 10 can be coupled to any part of the turbine engine 14. As a non-limiting example, if the fan housing 17 moves in the axial direction, the HTS 10 can be located radially inward.

[0042] The air inlet with fan 16 and the high-pressure compression section 18 are collectively referred to as the "cold section" upstream of combustion in the turbine engine 14. The high-pressure compression section 18 supplies high-pressure air to the combustion section 20. In the combustion section 20, the high-pressure air mixes with fuel and burns. The hot and pressurized combustion gases are passed through the high-pressure turbine section 22 and the low-pressure turbine section 24 before exiting the turbine engine 14. As the combustion gases are passed through the high-pressure turbine section 22 and the low-pressure turbine section 24, rotational energy is extracted from the gas flow passing through the turbine engine 14. A shaft can connect the high-pressure turbine section 22 to the high-pressure compression section 18 to power the compression mechanism. The low-pressure turbine section 24 can be connected by a shaft to the fan 16 at the air inlet to power the fan 16. In other words, the turbine engine 14 includes an engine core having the compression section 18, combustion section 20, and turbine sections 22 and 24 arranged in a series flow configuration, and this engine core has an engine drive shaft.

[0043] The AGB 12 is coupled to the turbine engine 14 at either the high-pressure turbine region 22 or the low-pressure turbine region 24. The connection between the AGB 12 and the turbine engine can be, for example, via a mechanical power take-off device (TDP) 26. The TDP 26 includes multiple gears and components for mechanically coupling the AGB 12 to the turbine engine 14. Under normal operating conditions, the TDP 26 transfers power from the turbine engine 14 to the AGB 12 to power aircraft accessories such as, but not limited to, fuel pumps, electrical systems, and cabin environmental control systems. The HTS 10 can be mounted externally to the air inlet region containing the fan 16, or it can be mounted on the core near the high-pressure compression region 18.

[0044] Figure 2 This is a schematic cross-section of an exemplary HTS 10, which may include, for example, [the following components are included in the HTS 10]. Figure 1 In the embodiment, HTS 10 includes a housing 30 defining an interior 31 and an exterior 33. Housing 30 includes an inlet 32 ​​and an outlet 34. A main airflow path 36 extends between the inlet 32 ​​and the outlet 34 for conveying a fluid flow therethrough. In a non-limiting example, the fluid is air, such as pressurized air, provided by a self-pressurized air supply device, including but not limited to ground-operated air vehicles, auxiliary power units, or cross-bleed starters from an already operating engine. HTS 10 includes a turbine component 38 journal-mounted within housing 30. A plurality of blades 39 extend from turbine component 38 and are circumferentially spaced around turbine component 38. The plurality of blades 39 are disposed within the main airflow path 36.

[0045] Turbine shaft 40 is connected to turbine component 38. Turbine shaft 40 can rotatably extract mechanical power from the gas flow along the main air flow path 36 via multiple blades 39, thereby causing turbine shaft 40 to rotate.

[0046] It is important to note that the HTS 10 is functionally and structurally similar to the turbocharged engine 14 ( Figure 1 The HTS 10 and the turbine engine 14 are different. The HTS 10 provides a source of compressed air to rotate the turbine component 38. The rotation of the turbine component 38 and the turbine shaft 40 of the HTS 10 is used to start the turbine engine 14. In addition to compressed air, the turbine component 38 can also be rotated by an electric motor operatively connected to the turbine shaft 40 and housed within the HTS 10. The turbine engine 14 is further distinguished from the HTS 10 because it employs a Brayton cycle (or Joule cycle), which involves intake, compression, combustion, and exhaust. The operating environments, requirements, structures, and functions of the HTS 10 and the turbine engine 14 are significantly different.

[0047] The main airflow path 36 has at least a first portion 41 and a second portion 42. The first portion 41 is defined from the inlet 32 ​​to the upstream face 43 of the turbine component 38. The second portion 42 is defined from the upstream face 43 of the turbine component 38 to the outlet 34.

[0048] Gear train 58 may be located within gearbox 56 and is drivably coupled to turbine component 38. In the example shown, gear train 58 includes ring gear 60. It will be understood that gear train 58 may include any suitable gear assembly, including but not limited to planetary gear assemblies, pinion assemblies, etc. A rotatable turbine shaft 40 connects gear train 58 to a plurality of blades 39, allowing mechanical power to be transmitted to gear train 58. Rotatable turbine shaft 40 is coupled to gear train 58 and is rotatably supported by a pair of turbine bearings 62. Gear train 58 is supported by a pair of carrier bearings 64.

[0049] The gearbox interior 66 may be provided with a lubricant, including but not limited to grease or oil. The gearbox interior 66 may provide lubrication and cooling for mechanical parts contained therein, such as gear train 58, ring gear 60, turbine bearing 62, and bracket bearing 64.

[0050] A bore 68 is provided in the gearbox 66. A rotatable turbine shaft 40 can extend through the bore 68 and engage with a bracket shaft 70, to which a clutch 72 is mounted and supported by a pair of spaced-apart bearings 74. A drive shaft 76 extends from the gearbox 56 and is coupled to the clutch 72, and is additionally supported by the pair of spaced-apart bearings 74. The drive shaft 76 is driven by a gear train 58 and selectively coupled to an output shaft 78, such that during startup operation, the drive shaft 76 provides drive motion to the output shaft 78.

[0051] The motor is located within housing 30. In the non-limiting example shown, the motor is an electric motor 44. However, in the non-limiting example, it is contemplated that the motor may include a generator. The electric motor 44 is axially positioned in front of the turbine assembly 38. That is, the turbine assembly 38 is axially positioned behind the electric motor 44. As used herein, the term "upstream" refers to a direction opposite to the direction of fluid flow, and the term "downstream" refers to a direction in the same direction as the fluid flow. The terms "front" or "forefront" mean in front of something, and "rear" or "behind" means behind something. For example, when used in relation to fluid flow, front / forefront can mean upstream, and rear / behind can mean downstream. The term "axially" refers to the axial direction Ad along the engine centerline 15.

[0052] The electric motor 44 may include a motor drive shaft 45. The electric motor 44 may include a rotor 46 rotatably connected to the motor drive shaft 45 and configured to rotate relative to a stationary (i.e., non-rotating) stator 48. As a non-limiting example, the rotor 46 may be an inner rotor. An outer surface 47 circumscribes the electric motor 44. The outer surface 47 of the electric motor 44 is spaced apart from the inner surface 49 of the housing 30. The outer surface 47 defines at least a portion of the main airflow path 36. In a non-limiting example, the HTS 10 includes a dome wall 51 within the interior 31 of the housing 30. The dome wall 51 can guide air from the inlet 32 ​​to the turbine component 38 by defining at least a portion of the main airflow path 36. That is, the dome wall 51 can create a smooth flow path around the electric motor 44. In another non-limiting example, it is contemplated that the dome wall 51 may be included on the motor.

[0053] The electric motor 44 can provide electrical energy, causing the rotor 46 and the motor drive shaft 45 to rotate. The electric motor 44 can receive electrical energy, for example, from a power distribution system or an electrical storage device (e.g., a battery). Alternatively, electrical energy (e.g., electricity, current, voltage, power, etc.) can be supplied from the HTS 10 to another component, such as a power distribution system, an electrical storage device, or an electrical load. That is, the motor drive shaft 45 can be adapted to receive or be operable to receive a rotatable kinetic energy input or to supply or provide a rotatable kinetic energy output.

[0054] Clutch assembly 50 is located within interior 31. Clutch assembly 50 selectively engages rotatable turbine shaft 40 to motor drive shaft 45. Clutch assembly 50 can be mounted to motor drive shaft 45. Contemplatedly, clutch assembly 50 is axially located between electric motor 44 and turbine component 38. However, clutch assembly 50 may axially overlap with electric motor 44 and turbine component 38, or may be located radially outside electric motor 44 and turbine component 38. Further contemplatedly, clutch assembly 50 may be included within electric motor 44. Still further contemplatedly, a portion of electric motor 44 is included within clutch assembly 50.

[0055] Figure 3This is a schematic diagram illustrating a system 80 for HTS 10. A starter air valve (SAV) 84 selectively connects the inlet 32 ​​of the HTS 10 to an air supply unit 85. The air supply unit 85 may include an ambient air supply unit 86 having an ambient air valve 82 and a pressurized air supply unit 90 having a pressurized air valve 88. Optionally, the air supply unit 85 may also include a vent air supply unit 94 having a vent valve 92. That is, each part of the air supply unit 85 may include valves, shown as an ambient air valve 82, a pressurized air valve 88, and a vent valve 92 upstream of the SAV 84. For example, the dashed lines shown between the ambient air supply unit 86, the ambient air valve 82, the SAV 84, and the inlet 32 ​​represent airflow lines. Similar dashed lines shown also represent airflow lines.

[0056] The controller 87 can communicate with the SAV 84, the ambient air valve 82, and the pressurized air valve 88. The controller 87 can also communicate with the vent valve 92. In other words, the controller 87 is configured to actuate the SAV 84, the ambient air valve 82, and the pressurized air valve 88 between open and closed positions.

[0057] Furthermore, the controller 87 can also communicate with the HTS 10. Specifically, the controller 87 can selectively actuate the electric motor 44 and the clutch assembly 50 at least. In other words, the controller 87 can control the electrical energy supplied to the electric motor 44. The controller 87 can also control the clutch assembly 50 to selectively engage or disengage the motor drive shaft 45 of the electric motor 44. Figure 2 ) and the turbine shaft 40 rotatably connected to the turbine component 38 Figure 2 The dotted lines shown between controller 87, ambient air valve 82, SAV 84, vent valve 92, motor 44, and clutch assembly 50 represent their electrical connections.

[0058] In turbo engine 14 ( Figure 1 During startup, controller 87 opens starter air valve (SAV) 84 and pressurized air valve 88 to fluidly connect inlet 32 ​​of HTS 10 to pressurized air supply unit 90. Pressurized air supply unit 90 may include, but is not limited to, ground-operated air vehicles, auxiliary power units, or cross-vent starters from already operating engines. Pressurized air from pressurized air supply unit 90 is received at inlet 32 ​​and flows through main airflow path 36. Figure 2 The turbine component 38 rotates. The turbine component 38 can be selectively coupled to the turbine engine 14. Figure 1 One or more parts of ) are used to start the turbine engine 14.

[0059] During one or more other portions of the operating cycle of the turbine engine 14 (including maintenance cycles), the controller 87 can supply electrical power to the electric motor 44 and operatively connect the electric motor 44 to the turbine component 38 by engaging the clutch assembly 50. The controller 87 can also open the SAV 84 and the ambient air valve 82 to fluidly connect the inlet 32 ​​of the housing 30 of the HTS 10 to the ambient air supply device 86. The ambient air supply device 86 can include ambient air at atmospheric pressure. In a non-limiting example, the ambient air can be air from other parts of the engine 10 outside the engine core. Rotation of the turbine component 38 by the electric motor 44 draws ambient air into the inlet 32 ​​of the HTS 10. The ambient air drawn in through the turbine component 38 flows through a main airflow path 36 partially defined by the electric motor 44. Figure 2 From inlet 32 ​​to outlet 34, the airflow passes through the main airflow path 36. Figure 2 44. Ambient airflow cooling electric motor.

[0060] Optionally, the vent air supply device 94 can be fluidly connected to the inlet 32 ​​of the HTS 10 via the SAV 84 and the vent valve 92. The vent air supplied by the vent air supply device 94 can be used to cool the electric motor 44, assist the turbine component 38 in rotation, or any combination thereof. In a non-limiting example, the vent air from the vent air supply device 94 may include vent air from another part of the turbine engine 14. Figure 1 ).

[0061] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of a method 100 for operating a cooling circuit for an electric motor 44 of the HTS 10. The cooling circuit is in thermal communication with the electric motor 44. The cooling circuit may include an ambient air supply device 86, an ambient air valve 82, a SAV 84, and a main airflow path 36 defined between an inlet 32 ​​and an outlet 34 of the housing 30. At 102, the ambient air valve 82 and the SAV 84 are actuated from a closed position or moved to an open position. As used herein, the term "open position" may be a partially open position or a fully open position. The actuation or opening / closing of the ambient air valve 82 and the SAV 84 may be determined by a controller 87.

[0062] At position 104, the turbine component 38 is rotated by the electric motor 44. That is, the clutch assembly 50 operably and selectively engages the motor drive shaft 45 and the turbine shaft 40 to rotate the turbine component 38 via the electric motor 44. For example, the controller 87 supplies power to the electric motor 44, which rotates the motor drive shaft 45. When engaged with the controller 87, the clutch assembly 50 operably and rotatably engages the motor drive shaft 45 and the turbine shaft 40 of the turbine component 38. Rotation of the turbine shaft 40 can be used to start the turbine engine 14 or to rotate parts of the turbine engine 14.

[0063] At point 106, ambient air is drawn in through the cooling circuit. That is, ambient air from the ambient air supply unit 86 is conveyed through the inlet 32 ​​of the ambient air valve 82, SAV 84, and HTS 10, flowing through the main airflow path 36 to the outlet 34. Multiple blades 39, rotated by the motor-driven shaft 45, draw ambient air from the ambient air supply unit into the main airflow path 36. As the ambient air flows through the main airflow path 36, partially defined by the electric motor 44, the ambient air is conveyed across the outer surface 47 of the electric motor 44, thus defining a cooling airflow for the electric motor 44.

[0064] In various embodiments of method 100, certain steps (or operations) may be omitted or added, certain steps may be combined, certain steps may be executed simultaneously, certain steps may be executed concurrently, certain steps may be split into multiple steps, certain steps may be executed in different orders, or certain steps or a series of steps may be re-executed in an iterative manner.

[0065] Optionally, during method 100, the venting air valve 92 may be closed or opened.

[0066] During method 100, the pressure valve 88 is in the closed position. Optionally, prior to method 100, the pressure valve 88 may be moved to the closed position by the controller 87.

[0067] Benefits associated with the aspects disclosed herein include a hybrid air turbine starter capable of routing air supplied to the HTS through a cooling circuit to cool the electric motor during operation. This allows for a reduction in the length of the electric motor while simultaneously achieving motor cooling. Furthermore, this cooling circuit design provides for reduced overall component weight and size. The benefit of the electric motor in the HTS is that it can be used to rotate the turbine shaft to start the engine, or to rotate and maintain other engine components.

[0068] Furthermore, by cooling the electric motor during operation via a cooling circuit, the electric motor can be configured to operate for a longer period of time before pausing operation to cool. This written description uses examples to illustrate the aspects of the disclosure described herein, including best practices, and also enables those skilled in the art to practice the aspects of this disclosure, including making and using any apparatus or system and performing any combined methods. The patentable scope of the aspects of this disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that have minor differences from the literal language of the claims.

[0069] Another aspect of the invention is provided by the subject matter of the following clause: an air turbine starter comprising: a housing defining an interior; a turbine component having a plurality of blades located within the housing, wherein the turbine component is rotatably coupled to a turbine shaft; an electric motor located within the housing and having a motor drive shaft; a clutch assembly located within the housing and selectively coupling the turbine shaft to the motor drive shaft; and an air supply device fluidly coupled to a main airflow path that transmits air across the plurality of blades and a cooling circuit in thermal communication with the motor.

[0070] A system includes: an air turbine starter comprising: a housing defining an airflow path between an inlet and an outlet; a turbine shaft within the housing; a plurality of blades coupled to the turbine shaft and disposed in a main airflow path; an electric motor within the housing, the outer surface of the electric motor defining a portion of the main airflow path, the electric motor having a drive shaft; a clutch assembly within the housing for selectively engaging the drive shaft and the turbine shaft; a valve for fluidly connecting an ambient air supply to the inlet when open; and a controller for opening the valve when the electric motor is started, allowing ambient air to flow through the main airflow path and over the outer surface of the electric motor.

[0071] In any of the foregoing provisions, the air supply device is an ambient air supply device, and the cooling circuit includes an ambient air valve, a starter air valve, and a main airflow path.

[0072] In any of the foregoing provisions, the outer surface of the electric motor defines at least a portion of the main airflow path.

[0073] The system according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes a controller operatively coupled to the starter air valve, the ambient air valve, and the pressurized air valve, wherein the controller is configured to actuate the starter air valve, the ambient air valve, and the pressurized air valve between an open position and a closed position.

[0074] In any of the foregoing provisions of the system, the starter air valve and the ambient air valve are located upstream of the inlet of the main airflow path.

[0075] A system includes an air turbine starter comprising: a housing defining an interior and an exterior; an electric motor having a motor drive shaft, wherein the electric motor is located inside the housing and wherein the electric motor includes an outer surface spaced apart from an inner surface of the housing; a turbine component located axially behind the electric motor, the turbine component having a plurality of blades, wherein the turbine component is coupled to a turbine shaft; a clutch assembly selectively coupling the motor drive shaft and the turbine shaft; and a main airflow path coupling an inlet and an outlet, wherein the main airflow path, the inlet, and the outlet are defined by at least a portion of the housing, and wherein at least a portion of the main airflow path is further defined by the outer surface of the electric motor.

[0076] The system according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes an ambient air valve and a starter air valve located outside the housing, wherein the ambient air valve and the starter air valve are selectively fluidly connected to the inlet and the ambient air supply device.

[0077] The system according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes a controller that communicates with the starter air valve and the ambient air valve, wherein the controller actuates the starter air valve and the ambient air valve between an open position and a closed position.

[0078] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the system wherein the controller communicates with the clutch assembly to selectively engage the motor drive shaft and the turbine shaft, and wherein the controller is configured to control the electrical energy supplied to the electric motor.

[0079] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the main airflow path has a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is defined from the inlet to the upstream face of the turbine component, and the second portion is defined from the upstream face of the turbine component to the outlet.

[0080] In any of the foregoing provisions, the turbine shaft and the motor drive shaft are axially spaced apart.

[0081] A turbine engine includes: an engine core having a compression section, a combustion section, and a turbine arranged in a series flow configuration, the engine core having an engine drive shaft; and a system including: an air turbine starter comprising: a housing defining an interior; a turbine located within the interior and having a turbine shaft and a plurality of blades coupled to the turbine shaft; an electric motor located within the interior and having an electric motor drive shaft; a clutch assembly located within the interior and selectively coupling the turbine shaft to a machine shaft; an air supply device fluidly coupled to a main airflow path that delivers air across the plurality of blades and a cooling circuit in thermal communication with the electric motor; a valve selectively fluidly coupled to an inlet; and a controller operatively coupled to the valve.

[0082] The system according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the valve is an ambient air valve, the system further includes a pressurized air valve for fluidly connecting a pressurized air supply to an inlet when open, and the system further includes an air starter valve between the ambient air valve, the pressurized air valve and the inlet.

[0083] The turbine engine according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the outer surface of the electric motor defines at least a portion of the main airflow path.

[0084] The turbine engine according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the valve is an ambient air valve, the system further includes a pressurized air valve for fluidly connecting a pressurized air supply to an inlet when open, and the system further includes an air starter valve between the ambient air valve, the pressurized air valve and the inlet.

[0085] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the turbine engine is wherein the controller is operatively coupled to the starter air valve and the ambient air valve, wherein the controller is configured to actuate the starter air valve and the ambient air valve between an open position and a closed position.

[0086] In any of the foregoing provisions, the turbine engine has the starter air valve and the ambient air valve located upstream of the inlet.

[0087] The turbine engine according to any of the foregoing provisions further includes a starter air valve, an ambient air valve, and a pressurized air valve upstream of the inlet, wherein the pressurized air valve and the starter air valve are fluidly connected to the inlet and the pressurized air supply device, and the ambient air valve and the starter air valve are fluidly connected to the inlet and the ambient air supply device.

[0088] The turbine engine according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the turbine shaft and the motor drive shaft are axially spaced apart.

[0089] In any of the foregoing provisions, the turbine engine is wherein the clutch assembly is located axially between the turbine shaft and the motor drive shaft.

[0090] The turbine engine according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the air turbine starter further includes an output shaft coupled to the turbine shaft, wherein the output shaft is selectively coupled to the engine drive shaft.

[0091] A method for cooling an electric motor of an air turbine starter for a turbine engine, the method comprising: opening an ambient air valve and a starter air valve to fluidly connect an ambient air supply to an inlet of the air turbine starter; rotating a turbine component of the air turbine starter by engaging a turbine shaft of a turbine component with a motor drive shaft of the electric motor; and allowing ambient air to flow through a main airflow path at least partially defined by the outer surface of the electric motor and the housing of the air turbine starter.

[0092] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the electric motor and turbine components are located inside the housing of the air turbine starter.

[0093] The method described according to any of the foregoing clauses also includes closing the pressurized air valve.

[0094] According to any of the foregoing provisions, the controller actuates the opening of the ambient air valve and the starter air valve, and the rotation of the electric motor causes the motor drive shaft to rotate.

[0095] According to the method described in any of the foregoing clauses, the controller actuates a clutch assembly located axially between the electric motor and the turbine component to operably and selectively engage the turbine shaft with the motor drive shaft.

[0096] In any of the foregoing provisions, the turbine engine is wherein the electric motor defines a portion of the clutch assembly.

[0097] The turbine engine according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the clutch assembly is included in the electric motor.

[0098] According to any of the preceding clauses, a dome wall is disposed inside the turbine engine, wherein the dome wall is configured to guide air from the inlet to the turbine components.

Claims

1. A system comprising: An air turbine starter, comprising: The housing defines the main airflow path between the inlet and outlet; The turbine shaft in the housing; Multiple blades are connected to the turbine shaft and disposed in the main airflow path; An electric motor is located within the housing, the outer surface of which defines a portion of the main airflow path, and the electric motor has a motor drive shaft; The clutch assembly within the housing is used to selectively connect the motor drive shaft and the turbine shaft; A valve, which, when opened, fluidly connects an ambient air supply device to the inlet; and A controller is used to open the valve when the electric motor is started, so that ambient air can flow through the main airflow path and over the outer surface of the electric motor.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The valve is an ambient air valve, and the system also includes a pressurized air valve for fluidly connecting a pressurized air supply device to the inlet when open. The system also includes an air starter valve between the ambient air valve, the pressurized air valve, and the inlet.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein, The controller is operatively connected to the starter air valve, the ambient air valve, and the pressurized air valve, wherein the controller is configured to actuate the starter air valve, the ambient air valve, and the pressurized air valve between an open position and a closed position.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein, The turbine shaft and the motor drive shaft are axially spaced apart.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein, The clutch assembly is located axially between the turbine shaft and the motor drive shaft.

6. A system comprising: An air turbine starter, comprising: A shell that defines the interior and exterior; An electric motor having a motor drive shaft, wherein the electric motor is located inside the housing, and wherein the electric motor includes an outer surface spaced apart from the inner surface of the housing; A turbine component located axially behind the electric motor has multiple blades, wherein the turbine component is coupled to a turbine shaft; A clutch assembly that selectively connects the motor drive shaft and the turbine shaft; and A main airflow path connecting the inlet and the outlet, wherein the main airflow path, the inlet and the outlet are defined by at least a portion of the housing, and wherein at least a portion of the main airflow path is further defined by the outer surface of the electric motor; A valve selectively and fluidly connected to the inlet; and The controller is operatively connected to the valve.

7. The system according to claim 6, wherein, The valve is an ambient air valve, and the system also includes a pressurized air valve to fluidly connect a pressurized air supply device to the inlet when open. The system also includes an air starter valve between the ambient air valve, the pressurized air valve, and the inlet.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein, The controller is operatively connected to the starter air valve, the ambient air valve, and the pressurized air valve, wherein the controller is configured to actuate the starter air valve, the ambient air valve, and the pressurized air valve between an open position and a closed position.

9. The system according to claim 8, wherein, The controller communicates with the clutch assembly to selectively engage the motor drive shaft and the turbine shaft, and wherein the controller is configured to control the electrical energy supplied to the electric motor.

10. The system according to claim 6, wherein, The main airflow path has a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is defined from the inlet to the upstream face of the turbine component, and the second portion is defined from the upstream face of the turbine component to the outlet.

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