Fan and corresponding aircraft

Abstract

A fan (20) comprising: - a drive motor (26), - a shaft (28) connected to the drive motor (26), - a wheel (30) supported by the shaft (28), - a support structure (24) comprising: - an outer body (38), - a channel (40) comprising a side wall (48), wherein the channel (40) together with the outer body (38) defines an interior space (50), and - a receptacle (46) located in the interior space (50) which is in contact with the side wall (48), wherein the receptacle (46) defines an interior volume, - at least one ball bearing (32, 34) arranged between the shaft (28) and the support structure (24), and - a sensor (36) for measuring a mechanical parameter that is representative of the dynamic behavior of the bearing(s) (32, 34), wherein the sensor (36) is arranged in the interior volume defined by the receptacle (46). is.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a fan. The invention also relates to a corresponding aircraft.

[0002] Aircraft ventilation systems include fans to ensure air circulation in the ventilation ducts. These fans rotate at high speeds, ranging from 10,000 to 30,000 revolutions per minute. Furthermore, high reliability of the fans is desirable.

[0003] It is known to propose a fan that includes a shaft supporting a wheel, which is carried by two ball bearings. The bearings are lubricated to prevent them from overheating and failing quickly.

[0004] Depending on the application, such a fan ensures air circulation for pressurization and passenger comfort (air monitoring system), cooling of components (electronic racks, food refrigeration, etc.), or air exchange (lavatory ventilation). For this reason, a failure of such a fan is highly detrimental to the aircraft in which it is installed. Therefore, these fans are carefully maintained, regularly inspected, and frequently have worn parts, especially ball bearings, replaced before they become damaged.

[0005] Such a program for the maintenance and premature replacement of wear parts is costly for the operation of the aircraft.

[0006] Document WO 03 / 020582 A also describes a monitoring device for fan damage, featuring a sensor mounted on the fan's external structure. This device allows for the detection of fan malfunctions, particularly repeated collisions of the fan blades with the fan's external duct, which can generate smoke.

[0007] However, the aforementioned device does not allow for warnings of malfunctions before they occur. Therefore, its application is difficult. Above all, it necessitates the implementation of costly preventative maintenance.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for a fan that is easier to use.

[0009] A fan is proposed comprising a drive motor, a shaft connected to the drive motor, a wheel supported by the shaft, and a support structure. The support structure has an outer body, a channel encompassing a side wall (the channel and the outer body defining an interior space), and a receptacle located within the interior space and in contact with the side wall (the receptacle defining an interior volume). The fan includes at least one ball bearing positioned between the shaft and the support structure, and a sensor for measuring a mechanical parameter representative of the dynamic behavior of the bearing(s), the sensor being located within the interior volume defined by the receptacle.

[0010] According to special embodiments, the fan has one or more of the following features, which may be used alone or in any technically possible combination: – The recording includes an electronic card, the electronic card containing the sensor. – The recording features a processing chain connected to the sensor, which is capable of performing a Fourier decomposition of the bearing's vibration behavior. – The processing chain is capable of performing a Fourier decomposition of the bearing's vibration behavior for frequencies between 10 Hz and 6 kHz. – The processing chain is capable of performing a Fourier decomposition of the bearing's vibration behavior for frequencies between 10 Hz and 20 kHz. – The processing chain is able to calculate at least one mechanical energy associated with the vibration behavior of the bearing in a frequency range and to compare the calculated mechanical energy with a reference level. – The reference level is the mechanical energy associated with the vibration behavior of a fan's bearing during normal operation in the considered frequency range. – The recording includes an electronic map, the electronic map containing the sensor and the processing chain. – The sensor is a microelectromechanical system. – The fan has a single sensor for measuring a mechanical parameter that is representative of the dynamic behavior of the bearing or bearings.

[0011] The invention also relates to an aircraft that has a fan as described above.

[0012] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from reading the embodiments described below as a non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which are:

[0013] Fig. 1 a schematic representation of an aircraft incorporating a fan,

[0014] Fig. 2 a longitudinal section of the fan of Fig. 1, wherein the fan includes an electronic card, and

[0015] Fig. 3 A schematic representation of the components of the electronic card.

[0016] An aircraft 10 is on the Fig. 1 shown.

[0017] An aircraft 10 This could be, for example, an airplane, a helicopter, or a drone.

[0018] According to the example of Fig. 1 is the aircraft 10 a scheduled airliner.

[0019] In the specific case described, the aircraft 10 an electrical supply network 12 , an on-board equipment 14 , one outside the aircraft 10 outgoing air duct 16 and a fan 20on, which is at least partially located in the air duct 16 is arranged and able to operate in the air duct 16 to create an airflow.

[0020] In another example, air is drawn from the cargo area and expelled back into the cargo area. This is particularly common with fans. 20 The case is that the electronic components need cooling.

[0021] The electrical supply network 12 is a high-voltage electrical network capable of providing three-phase alternating current with a voltage of approximately 115 V (volts) or 200 V and a current of approximately 10 A (amperes).

[0022] Further voltage and / or current values ​​are specified according to the fan under consideration. 20 possible.

[0023] The electrical supply network 12 includes at least three connection terminals that allow the fan to be connected 20 to connect with each phase.

[0024] According to another version, the supply network 12 a DC type power grid (according to the English term "Direct Current") and capable of supplying a direct current.

[0025] The supply network is advantageously designed. 12 a power grid of the HVDC type (according to the English term "High Voltage Direct Current") and capable of supplying a high-voltage direct current.

[0026] According to this design variant, the electrical supply network includes 12 at least two terminal blocks that allow the fan 20 to connect.

[0027] The on-board equipment 14 is equipment of the aircraft that needs to be cooled 10 or equipment that is used during at least some operational phases of the aircraft 10 Air is required for its function (pressurization...). An example of such equipment is an on-board computer.

[0028] On the Fig. 1. The air duct extends 16 approximately along the longitudinal axis X of the aircraft's movement 10 .

[0029] The air duct 16 features an air inlet 16E , located in the front part of the aircraft 10 is arranged to have an air outlet 16S , located in the rear part of the aircraft 10 is arranged, and a cylindrical section in which a heat exchanger is located. 24 is arranged transversely.

[0030] The air intake 16E and the air outlet 16S are designed to circulate an airflow inside the duct 16 to allow.

[0031] The heat exchanger is thermally connected to the on-board equipment. 14 connected and allows the equipment 14 to cool when the heat exchanger is exposed to an airflow that is in the air duct 16 circulates.

[0032] The fan 20 is on the Fig. 2 shown in more detail.

[0033] The fan 20 has a supporting structure 24 , a drive motor 26 , a wave 28 , a wheel 30 , two ball bearings 32 , 34 and a breakdown detection system 58 on.

[0034] The supporting structure 24 has an outer body 38 , a canal 40 , a head 42 , arms 44 and a recording 46 on.

[0035] The canal 40 has a side wall 48 on.

[0036] The canal 40 is a tubular channel that extends along a longitudinal axis X.

[0037] The canal 40 limited by the outer body 38 an interior 50 .

[0038] The head 42 a frame 52up, that's a disguise 54 features. The canal 40 is with the frame 52 firmly connected to form the support structure 24 to form.

[0039] The head 42 is connected to the channel 40 based on the arms 44 connected in such a way that between the canal 40 and the head 42 a ring-shaped area 56 is limited.

[0040] Each of the poor 44 is according to the example of Fig. 2 a transverse arm extending in two transverse directions, a first transverse direction Y and a second transverse direction Z.

[0041] The recording 46 It has the shape of a protrusion on the outside.

[0042] The recording 46 defines an interior space which, in the specific case of the Fig. 2 exactly the interior 50 corresponds.

[0043] The recording 46The breakdown detection system indicates 58 on.

[0044] The breakdown detection system 58 is an electronic card 59 , which carries various components that are located on the Fig. 3 can be seen.

[0045] The electronic card 59 exhibits the general shape of a plate extending in a normal plane to the first transverse direction Y.

[0046] The electronic card 59 is located inside 50 .

[0047] The electronic card 59 has a sensor 36 and a processing chain 60 on.

[0048] The sensor 36 indicates an exit 36S on.

[0049] The sensor 36 is a sensor for measuring a mechanical parameter that is relevant to the dynamic behavior of the bearing or bearings 32 , 34 is representative.

[0050] For example, the one from the camps 32 , 34 sent and along the body of the fan 20 transmitted vibration is an important factor in the dynamic behavior of the bearing or bearings. 32 , 34 representative mechanical parameter.

[0051] This means the sensor 36 able to send a signal to the output 36S to deliver a result that is representative of the measured mechanical parameter.

[0052] According to the example of Fig. 2 is the sensor 36 an electromechanical microsystem.

[0053] An electromechanical microsystem is a microsystem comprising one or more mechanical elements that use electricity as an energy source to perform a sensor and / or actuator function, with at least one structure having micrometer dimensions. The system's function is partly determined by the shape of this structure. The term microelectromechanical systems is the French version of the English abbreviation MEMS (for "microelectromechanical systems").

[0054] In one variant, the sensor 36 an accelerometer.

[0055] According to another embodiment, the sensor 36 a piezoelectric sensor.

[0056] The processing chain 60 features a sampler 62 and a calculation module 64 on.

[0057] The sampler 62 has an entrance 62E and an exit 62S on.

[0058] The entrance 62E of the sampler 62 is with the outcome 36S the sensor 36 connected, whereas the outcome 62S of the sampler 62 with the calculation module 64 is connected.

[0059] The sampler 62 is capable of sampling the data from the sensor 36 to carry out the upcoming signal

[0060] The sampling frequencies range between 15 kHz (kilohertz) and 50 kHz inclusive, depending on requirements and application.

[0061] A ratio of 2.6 is typically used between the sampling frequency and the maximum frequency of the frequency measurement range in which a Fourier transform is calculated. For a frequency measurement range between 10 Hz and 6 kHz, the sampling frequency is usually chosen to be 15 kHz, whereas for a frequency measurement range between 10 Hz and 20 kHz (inclusive), the sampling frequency is typically chosen to be 50 kHz.

[0062] For example, the sampler 62 able to perform sampling at a frequency of 20 kHz (kilohertz), so that at the output of the sampler 62 20,000 samples will be taken.

[0063] The calculation module 64 has an entrance 64E and an exit 64S open. The entrance 64E of the calculation module 64 is with the outcome 62S of the sampler 62 tied together.

[0064] The calculation module 64 is able to perform a Fourier transformation directly from the samples of the captured parameter.

[0065] In other words, the calculation module 64 is capable of performing a Fourier decomposition of the sampler 62 to perform analyses on the supplied samples in order to obtain Fourier coefficients for different frequency components.

[0066] For example, the frequency components for which a Fourier coefficient is determined by the calculation module have a frequency between 10 Hz and 6 kHz or between 10 Hz and 20 kHz inclusive, depending on requirements and application.

[0067] Furthermore, the interval between the frequency components is chosen to obtain between 200 and 1600 different coefficients. For this purpose, the interval lies between 1 Hz and 5 Hz inclusive.

[0068] The calculation module 64 is able to calculate a multitude of criteria, with each criterion indicating a malfunction of the bearings 32 , 34 is representative.

[0069] Each criterion consists of measuring the output of the fan. 20 to compare mechanical energy produced in a frequency range with a reference level.

[0070] Depending on the case, the frequency range is either specific or broad.

[0071] In the case of a specific frequency range, the mechanical energy is determined by calculating the sum of the squares of the coefficients of the Fourier decomposition whose corresponding frequency is contained in the specific frequency range.

[0072] For example, the specific frequency range is the range that includes the frequencies between 180 Hz and 220 Hz inclusive. The mechanical energy is therefore calculated by summing the squares of each of the coefficients of the Fourier decomposition whose frequency lies between 180 Hz and 220 Hz inclusive.

[0073] The mechanical energy is then compared in the frequency domain to a reference level corresponding to a normally functioning fan. If the calculated mechanical energy exceeds the reference level, this indicates bearing wear. 32 , 34 to.

[0074] The specific frequency ranges are determined depending on a specific malfunction, so that if a criterion assigned to a specific frequency range is not verified, it is possible to determine the type of malfunction.

[0075] Such a criterion is subsequently referred to as a "local criterion".

[0076] If the frequency range is wide, generally all analyzed frequencies, i.e., between 10 Hz and 6 kHz or between 10 Hz and 20 kHz, the mechanical energy is also calculated. This mechanical energy is then compared to a reference level corresponding to a normally functioning fan. If the calculated mechanical energy exceeds this level, it indicates bearing wear. 32 , 34 to.

[0077] Such a criterion is subsequently referred to as a "global criterion".

[0078] Preferably, the calculation module 64able to process a variety of local criteria and the global criterion to identify every possible malfunction.

[0079] The engine 26 is removed from the frame 52 worn and is inside the fairing 54 housed there. Furthermore, the engine 26 in the axis of the fan 20 arranged.

[0080] The rotor of the motor 26 is with the wave 28 firmly connected, whereas the stator of the motor 26 with the frame 52 is firmly attached.

[0081] The wave 28 is the drive motor 26 coupled.

[0082] The wheel 30 is from one end of the wave 28 worn.

[0083] In the illustrated embodiment, the wheel 30 the shape of the head 42 on. The wheel 30 is on the side of the head 42arranged, from which the air is drawn in.

[0084] The two ball bearings 32 and 34 carry the wave 28 .

[0085] The two camps 32 and 34 are on one side and the other side of the engine 26 arranged.

[0086] The first camp 32 , also known as front bearing 32 The term refers to the area between the engine and the motor. 26 and the wheel 30 arranged.

[0087] The second camp 34 , also known as rear storage 34 This refers to the relationship between the engine and the engine. 26 opposite the wheel 30 arranged.

[0088] Each camp 32 , 34 has an outer ring 32A , 34A , which in relation to the frame 42 is rotatably connected, and has an inner ring 32B , 34B , the one with the wave 28is rotatably connected, as well as bearing elements, especially balls. 32C , 34C , which are between the two rings 32A , 34A , 32B , 34B are arranged.

[0089] A ball bearing cage formed by a cylindrical shell in which receiving recesses for the balls are located. 32C , 34C being trained ensured an even distribution of the balls. 32C , 34C and correct positioning of the balls 32C , 34C between the two rings 32A , 34A , 32B , 34B .

[0090] The rear camp 34 is axially equipped with elastic seals 70 equipped to surround the wave 28 are arranged and between the outer ring 34A of the second camp 34 and the frame 42 fit snugly. Such elastic seals 70form a spring and press the outer ring 34A of the second camp 34 towards the bike 30 .

[0091] Now we will explain how the fan works. 20 described.

[0092] The sensor 36 constantly measures a value for the dynamic behavior of the bearings 32 , 34 representative parameter.

[0093] The sensor 36 The measured parameters are continuously updated by the processing chain. 60 processed, which monitors both local and global criteria.

[0094] In other words, the fan 20 allowed, damage to the bearings 32 to determine the increase in vibration level in specific frequency bands.

[0095] Specifically, the fan allows 20 , to meet two special needs.

[0096] On the one hand, the fan allows 20 , to identify breakdowns that are due to bearing wear and tear 32 This applies to situations where the equipment's functionality is not compromised. In such cases, a warning is sent to the operator so they can schedule maintenance to replace the equipment before the aircraft's functionality is affected. 10 is affected.

[0097] On the other hand, the fan allows 20 , to identify breakdowns that are due to bearing wear and tear 32 This applies when the functionality of the equipment is called into question. In such a case, the equipment is shut down to prevent it from affecting the aircraft's operation. 10 Redundant equipment is also used to replace faulty equipment.

[0098] The fan 20 It has the advantage of being more user-friendly.

[0099] The sensor 36 is in the fan 30 integrated, which leads to advantages in mass and volume.

[0100] Furthermore, the entire data collection chain 60 and the sensor 36 in the electronic map 58 integrated, which is easy to install.

[0101] Furthermore, a wire connection is made between the sensor 36 and the electronic card was avoided, especially since this wire connection is often unreliable.

[0102] According to a particular embodiment, the sensor 36 The only thing is the implementation of the fan. 20 additionally made easier.

[0103] According to another particular embodiment, the breakdown detection system features 58 Furthermore, it has an anti-recovery filter located between the sensor. 36 and the sampler 62is arranged. Depending on the case, the filter is either an additional physical element or a component of the calculation module. 64 implemented software. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0104] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0105] WO 03 / 020582 A

[0006]

Claims

[1] Fan ( 20 ), showing: – a drive motor ( 26 ), – one with the drive motor ( 26 ) connected wave ( 28 ), – one from the wave ( 28 ) worn wheel ( 30 ), – a support structure ( 24 ), wherein the support structure ( 24 ) shows: – an external body ( 38 ), – a channel ( 40 ), which has one side wall ( 48 ) includes the channel ( 40 ) with the outer body ( 38 ) an interior space ( 50 ) limited, and – one in the interior ( 50 ) located recording ( 46 ), which are in contact with the side wall ( 48 ) is, where the recording ( 46 ) an internal volume limited, – at least one between the wave ( 28 ) and the supporting structure ( 24 ) arranged ball bearing ( 32 , 34 ), and – a sensor ( 36 ) to measure a mechanical parameter that is relevant to the dynamic behavior of the bearing or bearings ( 32 , 34 ) is representative, where the sensor ( 36 ) in the recording ( 46 ) is arranged within a limited internal volume. [2] Fan according to claim 1, wherein the intake ( 46 ) an electronic card ( 59 ) exhibits, the electronic card ( 59 ) the sensor ( 36 ) exhibits. [3] Fan according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the intake ( 46 ) a processing chain ( 60 ) exhibits which is connected to the sensor ( 36 ) is connected and capable of performing a Fourier decomposition of the vibration behavior of the bearing ( 32 , 34 to carry out. [4] Fan according to claim 3, wherein the processing chain ( 60 ) is able to perform a Fourier decomposition of the vibration behavior of the bearing ( 32 , 34) for frequencies between Hz and 20 kHz, preferably between 10 Hz and 6 kHz. [5] Fan according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the processing chain ( 60 ) is able to at least one of the vibration behavior of the bearing ( 32 , 34 ) to calculate the mechanical energy assigned in a frequency range and to compare the calculated mechanical energy with a reference level. [6] Fan according to claim 5, wherein the reference level corresponds to the vibration behavior of the bearing ( 32 , 34 ) of a fan in its intended operation within the considered frequency range is the mechanical energy associated with that fan. [7] Fan according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the intake ( 46 ) an electronic card ( 59 ) exhibits, the electronic card ( 59 ) the sensor ( 36 ) and the processing chain ( 60 ) exhibits. [8] Fan according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sensor ( 36 ) is a microelectromechanical system. [9] Fan according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the fan ( 20 ) a single sensor ( 36 ) for measuring a mechanical parameter that is relevant to the dynamic behavior of the bearing or bearings ( 32 , 34 ) is representative. [10] aircraft ( 10 ), which has a fan ( 20 ) according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

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