Equipment, ductwork and methods

Abstract

Equipment, duct equipment and methods According to the present disclosure, there is provided ductwork for influencing a liquid flow, the ductwork comprising a first duct section arranged to receive a liquid flow, the first duct section defining a first direction through the first duct section from a liquid inlet end to a liquid outlet end, and a second duct section defining a second direction through the second duct section from the liquid inlet end to the liquid outlet end, the second duct section comprising a vortex generating surface arranged to induce vortices in the liquid flow passing through the first duct section, and the ductwork further comprising a rotor housed in one of the duct sections.

Description

Technical Field

[0001]

[0001] This disclosure relates to equipment and duct equipment for affecting fluid flow, or specifically liquid flow, and related crafts and methods.

Background Art

[0002]

[0002] Aircraft and ships are equipped with components that are exposed to fluid flow or utilize fluid flow. Certain components are configured to interact with the fluid flow, including guiding it, in order to facilitate the generation of thrust or lift. Increasing or maintaining the magnitude of the generated thrust or lift while using an equal or lesser amount of fuel is important in reducing carbon emissions. Therefore, techniques for improving the interaction of fluids with craft components are of interest in this field.

[0003]

[0003] The interaction between craft components and fluid flow results in a region of turbulent flow (often turbulent) known as the wake downstream of the craft. In many cases, the craft must maintain a safe distance so as not to be obstructed by the wake. Techniques for reducing or otherwise influencing the wake are of interest in this field.

[0004]

[0004] The interaction between craft components and fluid flow results in noise. Techniques for reducing or otherwise influencing the noise are of interest in this field, for example, to reduce interference with aquatic life in the field of ships or to reduce environmental noise in the field of aircraft.

[0005]

[0005] The object of the present invention is to provide improvements and / or its methods, and / or to address one or more of the problems described above or elsewhere, or at least to provide alternative systems and / or methods.

Summary of the Invention

[0006]

[0006] The present invention provides equipment and methods as described in the appended claims. Other features of the present invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and the following description.

[0007]

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a ductwork for influencing a fluid flow is provided, the ductwork comprising a first duct section arranged to receive a fluid flow, and a second duct section which defines a first direction through the first duct section from a fluid inlet end to a fluid outlet end and a second direction through the second duct section from a fluid inlet end to a fluid outlet end, the second duct section comprising a vortex generating surface which is arranged to induce vortices in the fluid flow through the first duct section.

[0008]

[0008] Duct sections are advantageous for guiding fluid flow and housing components. Providing vortex generating surfaces is beneficial for reducing and / or minimizing the magnitude of the wake induced by the duct section. Vortex generating surfaces also improve the properties of the fluid flow, and as a result, for example, interaction with the subsequent rotor results in improved rotor efficiency and / or thrust generation. In one example, a vortex generating surface may be configured to interact with the fluid flow to induce vortices such that the properties of the fluid flow include a magnitude of vorticity. In one example, the duct section interacts with the fluid flow to induce a first set of fluid properties, and the vortex generating surface interacts with the fluid flow to induce a second set of fluid properties. The second set of fluid properties may include an increase in the magnitude of vorticity of the fluid flow. Surprisingly and advantageously, the magnitude of the wake vorticity is thus reduced.

[0009]

[0009] The duct section may be a hollow cylinder, tube, or ring. The duct section may be a section or region of a larger duct, cylinder, tube, or ring. The cross-section of the duct may be any shape, such as a square or rectangle, but is typically arc-shaped, such as circular or elliptical.

[0010]

[0010] In one example, the vortex generating surface is configured to induce a plurality of spaced vortices. The spatial separation of the vortices can correspond to the shape of the vortex generating surface. The plurality of vortices may be periodic. In one example, the vortex generating surface comprises a series of protrusions. In one example, the protrusions are sawtooth and / or wavy. In one embodiment, the protrusions may have length and height. The length may extend between the sides of the protrusions. The series of protrusions may be substantially aligned side by side; that is, the protrusions may be aligned laterally. The protrusions may be aligned laterally only, and may extend in only one dimension or direction (e.g., along a line, edge, or curve), and may not extend within a 2D surface or form an array distributed across a 2D surface. The protrusions may be curved along their length. In one example, the spatial separation of the vortices may be proportional to the spatial separation of the protrusions. In one example, each protrusion is configured to induce a vortex in the fluid flow.

[0011]

[0011] The projections can protrude in a direction substantially opposite to the first direction. That is, the height may be parallel to the first direction, and the projections may have a base and a tip, with the direction from the base to the tip being substantially opposite to the first direction. The base of the projection may be aligned laterally. A series of projections may form at least partially continuous wavy profiles. That is, a wave shape may be formed, which may be curved, sawtooth, or ridged. The projections may be adjacent to each other so as to have no gaps between them. At least partially continuous wavy profiles of laterally aligned projections have been found to be a very advantageous configuration of projections for inducing vortices in the fluid flow.

[0012]

[0012] In one example, the vortex generating surface is a ring or otherwise has a cross-sectional profile similar to that of a duct section. In this way, a vortex generating surface having a cross-sectional profile similar to that of a duct section can be provided. This is advantageous for inducing vortices in the fluid flow through the first duct section.

[0013]

[0013] In one example, the second duct section is attached to and supported by the first duct section, and / or formed integrally with it. The second duct section and the first duct section may be a single, integrally formed unit. Alternatively, the second duct section and the first duct section may be separate parts configured to be assembled to form a single unit.

[0014]

[0014] In this way, the second duct section can be attached to the existing first duct section, for example, by a retrofit process. In this way, a vortex generating surface can be provided on the existing first duct section. Alternatively, the first and second duct sections can be provided as a single unit. This allows the vortex generating surface to be positioned optimally for interacting with the fluid flow. Furthermore, this structure results in a robust duct system.

[0015]

[0015] In one example, the second duct section is aligned with and / or coaxial with the first duct section.

[0016]

[0016] Advantageously, in this way, the second duct section, and therefore the vortex generating surface, is well positioned to interact with the fluid flow and influence the fluid flow in order to induce vortices within the fluid flow through the first duct section.

[0017]

[0017] In one example, the ductwork further comprises a rotor housed within a first duct section.

[0018]

[0018] The rotor can be used to generate power and / or thrust. Ducted systems including the rotor improve rotor efficiency and also lead to a reduction in the size of the wake generated by the rotor. In one example, the rotor is a propeller and / or turbine rotor. Advantageously, by housing the rotor in a duct, also known as a cylindrical shroud, thrust loss from the tips of the rotor blades is reduced. Ducted rotors can be significantly more efficient than open rotors. Improved performance is observed because the outward flow carries more kinetic energy.

[0019]

[0019] Further advantages can be obtained, for example, by reducing rotor blade tip loss, ducted rotors are more efficient in generating thrust than open rotors of similar diameter, especially at low speeds and high static thrust levels; by appropriately sizing the ductwork, ducted rotors can be adjusted to allow the rotor to operate more efficiently at higher air velocities than open rotors; for the same static thrust, ducted rotors have a smaller diameter than open rotors, enabling smaller equipment; ducted rotors are quieter than open rotors, as they shield blade noise and reduce the tip velocity and tip vortex intensity that contribute to noise generation; ducted rotors can enable thrust vectoring of a limited amount, which is not well suited to conventional propellers, and ducted rotors offer improved safety on land and underwater.

[0020]

[0020] In relation to the above, the vortex generating surface contributes to the identified advantages in that it induces vortices in the flow through the duct and rotor, which improves rotor efficiency and leads to a reduction in wake size. This mitigates or alleviates some of the known disadvantages of ducted rotors, such as loss of efficiency and increased design complexity, particularly with respect to the precise clearance required between the blade tip and the duct to maintain good efficiency in ducted rotors. Thus, the combination of a vortex generating surface and a ducted rotor is particularly advantageous because the vortex generating surface can be used, in particular, to offset the disadvantages of the ducted rotor.

[0021]

[0021] In one example, the second duct section is located upstream of the first duct section along the first direction.

[0022]

[0022] In this way, the first duct section and the second duct section are separated along the first direction. As a result, vortices induced by the vortex generating surface reach the first passage section downstream. This is advantageous in reducing wake induced by the duct section. This is also advantageous in reducing wake induced by any components such as rotors housed in the duct section and in improving rotor efficiency.

[0023]

[0023] In one example, the second duct section is located at the leading edge of the first duct section. In another example, the vortex generating surface is located at the leading edge of the first duct section.

[0024]

[0024] In this way, improved interaction with the fluid flow is facilitated. Furthermore, in this way, vortices with a favorable orientation are induced. Moreover, the vortex-generating surface can interact with the fluid flow before any downstream surface. The vortices induced by the vortex-generating surface can then pass downstream, where the vortices present in the fluid flow can interact favorably with downstream components to improve their efficiency and / or reduce the size of the wake.

[0025]

[0025] To avoid suspense, in the present invention, the trailing edge of the first duct section and / or any duct section may have no / vacant vortex generation surface. That is, away from the leading edge of the duct facility, for example, behind the leading edge, there may be no vortex generation surface. In this way, the interaction with the fluid flow for generating vortices occurs only at the leading edge of the duct facility, which can bring about an improvement in flow characteristics or efficiency.

[0026]

[0026] In one example, the second duct section is provided upstream of the rotor along the first direction.

[0027]

[0027] Advantageously, the vortices induced in the fluid flow impinge on the rotor and interact with the wake flow generated by the rotor. It has been found that this has the effect of improving the level of thrust or propulsive force generated by the rotor. In addition, this also results in an advantageous reduction in the size of the wake flow structure that follows the craft.

[0028]

[0028] In one example, the protrusions of the vortex generation surface protrude in a direction substantially opposite to the first direction.

[0029]

[0029] In this way, an improved interaction with the fluid flow is promoted. Furthermore, in this way, vortices in an advantageous orientation are induced.

[0030]

[0030] In one example, the first duct section interacts with the fluid flow to induce a first set of fluid characteristics, the vortex generation surface interacts with the fluid flow to induce a second set of fluid characteristics, and the second set of fluid characteristics includes an increase in the magnitude of the vorticity of the fluid flow. Surprisingly and advantageously, this facilitates a reduction in the magnitude of the vorticity of the wake flow.

[0031]

[0031] In one example, the vortex generation surface is configured to induce a plurality of spatially separated vortices, optionally periodic vortices, within the fluid flow. The spatially separated vortices are beneficial for reducing the magnitude of the vorticity of the wake flow and also for reducing drag.

[0032]

[0032] According to a second aspect of the present invention, an aircraft or ship is provided that is equipped with a duct system according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0033]

[0033] Aircraft include airplanes, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, or other machines capable of flight. Vessels include boats, ships, and hovercraft, as well as unmanned watercraft, including those capable of operating underwater. Vessels also include floating platforms, such as oil drilling rigs, which have propulsion or energy generation capabilities by rotors.

[0034]

[0034] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for influencing a fluid flow, the method comprising generating vortices in a fluid flow using a second duct section having a vortex generating surface and receiving the fluid flow in a first duct section.

[0035]

[0035] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, equipment is provided for influencing a liquid flow (in contrast to an air flow), the equipment comprising a first section that can be selectively configured to provide a vortex-generating surface for inducing vortices in the liquid flow.

[0036]

[0036] Such equipment is very advantageous in improving the efficiency of ship propulsion systems and further in reducing the size of the wake generated by the ship. The selective configuration of the vortex generating surface allows the surface to be provided only when necessary or desired, or to the extent or degree required or desired.

[0037]

[0037] In one example, the equipment further comprises a second section, the first section and the second section being movable relative to each other to provide a vortex generating surface.

[0038]

[0038] Thus, the vortex-generating surface does not need to be provided at all times, or it may be movable to a specific position to increase or decrease its interaction with the fluid flow. This is useful for inducing vortices in the liquid flow only when necessary or desired, or to the necessary or desired range or degree.

[0039]

[0039] In one example, the vortex generating surface may be configured to interact with the liquid flow to induce vortices such that the properties of the liquid flow include a magnitude of vorticity. In one example, other surfaces of the equipment interact with the liquid flow to induce a first set of liquid properties, and the vortex generating surface, when provided, interacts with the liquid flow to induce a second set of liquid properties. The second set of liquid properties may include an increase in the magnitude of vorticity of the liquid flow. Surprisingly and advantageously, the magnitude of vorticity in the wake is thus reduced.

[0040]

[0040] In one example, the first section is movable away from and / or toward the second section, for example, the first section is extendable from and / or can be housed within the second section. That is, the equipment may be nested or sleeved equipment.

[0041]

[0041] In this way, the profile of the equipment can be minimized when no vortex generating surface is provided.

[0042]

[0042] In one example, the first section can be selectively configured to provide a vortex-generating surface at the leading edge of the second section.

[0043]

[0043] In this way, the vortex generating surface can interact with the liquid flow in front of any downstream surface. The vortices induced by the vortex generating surface can then pass downstream, where the vortices present in the liquid flow can interact favorably with the downstream components to improve their efficiency and / or reduce the size of the wake.

[0044]

[0044] In one example, the second section comprises a flow control surface, such as fins, rudders, ducts, and / or rotors, and / or is a flow control surface.

[0045]

[0045] The flow control surface of a ship generates a wake and induces vortices that interact with the flow control surface, which can advantageously result in a reduction in the magnitude of the resulting wake. In one example, the flow control surface interacts with the liquid flow to induce a first set of liquid properties, and the vortex generating surface, when provided, interacts with the liquid flow to induce a second set of liquid properties. The second set of liquid properties may include an increase in the magnitude of the vorticity of the liquid flow. Surprisingly and advantageously, the magnitude of the vorticity of the wake is thus reduced.

[0046]

[0046] In one example, the equipment further comprises a controller configured to perform selective configuration of the vortex generating surface.

[0047]

[0047] By providing a controller, automated equipment and / or equipment that can be configured based on variables monitored by the controller are made easier.

[0048]

[0048] In one example, the controller is configured to perform selective configuration of the vortex generating surface in response to user commands, input from sensor equipment (local to or remote from the equipment), and / or one or more environmental conditions.

[0049]

[0049] The selective configuration of the vortex generating surface may be carried out based on appropriate feedback or control only when necessary or desired.

[0050]

[0050] Alternatively, the selective configuration of the vortex-generating surface may be somewhat passive, for example, shifting to a specific configuration when liquid properties (e.g., appropriate liquid pressure, temperature, salinity, flow rate, etc.) force this change.

[0051]

[0051] In one example, the first section is selectively configurable to change the shape of the equipment, thereby providing a vortex-generating surface that induces vortices in a liquid flow. In one example, the first section is selectively configurable to change the shape of the vortex-generating surface. In one example, the first section is selectively configurable to change the shape of the vortex-generating surface, thereby providing a vortex-generating surface that induces vortices in a liquid flow.

[0052]

[0052] Advantageously, the first shape of equipment without a vortex generating surface may be optimized for specific operating characteristics, whereas the second shape of equipment with a vortex generating surface may be optimized for propulsion efficiency and / or wake reduction. Furthermore, modifying the shape of the vortex generating surface is advantageous to improve propulsion efficiency to some extent or to reduce the size of the wake by a required or desired amount.

[0053]

[0053] In one example, the first section can be selectively configured to be a first configuration in which the vortex generating surface is provided to induce vortices having a first characteristic in the liquid flow, and a second configuration in which the vortex generating surface is provided to induce vortices having a second characteristic in the liquid flow.

[0054]

[0054] In one example, the second characteristic is greater than the first characteristic, for example, the first characteristic is of magnitude 0 and the second characteristic is of magnitude non-zero, or the first characteristic is of magnitude non-zero and the second characteristic is of magnitude greater non-zero.

[0055]

[0055] In one example, the first section can be selectively configured to provide a vortex-generating surface having a series of protrusions. In one example, the protrusions are serrated and / or wavy. In one example, the protrusions may have length and height. The length may extend between the sides of the protrusions. The series of protrusions may be substantially aligned side by side; that is, the protrusions may be aligned laterally. The protrusions may be curved along their length.

[0056]

[0056] In one example, the first section can be selectively configured to provide a vortex-generating surface that induces a plurality of spatially separated vortices, optionally periodic vortices, in the fluid flow. Spatially separated vortices are beneficial in reducing the magnitude of vorticity in the wake and also in reducing drag.

[0057]

[0057] According to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, a ship equipped with the equipment according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is provided.

[0058]

[0058] Vessels include boats, ships and hovercraft, and unmanned watercraft, including those capable of operating underwater. Vessels also include floating platforms, such as oil drilling rigs, which have propulsion or energy generation capabilities by rotors.

[0059]

[0059] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for influencing a liquid flow in a facility comprising a first section that can be selectively configured to provide a vortex-generating surface, the method comprising configuring the first section to provide a vortex-generating surface that induces vortices in the liquid flow.

[0060]

[0060] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a device for influencing a fluid flow is provided, the device comprising a first section that can be selectively configured to provide a vortex generating surface, the vortex generating surface comprising a series of laterally aligned projections for inducing vortices in the fluid flow.

[0061]

[0061] Laterally aligned protrusions are a highly advantageous structure for inducing vortices in the fluid flow. The selective configuration of the first section for providing the vortex-generating surface allows the vortex-generating surface to be provided only when needed or desired.

[0062]

[0062] Laterally aligned can alternatively be defined or described as a projection that extends in only one dimension or direction (e.g., along a line, edge, or curve) and does not extend within a 2D surface or form an array dispersed across a 2D surface. In this case as well, the equipment may be advantageous in certain applications, for example, with respect to inducing vortices in a liquid flow.

[0063]

[0063] In one example, the vortex generating surface can be configured to interact with the fluid flow to induce vortices such that the characteristics of the fluid flow include the magnitude of the vorticity. In one example, the first section interacts with the fluid flow to induce a first set of fluid characteristics, and the vortex generating surface, when provided, interacts with the fluid flow to induce a second set of fluid characteristics. The second set of fluid characteristics may include an increase in the magnitude of the vorticity of the fluid flow. Surprisingly and advantageously, the magnitude of the vorticity in the wake is thus reduced.

[0064]

[0064] In one example, the projections are serrated and / or wavy. In one example, the projections may have length and height. The length may extend between the sides of the projection. Laterally aligned may mean that a series of projections are substantially aligned side by side. The projections may be curved along their length.

[0065]

[0065] The projection may have a base and a tip. The base of the projection may be aligned laterally. A series of projections may form at least partially continuous wavy profiles. That is, a wave shape may be formed, which may be curved, sawtooth, or ridged. The projections may be adjacent to each other so as to have no gaps between them. It has been found that at least partially continuous wavy profiles of laterally aligned projections are a very advantageous configuration for projections to induce vortices in the fluid flow.

[0066]

[0066] In one example, the equipment further comprises a second section, the first section and the second section being movable relative to each other to provide a vortex generating surface.

[0067]

[0067] Thus, the vortex-generating surface does not always need to be provided, or it may be movable to a specific position to increase or decrease its interaction with the fluid flow. This is beneficial for inducing vortices in the liquid flow only when needed or desired.

[0068]

[0068] In one example, the first section is movable away from and / or toward the second section, for example, the first section is extendable from and / or can be stored within the second section.

[0069]

[0069] In this way, the profile of the equipment can be minimized when no vortex generating surface is provided.

[0070]

[0070] In one example, the first section can be selectively configured to provide a vortex-generating surface at the leading edge of the second section.

[0071]

[0071] In this way, improved interaction with the fluid flow is facilitated. Furthermore, in this way, vortices in a favorable direction are induced. Moreover, the vortex-generating surface can interact with the fluid flow before any downstream surface. The vortices induced by the vortex-generating surface can then pass downstream, where the vortices present in the fluid flow can interact favorably with downstream components to improve their efficiency and / or reduce the size of the wake.

[0072]

[0072] In one example, the second section comprises a flow control surface, such as fins, rudders, ducts, and / or rotors, and / or is a flow control surface.

[0073]

[0073] Aircraft and ship flow control surfaces generate wakes. By inducing vortices that interact with the flow control surface, the resulting wake size can be reduced, which is advantageous.

[0074]

[0074] In one example, the equipment further comprises a controller positioned to carry out a selective configuration of the vortex generating surface.

[0075]

[0075] By providing a controller, automated equipment and / or equipment that can be configured based on variables monitored by the controller are made easier.

[0076]

[0076] In one example, the controller is configured to perform selective configuration of the vortex generating surface in response to user commands, input from sensor equipment (local or remote to the equipment), and / or one or more environmental conditions.

[0077]

[0077] The selective configuration of the vortex generating surface may be carried out based on appropriate feedback or control only when necessary or desired.

[0078]

[0078] Alternatively, the selective configuration of the vortex-generating surface may be somewhat passive, for example, shifting to a particular configuration when liquid properties (e.g., appropriate liquid pressure, temperature, salinity, flow rate, etc.) force this change.

[0079]

[0079] In one example, the equipment comprises an actuator assembly that can be operated to provide a vortex-generating surface. The actuator may be mechanical (e.g., a piston) or fluid (using the movement of a fluid or using fluid pressure to shape the surface).

[0080]

[0080] Providing an actuator for providing a vortex generating surface ensures robust and reliable control of the vortex generating surface. Selective configuration of the vortex generating surface may be carried out by controlling the actuator assembly to provide the vortex generating surface only when necessary or desired.

[0081]

[0081] In one example, the first section comprises an elastic membrane and an actuator assembly that can be operated to adjust the profile of the elastic membrane to provide a vortex generating surface.

[0082]

[0082] The elastic membrane has a smooth profile, which helps reduce drag. Furthermore, the profile of the elastic profile can be manipulated to provide a vortex-generating surface of a specific shape that is advantageous in achieving the required or desired level of reduction in wake size and / or improvement in rotor efficiency.

[0083]

[0083] In one example, the first section is formed from a shape memory alloy.

[0084]

[0084] Shape memory alloys can be repeatedly reformed to provide a vortex-generating surface of a desired shape. In this case, an actuator assembly may not be necessary, increasing the reliability of providing the vortex-generating surface and simplifying the structure.

[0085]

[0085] In one example, the first section can be selectively configured to be a first configuration in which the vortex generating surface is provided to induce vortices having a first characteristic in the fluid flow, and a second configuration in which the vortex generating surface is provided to induce vortices having a second characteristic in the fluid flow.

[0086]

[0086] In one example, the second characteristic is greater than the first characteristic, for example, the first characteristic is of magnitude 0 and the second characteristic is of magnitude non-zero, or the first characteristic is of magnitude non-zero and the second characteristic is of magnitude greater than zero.

[0087]

[0087] In one example, the first section can be selectively configured to provide a vortex-generating surface that induces a plurality of spatially separated vortices, and optionally periodic vortices, within a fluid flow. Spatially separated vortices are beneficial in reducing the magnitude of vorticity in the wake and also in reducing drag.

[0088]

[0088] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, an aircraft or ship is provided that is equipped with the equipment according to the seventh aspect of the present invention.

[0089]

[0089] Aircraft include airplanes, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, or other machines capable of flight. Vessels include boats, ships, and hovercraft, as well as unmanned watercraft capable of underwater operation. Vessels also include floating platforms such as oil drilling rigs that have propulsion or energy generation capabilities by rotors.

[0090]

[0090] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for influencing a fluid flow in a facility comprising a first section that can be selectively configured to provide a vortex-generating surface having a series of laterally aligned protrusions, the method comprising configuring the first section to provide a vortex-generating surface that induces vortices in the fluid flow.

[0091]

[0091] Any aspect of the present invention described above may, as desired or appropriately, incorporate any or all features of any or all other aspects of the present invention. This will be apparent to those skilled in the art from their own knowledge and from the obviously closely related nature of all aspects and embodiments discussed herein. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0092]

[0092] For a better understanding of the present invention and to illustrate how embodiments of the present invention are put into practice, references to the accompanying figures are made as an example. [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the duct. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a duct system according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows an enlarged view of the ductwork shown in Figure 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the equipment according to an exemplary embodiment of the first configuration. [Figure 5]Figure 5 shows the equipment in Figure 4 in the second configuration. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows the interaction between the duct and the fluid flow in Figure 1. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the interaction between the ductwork shown in Figure 2 and the fluid flow. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the interaction between the duct and the fluid flow in Figure 1. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the interaction between the ductwork shown in Figure 2 and the fluid flow. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a method according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows a method according to an exemplary embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows a method according to an exemplary embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0093]

[0093] Referring to Figure 1, a duct 1 is shown. The duct 1 is a hollow cylinder, tube, or ring. In this example, the duct 1 is for housing or otherwise surrounding a rotor. In one exemplary embodiment, the rotor is a propeller rotor. In another exemplary embodiment, the rotor is a turbine rotor.

[0094]

[0094] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, a ductwork 100 is shown. The ductwork 100 is for installation on an aircraft or ship. The ductwork comprises a first duct section 1000 which is similar to or identical in structure to duct 1. That is, the first duct section 1000 is a hollow cylinder, tube, or ring. The first duct section 1000 is for housing or otherwise surrounding a rotor.

[0095]

[0095] The first duct section 1000 is positioned to receive a fluid flow through it. The first duct section 1000 includes a fluid inlet end 1002 and a fluid outlet end 1004. The fluid inlet end 1002 is the front or leading end of the first duct section 1000. The fluid outlet end 1004 is the rear or rear end of the first duct section 1000. The first duct section 1000 defines a first direction (indicated by arrow 1006) through the first duct section 1000 from the fluid inlet end 1002 to the fluid outlet end 1004.

[0096]

[0096] The ductwork 100 further comprises a second duct section 2000. The second duct section 2000 comprises a fluid inlet end 2002 and a fluid outlet end 2004. The fluid inlet end 2002 is the front, leading end of the second duct section 2000. The fluid outlet end 2004 is the rear, rear end of the second duct section 2000 and opens into the fluid inlet end 1002 of the first duct section 1000. The second duct section 2000 defines a second direction (indicated by arrow 2006) passing through the second duct section 2000 from the fluid inlet end 2002 to the fluid outlet end 2004. The second duct section 2000 is located upstream of the first duct section 1000 along the first direction 1006. The second duct section 2000 is provided at the leading edge of the first duct section 1000. When the first duct section 1000 houses the rotor, the second duct section 2000 is provided upstream of the rotor along the first direction 1006.

[0097]

[0097] The first duct section 1000 and the second duct section 2000 are aligned radially and circumferentially (for example, their circumferences are substantially the same and aligned) and coaxial. In this way, the first direction 1006 is substantially parallel to the second direction 2006 and substantially aligned.

[0098]

[0098] In some embodiments, the first duct section 1000 and the second duct section 2000 are formed separately. Each duct section is formed from a material well suited to the application in question, and may typically be formed from a polymer, a metal, etc. The first duct section 1000 and the second duct section 2000 are bolted together, glued together, or otherwise fixed together, thereby connecting or attaching them. Thus, the second duct section 2000 is supported by the first duct section 1000. In one embodiment, the second duct section 2000 is provided in a portion of the duct section, and each portion is bolted to the first duct section 1000, thereby forming the second duct section 2000. In another embodiment, the first duct section 1000 includes a thread formed at the front end of the first duct section 1000, and the second duct section 2000 includes a corresponding thread provided at the rear end of the second duct section 2000. The corresponding threads are engageable to attach the first and second duct sections 1000, 2000. In another embodiment, the second duct section 2000 is formed integrally with the first duct section 1000. In this way, the second duct section 2000 is attached to and supported by the first duct section 1000.

[0099]

[0099] To avoid concerns, in some exemplary embodiments, the duct section may be limited to the area of ​​a larger duct, pipe, or ring.

[0100]

[0100] The second duct section 2000 is provided with a vortex generating surface 3000. Vortex generators are well known. Conventional vortex generators are typically aerodynamic devices with fixed wings. Conventional vortex generators are mounted on the lift surface of an aircraft or on a turbine blade.

[0101]

[0101] The vortex generating surface 3000 is positioned to induce vortices in the fluid flow through the first duct section 1000. The vortex generating surface 3000 comprises a plurality of projections 3002. The term “projection” is intended to include protrusions, sawtooth and / or wavy shapes, etc. Each projection has a transverse circumferential length 3008 (which may be described as “wavelength” or part of a wavelength) and an axial height 3010 (which may be described as “amplitude”). The projections 3002 project in a direction substantially opposite to the first direction 1006.

[0102]

[0102] In the absence of the vortex generating surface 3000, the duct sections 1000, 2000 interact with the fluid flow to induce a first set of fluid properties. The vortex generating surface 3000 provided within the ductwork 100 interacts with the fluid flow to induce a second set of fluid properties, the second set of fluid properties includes an increase in the magnitude of the vorticity of the fluid flow. The vortex generating surface 3000 is configured to induce a plurality of periodic, spaced-out vortices, corresponding to the shape of the vortex generating surface 3000 and the spacing of the protrusions 3002.

[0103]

[0103] The generation of vortices by the vortex generating surface 3000 helps reduce the magnitude of the wake vorticity generated by both the interaction between the duct equipment 100 and the fluid flow and the interaction of the rotor (not shown) housed within the duct equipment 100. In addition, flow separation on the outer surfaces of the first and second duct sections 1000, 2000 is reduced compared to a ducted propulsion unit without the vortex generating surface 3000. This is advantageous as it results in increased thrust generation for equivalent energy input. Overall, this provides a more efficient propulsion unit, control of turbulent wake, and reduction of downstream vortex motion. Furthermore, improved bollard pull performance is achieved, cavitation generation is suppressed, and underwater radiated noise is reduced.

[0104]

[0104] In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 2 and 3, the vortex generating surface 3000 comprises a series of laterally aligned projections 3002. Laterally aligned projections 3002 mean that they are aligned in a line; that is, the projections are adjacent to one another. Here, the projections are aligned to form a continuous surface 3004 having a leading edge 3006. The alignment of the projections 3002 results in the foremost point of each projection being aligned in a plane. In this case, the plane is perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis of the first and second duct sections 1000, 2000.

[0105]

[0105] The leading edge 3006 has a continuous wavy profile generated by the rising and falling of a plurality of projections 3002. The terms “wavelength” and “amplitude” used to describe the dimensions of the projections 3002 are particularly appropriate here. The wavelength is indicated by 3008 and the amplitude by 3010. The projections 3002 are curved along their length so that the projections 3002 together form a ring of laterally aligned projections 3002, as shown in the figure. It is worth noting that the projections extend around the circumference of the duct rather than along the duct (e.g., along the inner or outer surface of the duct). This can improve performance and / or simplify the structure.

[0106]

[0106] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the equipment 110 is shown. The equipment 110 is for installation on an aircraft or ship. The equipment 110 is for influencing fluid flow. In one exemplary embodiment, the overall structure of the equipment 110 is similar to that of the duct equipment 100 described above. That is, the equipment 110 may include a duct section. However, equipment 110 also has applications in sections other than ducts and in flow control surfaces.

[0107]

[0107] In the apparatus 110, the first section 1100 can be selectively configured to provide a vortex generating surface 3100. The vortex generator 3100 is provided to induce vortices in a fluid flow. In one exemplary embodiment, the fluid flow is a liquid flow (as opposed to, for example, an air flow).

[0108]

[0108] The provided vortex-generating surface 3100 comprises a plurality of protrusions 3102. The term “protrusion” is intended to include serrated and / or wavy shapes. As described above, each protrusion has a length (sometimes described as “wavelength”) and a height (sometimes described as “amplitude”). The protrusions 3002 project in a direction substantially opposite to the first direction 1106.

[0109]

[0109] In this way, the equipment 110 can be configured in a configuration in which there is no vortex generating surface and therefore it does not interact with the fluid flow and induce vortices in the fluid flow. The equipment 110 can be selectively configured in a configuration in which a vortex generating surface 3100 is provided and therefore it interacts with the fluid flow and induces vortices in it. The equipment 110 can be selectively configured in a configuration in which the vortex generating surface 3100 is provided to a certain extent or to a certain degree (e.g., partially) and therefore it interacts with the fluid flow and induces vortices in it to a certain extent or to a certain degree. Advantageously, this makes it possible to configure the equipment 110 to provide a vortex generating surface 3100 when it is considered desirable or necessary to use the vortex generating surface 3100 to induce vortices in the fluid flow. Advantageously, this also makes it possible for the vortex generating surface 3100 to be removed or otherwise not provided to interact in the fluid flow, which may be beneficial in appropriate cases to reduce drag or increase kraft wake. These advantages were not intended, nor were they feasible, particularly in liquid (e.g., water) environments. This is surprising, considering the potential benefits from such applications.

[0110]

[0110] As described above, the vortex generating surface 3100 provided within the apparatus 110 interacts with the fluid flow to induce a second set of fluid properties, the second set of fluid properties includes an increase in the magnitude of the vorticity of the fluid flow. The vortex generating surface 3100 is configured to induce a plurality of periodic, spaced-out vortices corresponding to the shape of the vortex generating surface 3000 and the spacing of the protrusions 3002.

[0111]

[0111] The generation of vortices by the vortex generating surface 3100, when provided, helps to reduce the magnitude of the vorticity in the wake. In addition, the separation of the flow on the outer surfaces of the first and second sections 1100, 2100 is reduced compared to a propulsion unit without the vortex generating surface 3100 in question. This is advantageous as it results in increased thrust generation for equivalent energy input. Overall, this provides a more efficient propulsion unit, control of turbulent wake, and reduction of downstream vortex motion. Furthermore, improved bollard pull performance is achieved, cavitation generation is suppressed, and air / water radiated noise is reduced.

[0112]

[0112] The apparatus 110 further comprises a second section 2100. The first section 1100 and the second section 2100 are movable relative to each other to provide a vortex generating surface 3100.

[0113]

[0113] The apparatus 110 further comprises a controller 112. The controller 112 is arranged to implement selective configuration of the vortex generating surface 3100. That is, in this exemplary embodiment, the controller 112 controls the actuator to extend or expand, or retract or contract, when it is necessary or desirable to provide the vortex generating surface 3100. For example, the controller can implement selective configuration of the vortex generating surface 3100 as follows: a. User commands; b. Additional sensor equipment 114, for example, input from sensor equipment capable of measuring and detecting turbulence, kraft velocity and / or fluid flow velocity or similar; and / or c. Environmental conditions, such as the level of turbulence, proximity to other craft, time of day, altitude, or similar factors.

[0114]

[0114] The first section 1100 comprises an elastic membrane 1102 and an actuator assembly 1104. The actuator assembly 1104 is operable to adjust the profile of the elastic membrane to provide a vortex generating surface 3100.

[0115]

[0115] The elastic membrane 1102 is provided in a section that crosses the leading edge of the second section 2100. The actuator assembly 1104 comprises a plurality of linear actuators, one actuator for each portion of the elastic membrane 1102. In the retracted position, the actuators extend to return into the second section 2100.

[0116]

[0116] By acting on the actuator, the actuator extends away from the second section 2100 and contacts the elastic membrane section, biasing the elastic membrane section away from the second section 2100, thereby providing a vortex generating surface 3100 having a series of protrusions on the leading edge of the second section 2100.

[0117]

[0117] The embodiments described above comprise an actuator assembly 1104 and an elastic membrane 1102, but other structures that can be selectively configured to provide a vortex generating surface are preferred. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the first section comprises a shape memory alloy, and the application of heat, e.g., a heated fluid, deforms the shape memory alloy to provide a series of protrusions. In another exemplary embodiment, the first section may comprise a rigid protruding member, and an elastic biasing means, or in fact an actuator assembly similar to those described above, can extend the protruding member from the second section and / or retract it into the second section.

[0118]

[0118] The advantages of the vortex-generating surface are quantified with reference to the following non-limiting examples provided below. The examples provided relate to a duct section, but those skilled in the art will understand that similar advantages can be obtained by using the vortex-generating surface in other sections as well, and therefore illustrate the advantages of both pieces of equipment 100, 110.

[0119]

[0119] Figures 6 and 8 show a first duct and propeller interacting with a fluid flow. The duct and propeller are shaped and sized such that they have a first set of geometric parameters. Those skilled in the art will understand that the geometric parameters suitable for a duct and propeller installation depend on the specific application and use of the installation. The concentric ring surrounding the outside of the duct in Figure 6 shows the drag induced by the leading edge of the duct. In Figure 8, a ring-shaped wake pattern in the direction of flow can be seen, indicated by a continuous ring surrounding the duct.

[0120]

[0120] Figures 7 and 9 show a second duct and propeller interacting with the fluid flow. The second duct and propeller have the same geometric parameters as the first duct and propeller in Figures 6 and 8. In Figures 7 and 9, in addition to the duct and propeller, a vortex generating surface is provided at the leading edge of the duct.

[0121]

[0121] As can be seen in Figure 7, the drag region is partitioned at periodic intervals around the circumference of the duct. This is due to the provision of a vortex-generating surface. As a result, this generates less overall drag compared to the duct and propeller of Example 1. In this example, the total drag is reduced by 50%.

[0122]

[0122] As seen in Figure 9, vortices in the opposite direction of flow are induced by the vortex-generating surface, but these were not present in Example 1 above. As can be seen from the figure, the vortices are spatially separated, i.e., spaced apart, around the circumference of the duct. That is, the vortex-generating surface is configured to induce multiple spaced-apart vortices. The induced vortices are periodic.

[0123]

[0123] The induced vortices help reduce the size of the wake. Comparing Figure 6 and Figure 7, the duct is shown to interact with the fluid flow to produce a first set of fluid properties (e.g., a first wake pattern), while the vortex-generating surface interacts with the fluid flow to induce a second set of fluid properties (e.g., a second wake pattern). As shown in Figure 9, the second set of fluid properties may surprisingly include an increase in the magnitude of the fluid flow's vorticity, which reduces the magnitude of the wake's vorticity.

[0124]

[0124] Furthermore, the flow separation on the outer surface of the duct in Example 2 is lower than that in Example 1 as a result of the provision of a vortex-generating surface. This is advantageous as it results in increased thrust generation for the same energy input. Overall, this provides a more efficient propulsion unit, control of turbulent wake, and reduction of downstream vortex motion. Improved bollard pull performance is also achieved, cavitation generation is suppressed, and underwater noise is reduced.

[0125]

[0125] Referring to Figure 10, a method for guiding the fluid flow is shown. Step S1000 includes generating vortices in the fluid flow using a second duct section having a vortex generating surface. Step S1002 includes receiving the fluid flow into the first duct section.

[0126]

[0126] Referring to Figure 11, a method for influencing a liquid flow in a facility comprising a first section selectively configured to provide a vortex-generating surface is shown. Step S2000 includes configuring the first section to provide a vortex-generating surface that induces vortices in the liquid flow.

[0127]

[0127] Referring to Figure 12, a method for influencing fluid flow is shown in a facility having a first section that can be selectively configured to provide a vortex-generating surface having a series of laterally aligned protrusions. Step S3000 includes configuring the first section to provide a vortex-generating surface that induces vortices in the fluid flow.

[0128]

[0128] In some examples, the apparatus described herein can be fabricated or manufactured as a completely new, independent entity. However, at least some implementations can be readily modified to achieve the above advantages, for example, by modifying the vortex-generating surface described herein into an existing flow surface or object, or by moving an existing vortex-generating surface to a different location.

[0129]

[0129] As described above, the aspects and embodiments are closely related and interrelated, and it will be understood that different features of any one aspect or embodiment may be used in addition to, or instead of, features of another aspect or embodiment.

[0130]

[0130] While several preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be recognized by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0131]

[0131] The above description with reference to the attached drawings is provided to aid in a comprehensive understanding of the various embodiments of the present disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to aid in that understanding, but these should be considered merely illustrative. Accordingly, those skilled in the art will recognize that various modifications and improvements can be made to the various embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, for clarity and brevity, descriptions of known functions and configurations have been omitted.

[0132]

[0132] The terms and words used in the above description and claims are not limited to their bibliographic meanings, but are used by the inventors only to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the present disclosure. Accordingly, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the following descriptions of various embodiments of the present disclosure are provided for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0133]

[0133] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" should be understood to include the plural referent. Terms such as "front," "rear," "side," "top," "bottom," "up," "down," "inside," "outside," and similar terms are used to refer to the device and its components in the orientation in which it is illustrated, and that orientation is the orientation in which it is intended to be used, but should not be interpreted as limiting it in any other way. Similar reference numbers are used to indicate similar features throughout the drawings, and these are not to scale.

[0134]

[0134] At least some of the exemplary embodiments described herein may be constructed in part or entirely using dedicated special-purpose hardware. Terms such as “component,” “module,” or “unit” as used herein may include, but are not limited to, hardware devices such as circuits, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) in the form of individual or integrated components that perform a particular task or provide related functionality. In some embodiments, the elements described may be configured to reside on a tangible, persistent, addressable storage medium or to run on one or more processors. These functional elements may, in some embodiments, include, for example, components such as software components, object-oriented software components, class components, and task components, processes, functions, attributes, procedures, subroutines, segments of program code, drivers, firmware, microcode, circuits, data, databases, data structures, tables, arrays, and variables. While exemplary embodiments have been described with reference to the components, modules, and units discussed herein, such functional elements may be combined into fewer elements or separated into additional elements. Various combinations of optional features are described herein, and it will be understood that the described features can be combined in any suitable combination. In particular, features of any one exemplary embodiment may be combined with features of any other embodiment as needed, unless such combinations are mutually exclusive. Throughout this specification, the terms “comprising” or “comprises” mean including the specified components but not excluding the existence of others.

[0135]

[0135] Attention is drawn to all documents and papers that have been filed concurrently with or prior to this Specification and are made available to the public together with this Specification, and all the contents of such documents and papers are incorporated herein by reference.

[0136]

[0136] All of the features disclosed herein (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings) and / or all of the steps of any method or process disclosed herein may be combined in any combination, except any combination in which at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0137]

[0137] Each feature disclosed herein (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings) may be replaced by an alternative feature serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each disclosed feature is merely one example of a common set of equivalent or similar features.

[0138]

[0138] The present invention is not limited to the details of the embodiments described above. The present invention extends to any novel one or any novel combination of features disclosed herein (including any appended claims, abstract, and drawings), or to any novel one or any novel combination of any step of any method or process disclosed herein. The invention described in the original claims of this application is listed below. [1] Ductwork that affects liquid flow, A first duct section is arranged to receive a liquid flow, and the first duct section defines a first direction through the first duct section from the liquid inlet end to the liquid outlet end. The system comprises a second duct section that defines a second direction passing through the second duct section from the liquid inlet end to the liquid outlet end, The second duct section is provided with a vortex generating surface, the vortex generating surface is arranged to induce vortices in the liquid flow passing through the first duct section. The ductwork further comprises a rotor housed in one of the duct sections. [2] The ductwork according to [1], wherein the rotor is housed in the first duct section. [3] The ductwork according to [1] or [2], wherein the vortex generating surface comprises a series of protrusions. [4] The ductwork according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the vortex generating surface is a ring. [5] The ductwork according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the second duct section is attached to the first duct section, supported by the first duct section, and / or formed integrally with the first duct section. [6] The ductwork according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the second duct section is aligned with and / or coaxial with the first duct section. [7] The ductwork according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the rotor is a propeller and / or turbine rotor. [8] The ductwork according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein the second duct section is provided upstream of the rotor in the first direction. [9] The ductwork according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the second duct section is located upstream of the first duct section in the first direction.

[10] The ductwork described in any one of [1] to [9], wherein the second duct section is provided at the leading edge of the first duct section.

[11] The ductwork according to any one of [1] to

[10] , wherein the projections of the vortex generating surface protrude in a direction substantially opposite to the first direction.

[12] The ductwork according to any one of [1] to

[11] , wherein the first duct section interacts with the liquid flow to induce a first set of liquid properties, and the vortex generating surface interacts with the liquid flow to induce a second set of liquid properties, the second set of liquid properties comprising an increase in the magnitude of the vorticity of the liquid flow.

[13] The ductwork according to any one of [1] to

[12] , wherein the vortex generating surface is configured to induce a plurality of spatially separated vortices, such as periodic vortices, in the liquid flow.

[14] A vessel equipped with ductwork as described in any one of paragraphs [1] through

[13] .

[15] A method of affecting liquid flow, A second duct section equipped with a vortex-generating surface is used to generate vortices in the liquid flow, This includes receiving the liquid flow in a first duct section, A method in which the rotor is housed in one of the duct sections.

Claims

1. A duct system (100) that affects liquid flow, A first duct section (1000) is arranged to receive a liquid flow, and the first duct section defines a first direction (1006) through the first duct section from a liquid inlet end (1002) to a liquid outlet end (1004). The system comprises a second duct section (2000) that defines a second direction (2006) passing through the second duct section from a liquid inlet end (2002) to a liquid outlet end (2004), The second duct section is provided with a surface (3000) that generates vortices. The ductwork further comprises a rotor housed in one of the duct sections, The first duct section and the second duct section have substantially the same circumference, The surface that generates the vortex has a circumferential length (3008) and an axial height (3010), and comprises a plurality of protrusions (3002) projecting in a direction substantially opposite to the first direction. The aforementioned multiple protrusions extend around the circumference of the duct, Aligned to form a continuous surface (3004) having a leading edge (3006), The leading edge has a continuous wavy profile generated by the rising and falling of the plurality of protrusions. A duct system in which the first duct section and the second duct section are formed separately, and the second duct section is attached to the first duct section.

2. The ductwork according to claim 1, wherein the rotor is housed in the first duct section.

3. The ductwork according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second duct section is aligned with and / or coaxial with the first duct section.

4. The ductwork according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the rotor is a propeller or a turbine rotor.

5. The ductwork according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the second duct section is provided upstream of the rotor along the first direction.

6. The ductwork according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second duct section is provided upstream of the first duct section along the first direction.

7. The ductwork according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the second duct section is provided at the leading edge of the first duct section.

8. The ductwork according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first duct section interacts with the liquid flow to induce a first wake pattern, and the vortex-generating surface interacts with the liquid flow to induce a second wake pattern, the second wake pattern comprising an increase in the magnitude of the vorticity of the liquid flow.

9. A vessel equipped with a duct system as described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A method that affects liquid flow, A second duct section equipped with a surface that generates vortices is used to generate vortices in the liquid flow, This includes receiving the liquid flow in a first duct section, The rotor is housed in one of the duct sections, The first duct section and the second duct section have substantially the same circumference, The surface that generates the vortex has a length in the circumferential direction and a height in the axial direction, and comprises a plurality of protrusions that project in a direction substantially opposite to the first direction. The aforementioned multiple protrusions extend around the circumference of the duct, Aligned to form a continuous surface having a leading edge, The leading edge has a continuous wavy profile generated by the rising and falling of the plurality of protrusions. A method wherein the first duct section and the second duct section are formed separately, and the second duct section is attached to the first duct section.

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