Accessory Power Module Layout for Dual-Spool Turbine Power Takeoff
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing accessory drive arrangement in gas turbine engines is limited by the power that can be taken off the high-pressure spool, which restricts the power available for accessories, and increasing engine size to address this issue leads to undesirable weight and size increases.
Innovation Solution
An accessory power module comprising a first electrical machine coupled to the low-pressure spool, an accessory gearbox coupled to the high-pressure spool, and a casing that integrates airflow and accessory conduits, allowing for efficient packaging and power distribution within the gas turbine engine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the size of the engine is increased to provide more power for accessories, then the power capacity is improved, but the weight and airframe size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides power generation into two separate electrical machines: a first electrical machine coupled to the low-pressure spool and a second electrical machine coupled to the accessory gearbox (which receives power from the high-pressure spool). This segmentation allows independent optimization of each generator's size and power output, maximizing total power availability without requiring a larger engine overall.
Solution Approach 2:
The accessory gearbox is mounted to the casing in a direction transverse to the airflow direction through the casing, utilizing three-dimensional space efficiently. The casing itself is configured for airflow therethrough, integrating the accessory power module into the engine's existing airflow path without increasing external dimensions, thereby providing additional power capacity without increasing airframe size.
2Power
If the size of the engine is increased to provide more power for accessories, then the power capacity is improved, but the airframe size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The accessory gearbox is mounted to the casing in a direction transverse to the airflow direction through the casing, utilizing three-dimensional space efficiently. The casing itself is configured for airflow therethrough, integrating the accessory power module into the engine's existing airflow path without increasing external dimensions, thereby providing additional power capacity without increasing airframe size.
Solution Approach 2:
The casing serves multiple functions: it houses the first electrical machine, allows airflow therethrough (forming part of the inlet air flow path), and provides a mounting surface for the accessory gearbox. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate housings or structural modifications, avoiding additional airframe size increases.
3Power
If accessories are driven from the high-pressure spool, then power is available for accessories, but engine performance is impacted
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides power generation into two separate electrical machines: a first electrical machine coupled to the low-pressure spool and a second electrical machine coupled to the accessory gearbox (which receives power from the high-pressure spool). This segmentation allows independent optimization of each generator's size and power output, maximizing total power availability without requiring a larger engine overall.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides an accessory power module for a gas turbine engine having a high-pressure spool and a low-pressure spool, the accessory power module comprising: a first electrical machine configured to couple to the low-pressure spool of the gas turbine engine; a casing housing the first electrical machine, the casing comprising at least one support element configured to support the first electrical machine within the casing, wherein the casing is configured for airflow therethrough; an accessory gearbox comprising an input coupling configured to couple to the high-pressure spool of the gas turbine engine, the accessory gearbox mounted to the casing; and a second electrical machine configured to couple to an output coupling of the accessory gearbox; wherein the casing is configured to be mounted along an inlet air flow path into the gas turbine engine.