Aerodynamic Arm for Aircraft Turbine Engine Casing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The large cross-section electrical conductors in hybrid turbine engines obstruct airflow, degrading the aerodynamic performance and limiting the supply of high electrical power due to restricted space and limited number of structural arms in the secondary duct of the turbine engine.
Innovation Solution
A casing aerodynamic arm with a tubular, aerodynamically profiled design featuring an electrically conductive core surrounded by an insulating material, allowing for the passage of large diameter electrical conductors while maintaining aerodynamic performance and mechanical strength, with multiple arms integrated into the turbine engine casing to enhance electrical energy transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If large cross-section electrical conductors are installed in the secondary duct, then high electrical power can be transmitted, but the airflow is obstructed and aerodynamic performance is degraded
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical conductor system is segmented into multiple smaller conductors that can be distributed across multiple aerodynamic arms, rather than using a single large conductor. This allows the electrical power transmission capability to be maintained while reducing the obstruction to airflow in any single location.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a two-dimensional problem (conductor cross-section blocking duct area) to a three-dimensional solution by utilizing multiple aerodynamic arms arranged in space. This distributes the electrical conductors across different spatial locations, reducing localized airflow obstruction while maintaining overall power transmission capability.
2Power
If the number of structural arms is increased to accommodate more electrical conductors, then electrical power transmission is improved, but the mechanical complexity and mass of the casing increase
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic arms are designed to serve multiple functions: they maintain the aerodynamic performance of the casing, provide structural support, and simultaneously serve as conduits for electrical conductors. This multi-functionality allows existing structural elements to be utilized for electrical power transmission without increasing the number of arms or overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The design changes the parameters of existing aerodynamic arms by modifying their internal structure to accommodate electrical conductors, rather than adding new arms. This involves changing the arm's cross-sectional geometry and material composition to integrate both aerodynamic and electrical functions within the same structural elements.
3Strength
If fixed structural arms with large thickness are used, then mechanical strength is maintained, but the space for electrical conductors is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The aerodynamic arms utilize composite material structures that combine materials with different properties. This allows the arms to maintain mechanical strength while creating internal cavities or modified cross-sections that can accommodate large electrical conductors. The composite structure optimizes both structural and electrical functions within the same component.
Solution Approach 2:
The design employs thin-walled tubular structures for the aerodynamic arms that maintain structural integrity through optimized geometry and material selection, rather than relying on thick walls. This creates sufficient internal space for electrical conductors while preserving the necessary mechanical strength through intelligent structural design.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables the efficient passage of high electrical power through multiple aerodynamic arms of reduced dimensions, preserving mechanical strength and aerodynamic performance, thus supporting the increased electrical demands of hybrid turbine engines without increasing mass.
Implementation Method 1
an insulating material configured to occupy a space provided between the core and the shell
Implementation Method 2
it has an aerodynamic profile so as to limit the disturbance of the air flow
Data Source
AI summary
An aerodynamic arm for an aircraft turbine engine casing includes a tubular outer shell having a generally elongate shape extending substantially along an axis. The shell has axial ends configured to be connected to a turbine engine casing. An electrically conductive core extends inside the shell and has ends configured to electrically connect to the ends of the shell. An insulating material occupies a space between the core and the shell.