Aircraft Air Circuit With Electric Boost Compression for Pressure Regulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft air systems lack efficiency and flexibility in providing pressurized air to environmental control systems, particularly in varying operational conditions.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of an electric boost compressor and an air circuit fluidly coupled to the turbine engine's flowpath, with an electric machine providing power to the compressor, allowing independent operation from mechanical systems and enabling continuous air pressure regulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional mechanical air system is used in aircraft, then the system structure is simple, but the operational flexibility and efficiency in varying conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The air system is segmented into multiple independent components: a first air compressor integrated with the turbine engine, a second air compressor (electric boost compressor) driven by an electric motor, and an air mixing assembly. This segmentation allows each component to operate independently and contribute to the overall air supply based on specific operational requirements, thereby improving adaptability without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The turbine engine serves multiple functions: it drives the first air compressor for air generation and simultaneously functions as a power source for the aircraft propulsion system. The electric motor serves dual purposes by driving the second air compressor and being capable of generating electrical power. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated single-purpose components, enhancing operational flexibility while managing system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If an electric boost compressor is added to provide independent air pressure regulation, then operational flexibility improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical air pressure regulation mechanisms with an electrically driven boost compressor system. The electric motor provides precise and responsive control over air pressure and flow rate through electrical signal control, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages, valves, and pressure regulators. This substitution simplifies the control architecture while improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The air mixing assembly acts as an intermediary component that blends compressed air from the first air compressor with ambient air or bypass air. This intermediary mechanism allows for fine-tuned adjustment of air pressure and composition without requiring direct mechanical intervention in the compression system, thereby simplifying the overall control structure while maintaining operational flexibility.
3Reliability
If continuous air supply is maintained independent of mechanical variations, then reliability improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operation of the electric motor-driven second air compressor based on real-time air pressure and flow requirements. The control system monitors the output of the first air compressor and modulates the electric compressor's operation accordingly, activating it only when additional air pressure or flow is needed. This dynamic operation ensures continuous reliable air supply while minimizing energy consumption by avoiding unnecessary compressor operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the air compression system by introducing an electrically controlled second compressor that can independently adjust its compression ratio, speed, and activation state. This parameter flexibility allows the system to maintain reliable air supply under varying conditions while optimizing energy consumption by adjusting compression levels to match actual demand rather than operating at fixed high-compression settings.
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
Enables controlled and continuous supply of pressurized air to environmental control systems, independent of mechanical system variations, enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The electric machine is configurable as an electric motor wherein the electric machine rotor inputs mechanical power into the rotating structure
Implementation Method 2
The electric machine is configurable as an electric generator wherein the rotating structure drives rotation of the electric machine rotor
Implementation Method 3
The air circuit projects out from the circuit inlet and extends through the electric boost compressor
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft system includes a turbine engine and an air system. The turbine engine includes a compressor section, a combustor section and a turbine section. A flowpath extends through the compressor section, the combustor section and the turbine section. A first rotating structure includes a first compressor rotor disposed in the compressor section. A second rotating structure includes a second compressor rotor disposed in the compressor section along the flowpath between the first compressor rotor and the combustor section. The air system includes an air circuit and an electric boost compressor. A circuit inlet into the air circuit is fluidly coupled to the flowpath and disposed along the second compressor rotor. The air circuit projects out from the circuit inlet and extends through the electric boost compressor.