Aircraft Drive Train Torsional Vibration Detection via Motor Short Circuits

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting torsional vibration behavior in aircraft drive trains are inefficient and require specialized test devices, failing to account for the unique operational conditions and mechanical stresses that can lead to reduced lifetime and potential damage.

Innovation Solution

Induce mechanical stimulation in the drive train using 2-phase or symmetrical 3-phase short circuits in a permanent magnet synchronous motor, detecting the torsional vibration response with sensors to determine natural and resonant frequencies without excessive stress, and store data for engine health monitoring.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If specialized test devices are used to detect torsional vibration behavior, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetorsional vibration behavior detection accuracyVSAvoidtest device complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The drive train itself generates the excitation signals through controlled short circuits in the electric drive, eliminating the need for external excitation devices. The system uses its own operational components (electric drive, shafts, gears) to both generate vibrations and measure them, making the measurement system self-sufficient and removing complex external test equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The existing electric drive system performs multiple functions: it drives the aircraft propulsion system normally, and simultaneously serves as both the excitation source and measurement system for torsional vibration detection. The control unit manages both propulsion control and vibration measurement functions, eliminating dedicated test equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If mechanical stimulation is applied to detect natural frequencies, then measurement precision is improved, but the risk of mechanical stress and damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenatural frequency detection accuracyVSAvoidmechanical stress and damage risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system varies electrical parameters (short circuit configuration, pulse duration, amplitude) to control the mechanical stimulation intensity. By adjusting electrical input parameters, the system generates sufficient vibrations for accurate frequency detection while maintaining stimulation levels below damage thresholds through controlled parameter selection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The control unit continuously monitors the torsional vibration response and adjusts the short circuit excitation parameters in real-time. Based on feedback from vibration sensors, the system modulates the electrical stimulation to achieve optimal measurement conditions without exceeding safe mechanical stress limits, preventing damage while maintaining measurement precision.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Measurement precision

If drive train components are subjected to mechanical stresses over specific periods, then measurement precision is improved, but the lifetime of components is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevibration behavior measurement accuracyVSAvoiddrive train component lifetime

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies periodic short circuit excitation signals at controlled intervals rather than continuous stimulation. Measurements are performed during scheduled maintenance periods or ground operations when the aircraft is not in flight, distributing the mechanical stress over time rather than concentrating it, thereby preserving component lifetime while achieving accurate vibration characterization when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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 efficient, in-situ detection of torsional vibration behavior during operation, reducing the risk of mechanical stress and damage, and providing data for predictive maintenance.

Implementation Method 1

at least one short circuit (e.g., at least one 2-phase and/or at least one symmetrical 3-phase short circuit) is generated in or at the permanent magnet synchronous motor that induces a mechanical stimulation (e.g., a torsional stimulation) of the drive train

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS20260002838A1Method and device for determining the torsional vibration behavior in a drive train in an aircraft

Publication Date: 2026.01.01 ROLLS ROYCE DEUT LTD & CO KG

AI summary

A method for detecting torsional vibration behavior of a drive train of an aircraft that is coupled to a permanent magnet synchronous motor as a drive includes at least one triggering of a short circuit in the permanent magnet synchronous motor in an operating state to apply at least one induced mechanical stimulation of the drive train. A torsional vibration response of the drive train to the induced mechanical stimulation is detected by a sensor device. A corresponding device is also provided.