Aircraft Flow Control Base Using Thermal Gradient Bending
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow control devices in aircraft face challenges due to working fluid temperatures affecting the shape of memory shape alloys or bimetallic parts, leading to unpredictable performance.
Innovation Solution
A flow control device is developed using a composition gradient with different coefficients of thermal expansion, combined with a thermoelectric junction, to create a base that can deform predictably in response to thermal input, thus controlling fluid flow without complex machinery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If memory shape alloy or bimetallic parts are used for flow control, then complex machinery can be avoided, but working fluid temperatures undesirably control the shape of the alloy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the thermal response parameter by using a composition gradient material where the coefficient of thermal expansion varies through the material thickness. This allows the material to expand differentially on each side when heated, enabling controlled bending toward a predetermined shape rather than unpredictable random deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite material structure with a composition gradient, combining materials with different thermal expansion coefficients in a controlled gradient fashion. This composite approach enables predictable thermal actuation while maintaining the simplicity of having no moving parts.
2Reliability
If composition gradient with different CTE is used, then predictable deformation can be achieved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a composition gradient where the material composition varies locally through the thickness of the base. This gradient provides different coefficients of thermal expansion at different locations, enabling predictable differential expansion and controlled bending toward a predetermined shape.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex manufacturing processes with additive manufacturing technology, which can directly create composition gradients and complex geometries in a single manufacturing step, thereby reducing overall manufacturing complexity despite the sophisticated material structure.
3Manufacturing precision
If thermoelectric junction is added for thermal input, then precise flow control is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a thermoelectric junction as an intermediary component that converts electrical energy to thermal energy at a specific location on the base. This localized thermal input triggers the composition gradient material to bend predictably, providing precise flow control through a simple additive structure rather than complex mechanical mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical flow control mechanisms with a thermally actuated composition gradient system. The thermoelectric junction provides thermal actuation, and the composition gradient material converts this thermal input directly into mechanical deformation, eliminating the need for traditional mechanical flow control components.
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 device achieves controlled deformation of the base, allowing for precise manipulation of fluid flow characteristics, such as throttling, without the need for movable parts, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of aircraft systems.
Implementation Method 1
a composition gradient defining a first coefficient of thermal expansion and a second coefficient of thermal expansion that differs from the first coefficient of thermal expansion
Implementation Method 2
a thermoelectric junction operationally coupled to the composition gradient
Data Source
AI summary
A flow control device having: a composition gradient defining a first coefficient of thermal expansion and a second coefficient of thermal expansion that differs from the first coefficient of thermal expansion; and a thermoelectric junction operationally coupled to the composition gradient, wherein the composition gradient is formed of either of a plurality of dissimilar metals or of plastic with fillings or fibers.