Aircraft Fuel Tank Recirculation Filtration to Prevent Filter Clogging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contaminants in aircraft fuel tanks, including microbial growth and debris, lead to filter clogging and safety risks, necessitating complex and time-consuming tank inspections.
Innovation Solution
A device for cleaning fuel in aircraft tanks comprising an extractor, filter, and recirculator, with a pump to move fuel through a circulation process, allowing efficient removal of contaminants and reducing the load on fuel filters during operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fuel filters are used to prevent contaminants from reaching the propulsion system, then fuel filter reliability is improved, but the filter can clog up during operation with heavily contaminated fuel, posing a safety risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by cleaning the fuel in the tank before it enters the fuel filter system. An extraction device removes contaminants from the fuel stored in the tank, so that when the fuel is later filtered by the fuel filter, the filter is not overloaded with contaminants. This preventive cleaning action before filtration prevents filter clogging and maintains filter reliability during operation.
2Reliability
If tank inspections are performed to clean substantially contaminated tanks, then fuel contamination is reduced, but the inspections are complex and time-consuming, occupying hangar space continuously for several days
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the extraction principle by using an extraction device to remove contaminants from the fuel in the tank. The device extracts fuel from the tank, passes it through a filter, and returns the cleaned fuel to the tank. This extraction and filtration process can be performed quickly without requiring complex manual inspections, thereby reducing both the time required and the need for specialized personnel while achieving effective fuel cleaning.
3Reliability
If tank inspections are performed to clean contaminated tanks, then fuel contamination is reduced, but specially qualified and trained personnel are required, increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by providing a automated extraction and filtration device that can be operated by standard personnel without requiring special qualifications. The device automatically extracts fuel, filters contaminants, and returns cleaned fuel to the tank, eliminating the need for complex manual inspection procedures and specialized training while maintaining effective fuel cleaning capability.
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 enables efficient cleaning of aircraft fuel with minimal effort, enhancing fuel filter reliability and reducing the risk of contamination and corrosion, while minimizing the need for extensive tank inspections.
Implementation Method 1
A pump is provided for moving the fuel, at least through the hose of the recirculator
Implementation Method 2
a filter configured to filter the extracted fuel
Implementation Method 3
an extractor configured to extract fuel from the tank of the aircraft
Data Source
AI summary
A device for cleaning fuel located in a tank of an aircraft, having a prescribed flow direction for the fuel and units fluidically connected to one another for transfer of fuel. The device includes in the flow direction an extractor configured to extract fuel from the tank of the aircraft, a filter configured to filter the extracted fuel, and a recirculator. The recirculator is configured to return the filtered fuel to the tank of the aircraft. The recirculator includes a hose configured to provide selective fluid connection of the device to the tank of the aircraft. A pump is provided for moving the fuel, at least through the hose of the recirculator.