Aircraft Generator Control System with Dual Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft electrical systems face complexity and weight issues due to extensive cabling and redundant control modules, which can lead to inefficiencies and potential faults in power and data distribution.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a dual-control module system, where a first control module remotely verifies generator outputs and detects faults, while a second control module, located proximate to the generator, regulates voltage and current, providing independent fault protection and reducing the need for separate power quality modules and processors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate generator control units and power quality modules are used for each generator, then fault detection capability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the generator control unit and power quality module into a single integrated control unit. The control unit includes a processor that executes instructions to perform both generator control functions and power quality monitoring functions, eliminating the need for separate modules and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive fault detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated control unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it controls generator operation, monitors power quality parameters, detects faults, and manages power distribution. This multi-functional approach allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized modules, reducing weight and complexity.
2Power
If extensive cabling is used to connect generators to control modules and power buses, then power distribution capability is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power quality monitoring and control functions from remote locations and places them directly at the generator source. By locating the control unit near the generator, the system eliminates the need for extensive cabling to transport control signals and power quality data over long distances, thereby reducing cabling weight while maintaining full power distribution capability.
3Reliability
If redundant control modules are used for fault protection, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fault detection and protection functions into the integrated control unit that already exists for generator control. The processor within the control unit executes instructions to monitor for faults and implement protection schemes, eliminating the need for separate redundant protection modules and processors while maintaining comprehensive fault protection capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
An example aircraft electrical system (20) includes a generator (22) coupled with a gas turbine engine (12) and a controller (21) operable to distribute power of the generator (22). The controller (21) includes a first control module (24) positioned at a first location remote from the generator (22) and a second control module (26) positioned at a second location proximate the generator (22). The first control module (24) is configured to verify at least one output of the generator (22), detect a fault condition of the generator (22), and control operation of at least one power bus (32) in communication with the first control module (24). The second control module (26) is configured to regulate the at least one output of the generator (22), where the at least one output includes a voltage.