Multi-Spool Aircraft Generator Disconnection Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas turbine engines face inefficiencies in electrical power generation due to the need for complex electronic controls or heavy gearbox arrangements when using lower speed spools, leading to larger, heavier electrical machines and reduced operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A multi-spool gas turbine engine design featuring a disconnection device and controller that selectively disconnects an auxiliary generator from its spool during predetermined engine conditions, allowing for efficient power transfer between generators and reducing the need for heavy machinery, with the controller determining optimal operating conditions based on spool speed, fuel consumption, and other parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If lower speed spools are used to drive electrical generators, then a broader speed range is achieved, but complex electronic controls or heavy gearbox arrangements are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different generator configurations based on operating conditions. The auxiliary generator is selectively connected to the low pressure spool through a disconnection device controlled by a controller, allowing the system to adapt its configuration rather than being fixed. This dynamic reconfiguration enables the system to achieve broader speed range without permanent complex mechanical arrangements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If lower speed spools are used to drive electrical generators, then a broader speed range is achieved, but heavy gearbox arrangements are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a controllable disconnection device to dynamically engage or disengage the auxiliary generator from the low pressure spool based on real-time operating conditions. This dynamic control allows the system to achieve broader speed range without permanent heavy mechanical connections, reducing overall system weight compared to fixed gearbox arrangements.
3Productivity
If an auxiliary generator is added to provide increased power, then overall efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power generation function into a separate auxiliary generator that can be independently controlled and connected to the low pressure spool. This extracted generator provides additional electrical power without requiring complete system redesign, as it operates independently alongside the main generator on the high pressure spool.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary generator serves multiple functions: it provides additional electrical power during high-demand conditions, can operate independently if the main generator fails, and can be disconnected during low-pressure conditions to reduce complexity. This multi-functionality justifies the added component while providing flexibility.
4Power
If the auxiliary generator is continuously connected to the low pressure spool, then power availability is increased, but fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The disconnection device dynamically engages or disengages the auxiliary generator based on real-time monitoring of engine operating conditions including fuel consumption rates. The controller activates the disconnection device when operating conditions indicate that the auxiliary generator should be disconnected, thereby reducing fuel consumption while maintaining power availability when needed.
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
This design enables a more lightweight and efficient means of generating electrical power, reducing fuel consumption and mechanical loads by optimizing power transfer between spools, thereby improving overall engine efficiency and reducing the weight of electrical machines.
Implementation Method 1
a first generator for providing electrical power to an electrical system, the first generator being drivably connected to a first spool
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
This invention relates to a multi-spool gas turbine engine, comprising: a first generator for providing electrical power to an electrical system, the generator being driveably connected to a first spool; a second generator for providing electrical power to the electrical system, the generator being driveably connected to a second spool; a disconnection device for disconnecting the second generator from the second spool; and, a controller configured to selectively operate the disconnection device under predetermined powered engine conditions.