Identification module for turbine engine or auxiliary power unit with extended data storage capacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional identification modules in turbine engines and auxiliary power units have limited data storage capacity, requiring frequent hardware changes and re-certification for upgrading, which is costly and impractical, especially for mature systems with legacy electronic control systems.
Innovation Solution
The use of digital potentiometers in various configurations (parallel, series, or combination) to create an identification module with extended data storage capacity, allowing for reprogramming without hardware manipulation and maintaining compatibility with legacy control systems, thereby increasing storage without increasing part count or complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If conventional identification modules are used with limited data storage capacity, then hardware changes and re-certification are required for upgrading storage capacity, but this increases cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of storage from traditional volatile memory to non-volatile memory, enabling persistent storage of engine parameters without requiring hardware changes or re-certification. This parameter change allows the system to maintain limited complexity while achieving extended data storage capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The identification module is designed to serve multiple functions: storing engine serial numbers, calibration parameters, and operational data simultaneously. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate storage systems and avoids additional hardware complexity while providing extended data storage capacity
2Quantity of substance
If digital potentiometers are used to extend data storage capacity, then storage capacity increases, but device complexity may increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple digital potentiometers are merged into a single identification module unit, integrating extended data storage functionality without increasing the overall part count. The module combines serial number storage, calibration parameter storage, and operational data storage in one compact device that interfaces with the existing control system without adding complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If reprogrammable digital potentiometers are used, then adaptability and reprogramming capability improve, but reliability may decrease due to reprogramming requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The identification module employs reprogrammable digital potentiometers that can be dynamically reconfigured through software without physical hardware changes. This dynamic reprogramming capability allows the system to adapt to different engine configurations and update storage requirements while maintaining reliable operation through controlled reprogramming procedures
Data Source
AI summary
Examples described herein provide an aircraft that includes an auxiliary power unit, a controller, and an identification module. The identification module includes a plurality of digital potentiometers to store information about the auxiliary power unit and readable by the controller.