Aircraft Power Outtake Management via Real-Time Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft power management systems lack reliable power consumption data, leading to suboptimal engine performance and increased pilot workload due to conservative power estimates.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for dynamically modifying power outtake allowance in a gas turbine engine based on real-time power consumption measurements, adjusting for thermal limits, temperature overshoot, and unpredicted events, using a control system that includes a receiving unit, processing unit, and command generation module to optimize engine performance and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conservative power outtake estimates are used according to imposed engine installation limits, then engine reliability is improved, but engine performance is not optimized and pilot workload is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts power outtake allowance based on real-time engine conditions rather than using fixed conservative estimates. The control system continuously monitors engine parameters and modifies power extraction limits adaptively, allowing the engine to operate closer to its actual capabilities while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements a feedback mechanism where the control system receives information about actual engine conditions and power consumption, then uses this feedback to adjust power outtake allowance. This closed-loop control enables the system to optimize performance while maintaining reliability by responding to actual engine state rather than relying on conservative pre-set limits.
2Reliability
If conservative power outtake estimates are used, then engine reliability is improved, but pilot workload is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs self-service by automatically monitoring engine conditions and adjusting power outtake allowance without pilot intervention. The system independently manages power extraction optimization, relieving the pilot of the workload associated with manual power management while maintaining engine reliability through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The feedback mechanism enables the system to automatically respond to changing engine conditions and power demands, eliminating the need for pilot involvement in power management decisions. The control system uses real-time feedback to autonomously optimize power outtake, reducing pilot workload while maintaining reliability.
3Productivity
If real-time power consumption measurements are implemented, then power management efficiency is improved, but device complexity is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to perform multiple functions: it monitors engine conditions, measures power consumption, determines power outtake allowance, and adjusts engine parameters. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional control unit, the system achieves improved power management efficiency while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the power management functions with the existing engine control system. Rather than adding a separate complex system, the power outtake management is integrated into the engine's control architecture, combining measurement and control functions to improve efficiency while limiting complexity growth through consolidation.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for controlling the operation of a gas turbine engine supplying power to an aircraft. The engine is controlled according to a reading of an amount of power drawn from the supplied power. The reading is fed directly to a control system, which issues commands for controlling engine parameters comprising an acceleration reference signal, load shedding, variable geometry positioning, and fuel flow. The control system may further issue commands for controlling the amount of power drawn. The control system may further use the reading to monitor the engine's condition.