Anti-icing Valve Locking Mechanism for Stable Nacelle Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing anti-icing systems for gas turbine engines with a series two-valve configuration face instability issues due to differing pressure regulating setpoints, leading to excessive bleed extraction and increased fuel consumption when the primary valve becomes incapable of regulation.
Innovation Solution
An anti-icing valve with a locking mechanism that locks the valve in a partially open position, such as 3/4 open, to constrict hot air flow from the compressor section to the nacelle, maintaining stable flow in both normal and backup modes by acting as a fixed orifice.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a series two-valve configuration is used with different pressure regulating setpoints, then system stability is improved, but excessive bleed extraction occurs and fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the pressure regulating setpoint of the secondary valve to match the primary valve's setpoint. This parameter alignment ensures that both valves regulate at the same pressure level, eliminating excessive bleed extraction while maintaining system stability. The matching setpoints allow the backup valve to operate efficiently without causing additional fuel consumption when the primary valve becomes incapable of regulation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the secondary valve has a higher pressure regulating setpoint for system stability, then stability is improved, but flow increases and drives excessive bleed extraction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of the secondary valve's pressure regulating setpoint from a higher value to match the primary valve's setpoint. This parameter modification reduces the flow through the secondary valve, thereby decreasing bleed extraction from the engine core flow while preserving the system's stability characteristics.
3Quantity of substance
If two mechanical pressure regulating valves with the same setpoint are used in series, then flow consistency is improved, but system stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by providing a locking mechanism that can lock the secondary valve in a predetermined partially open position. This preliminary positioning ensures that the valve maintains a consistent flow characteristic while the locking mechanism provides the necessary stability. The locking mechanism prevents unwanted valve movement that would otherwise cause instability, while still allowing the valve to be positioned for optimal flow consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the two valves, providing stability to the secondary valve position. This intermediary element ensures that the secondary valve maintains its predetermined position, allowing both valves to operate with consistent flow characteristics without compromising system stability.
4Reliability
If the anti-icing valve is fully open, then maximum anti-icing protection is provided, but excessive hot air flow increases fuel consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by providing a locking mechanism that locks the anti-icing valve in a predetermined partially open position rather than fully open. This partial opening provides sufficient anti-icing protection for normal operating conditions while reducing the hot air flow and associated fuel consumption. The valve can still be opened fully when maximum anti-icing protection is required, but the locked partially open position optimizes the balance between protection and energy efficiency.
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 solution stabilizes the anti-icing system, reducing excessive bleed extraction and fuel consumption while maintaining effective anti-icing functionality, ensuring consistent performance in both operational modes.
Implementation Method 1
The anti-icing valve includes a locking mechanism operative to lock the anti-icing valve in the partially open position
Data Source
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AI summary
A gas turbine engine (20) is provided having a nacelle (80) and a compressor section (24) constructed and arranged to generate hot air. An anti-icing system is constructed and arranged to discharge the hot air from the compressor section (24) to the nacelle (80). An anti-icing valve (88) is positioned in the anti-icing system and constructed and arranged to control a flow of the hot air from the compressor section (24) to the nacelle (80). The anti-icing valve (88) includes a partially open position (154) to constrict a flow of the hot air from the compressor section (24) to the nacelle (80).