Bleed Air Powered Auxiliary Engine With Two-Spool Turbine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas turbine engine bleed air powered systems face limitations in efficiency and practicality, particularly in applications where high power density and stability are required, especially at low Reynolds Number conditions.
Innovation Solution
A gas turbine engine system incorporating a bleed air powered auxiliary engine with a two-spool configuration, including a high pressure turbine and a low pressure turbine, connected via a gearbox to maintain a constant speed ratio, and utilizing external bleed air to enhance power output and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-spool turbine configuration is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the power density and stability deteriorate under low Reynolds Number conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The turbine is divided into two independent spools (high-pressure spool and low-pressure spool) that can rotate at different speeds. This segmentation allows each spool to be optimized for specific operating conditions, particularly improving performance at low Reynolds Numbers while maintaining overall system power density.
Solution Approach 2:
The two-spool configuration enables dynamic speed differentiation between spools, allowing the high-pressure turbine to operate at optimal speeds for high power density while the low-pressure turbine handles stability requirements. This dynamic operation resolves the contradiction between simplified design and high power density performance.
2Power
If bleed air is extracted from the compressor, then the auxiliary engine power output is enhanced, but the main engine efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
Bleed air is extracted from the compressor to power the auxiliary engine, separating a portion of the compressed air flow to drive the turbine. This extraction provides the auxiliary power output while the main engine continues to operate independently, managing the trade-off between auxiliary power and main engine efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The bleed air system acts as an intermediary, taking compressed air from the main engine and converting it to mechanical power through the auxiliary turbine. This intermediary mechanism allows power transfer without direct mechanical coupling, preserving main engine efficiency while generating auxiliary power.
3Weight of moving object
If the auxiliary engine is designed for high power density, then the weight is reduced, but the stability under low Reynolds Number conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The auxiliary power system is segmented into two spools with different functional optimizations. The high-pressure spool is designed for high power density with reduced weight, while the low-pressure spool is optimized for stability under varying flow conditions including low Reynolds Numbers. This segmentation resolves the contradiction between weight reduction and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the turbine system have different quality characteristics optimized for their specific functions. The high-pressure turbine section has geometry optimized for high power density and weight efficiency, while the low-pressure turbine section has geometry optimized for stable operation at low Reynolds Numbers. This local quality differentiation resolves the global contradiction.
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
The system achieves high power density and modular power generation, capable of producing approximately 1850 HP with power outputs of 10 HP per pound, suitable for applications like megawatt generators and pumping, while maintaining stability even at low Reynolds Number conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a first turbine in fluid communication with the second combustor; and a second turbine in fluid communication with the second combustor
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention is a unique gas turbine engine with a bleed air powered auxiliary engine. Other embodiments include apparatuses, systems, devices, hardware, methods, and combinations for bleed air powered auxiliary engines. Further embodiments, forms, features, aspects, benefits, and advantages of the present application shall become apparent from the description and figures provided herewith.