Bleed Flow Power Generation in Gas Turbine Engines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gas turbine engines face inefficiencies in power generation due to mechanical power extraction methods, which lead to energy losses, and there is a need for systems that can detect leaks or failures to mitigate these losses.
Innovation Solution
A bleed flow power generation system that extracts compressed fluid from the core flowpath of a gas turbine engine, directs it through a turbine rotor, and uses an electric machine to generate energy, while incorporating a bypass mechanism and flow control device to optimize energy extraction based on operating conditions, and includes a method for failure detection by monitoring turbine rotor speed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If mechanical power extraction is used to generate electric energy, then power generation capability is improved, but engine efficiency deteriorates due to energy losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical power extraction system with an aerodynamic system. Instead of using mechanical couplings to spools, the invention uses a turbine rotor that extracts energy directly from the gas flow through aerodynamic forces. This substitution eliminates the mechanical losses associated with gear assemblies and direct mechanical connections, while still generating the required electric power through the generator connected to the turbine rotor.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts a portion of the compressed fluid from the core flowpath through a bleed circuit and directs it to the turbine rotor. This extracted bleed flow is specifically utilized to drive the turbine, separating the power generation function from the main propulsion flow path. By taking out a controlled portion of the flow, the system generates power without interfering with the primary engine functions.
2Power
If bleed flow is extracted from core flowpath, then power generation is enabled, but engine efficiency deteriorates due to flow extraction losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs variable geometry components including adjustable stator vanes and variable pitch turbine blades that can change their parameters based on operating conditions. These parameter changes allow the bleed flow extraction system to optimize its performance across different engine operating points, minimizing the efficiency penalty by adapting the flow extraction characteristics to match actual power generation demands and engine state.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic control mechanisms that allow real-time adjustment of the bleed flow extraction rate and turbine rotor characteristics. This dynamic adaptation enables the system to respond to changing power demands and operating conditions, optimizing the balance between power generation and efficiency by adjusting the degree of flow extraction rather than maintaining a fixed extraction rate.
3Reliability
If turbine rotor speed is monitored, then failure detection capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The turbine rotor serves a dual function: it generates power while simultaneously acting as its own sensor through its rotational characteristics. By monitoring the rotor speed and comparing it against expected values based on engine operating conditions, the system enables failure detection without requiring separate complex sensing systems. The rotor's operational parameters provide self-diagnostic information about its health and integrity.
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 effectively generates electric energy with reduced mechanical losses and enables leak or failure detection, improving overall engine efficiency and reliability by utilizing the bleed flow to produce useful energy and reducing wastage.
Implementation Method 1
extracting, via the turbine rotor, energy from the flow of compressed fluid across the turbine rotor
Implementation Method 2
receiving energy at an electric machine operably coupled to the turbine rotor
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for bleed flow power generation is provided. The engine includes a core flowpath formed by a compressor section, a heat addition system, and an expansion section in serial flow arrangement. A bleed circuit is extended from the core flowpath to extract a portion of compressed fluid from the core flowpath. The method and system include bleeding compressed fluid through a bleed circuit extended in fluid communication from the core flowpath of the engine; flowing the compressed fluid through the bleed circuit to a turbine rotor positioned at the bleed circuit; extracting, via the turbine rotor, energy from the flow of compressed fluid across the turbine rotor; and receiving energy at an electric machine operably coupled to the turbine rotor.