Closed-loop Engine Testing System with Real-time Control

Solution Overview

Problem

Current engine testing procedures for turboshaft and turboprop engines are time-consuming and expensive due to the need for multiple test configurations and separate test stands, which incur significant costs and inefficiencies in preparing and maintaining equipment.

Innovation Solution

A closed-loop engine testing system that couples a dynamometer to the engine, using a controller to derive control signals from engine operation parameters, allowing for simultaneous testing of engine performance and control system functionality on a single test stand, with real-time measurement and wireless communication of hydraulic fluid pressure to control the dynamometer.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple test configurations and separate test stands are used for engine testing, then comprehensive testing of engine performance and control systems is achieved, but testing time and costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting completenessVSAvoidtesting time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple test configurations into a single integrated test stand that can accommodate both performance testing and control system testing. The test stand is designed with adjustable configurations that can be changed without moving the engine to a different facility, thereby merging the functionality of previously separate test stands into one unified system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The test stand is designed as a universal platform capable of performing multiple testing functions. It can be configured for different test types (performance testing, control system testing, propeller control testing) while maintaining the same physical infrastructure, making the system multi-functional and eliminating the need for dedicated separate test facilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple test configurations and separate test stands are used for engine testing, then comprehensive testing of engine performance and control systems is achieved, but testing costs increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting completenessVSAvoidtesting cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple test configurations into a single integrated test stand that can accommodate both performance testing and control system testing. The test stand is designed with adjustable configurations that can be changed without moving the engine to a different facility, thereby merging the functionality of previously separate test stands into one unified system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The test stand is designed as a universal platform capable of performing multiple testing functions. It can be configured for different test types (performance testing, control system testing, propeller control testing) while maintaining the same physical infrastructure, making the system multi-functional and eliminating the need for dedicated separate test facilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If engine is tested in two different configurations on separate test stands, then both performance and control systems are evaluated, but preparation time and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting completenessVSAvoidtest configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple test configurations into a single integrated test stand that can accommodate both performance testing and control system testing. The test stand is designed with adjustable configurations that can be changed without moving the engine to a different facility, thereby merging the functionality of previously separate test stands into one unified system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The test stand incorporates dynamic reconfigurability, allowing the configuration to be changed during or between tests without requiring complete disassembly or relocation of equipment. This dynamic adaptability simplifies the testing process by enabling quick transitions between different test scenarios on the same platform.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS10113936B2Closed-loop engine testing system

Publication Date: 2018.10.30 ROLLS ROYCE CORP

AI summary

According to one aspect, a system for testing an engine includes a dynamometer coupled to the engine. The dynamometer is responsive to a control signal. The system further includes a controller that derives the control signal from an engine operation parameter.