Compact Variable Pitch Fan Hydraulic Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fan designs face challenges in achieving a compact, variable pitch mechanism that combines hydraulic drive with compact construction, particularly in limited space applications, and lack effective position sensing for precise control.
Innovation Solution
A compact variable pitch fan with a hydraulically driven pitch mechanism, featuring separated guiding and seal surfaces, and an integrated pitch sensor on the hydraulic line, allowing for precise control and position tracking of fan blades using hydraulic fluid pulses and a pitch sensor that converts motion into electrical signals for the hydraulic control system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a hydraulic drive system is used for variable pitch control, then precise control capability is improved, but device size and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The pitch control system is segmented into modular components: a pitch mechanism with piston and connecting block, a separate hydraulic control system with electronic controller, and integrated sensors. This segmentation allows precise hydraulic control while managing complexity through modular design and independent functional blocks.
2Volume of moving object
If a compact fan design is implemented, then space requirements are reduced, but the integration of hydraulic components becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The pitch mechanism piston is nested within the fan hub structure, with the piston rod extending through the hub to connect with fan blades. The hydraulic control system is integrated into the existing fan assembly, nesting multiple functions within a compact volume to achieve space efficiency while maintaining hydraulic functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The pitch mechanism utilizes axial movement of the piston along the pitch change axis to control blade pitch, transforming hydraulic pressure into linear motion that rotates fan blades about their longitudinal axes. This dimensional transformation allows compact integration of hydraulic drive with variable pitch control in a space-efficient manner.
3Measurement precision
If position sensing is added for precise pitch tracking, then control accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pitch sensor serves multiple functions: it detects piston position, determines fan blade pitch angle, provides feedback to the electronic controller for closed-loop control, and enables precise tracking of blade position. This multi-functionality improves control accuracy while minimizing the addition of separate dedicated components.
Solution Approach 2:
The pitch sensor provides real-time position feedback to the electronic controller, which uses this information to adjust hydraulic pressure and maintain precise pitch control. This feedback loop enables accurate position tracking and closed-loop control without requiring complex mechanical positioning mechanisms.
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
Enables precise control of fan blade pitch in a compact design, allowing for incremental adjustments and accurate tracking of blade position, enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency in space-constrained environments.
Implementation Method 1
A compact variable pitch fan has a hydraulically driven pitch mechanism
Implementation Method 2
an integrated pitch sensor on the hydraulic line, allowing for precise control and position tracking of fan blades using hydraulic fluid pulses and a pitch sensor that converts motion into electrical signals
Data Source
AI summary
A compact variable pitch fan has a hydraulic pitch change mechanism. A pitch change piston is constrained to follow reciprocating motion under hydraulic control within a peripheral hub from which fan blades extend outward. An additional feature is the use of separated guiding and seal surfaces. A still further feature is the use of a pitch sensor, particularly on the hydraulic line leading to the variable pitch fan.