Multi-Channel Variable Diffuser Valve to Replace Pivoting Vanes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional variable diffusers in aircraft cabin air compressors have high part counts, leading to increased maintenance costs and wear due to multiple vanes that pivot against a shroud or backing plate, which complicates the compression process and requires more repairs.
Innovation Solution
A variable diffuser design incorporating multiple diffuser channels controlled by a valve that moves between positions to obstruct or allow airflow through specific channels, eliminating the need for individual vanes and reducing the overall part count and weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple vanes are used to control airflow in a traditional variable diffuser, then the diffuser can vary flow through the diffuser, but the vanes experience increased wear and require more repairs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual vane components into a single integrated valve assembly. Instead of having multiple separate vanes that each pivot independently, the invention uses one valve with multiple stems that collectively control airflow through multiple channels. This consolidation eliminates the wear issues associated with multiple pivoting vanes while maintaining the same flow control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The single valve assembly performs the function of multiple vanes simultaneously. The valve with its multiple stems can control airflow through multiple diffuser channels at once, providing multi-functionality in a single component. This universal valve design replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate vane components.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple vanes with multiple parts are used in a traditional variable diffuser, then the diffuser can be adjusted for different flow settings, but the part count increases and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate vane components and their associated parts into a single integrated valve assembly. Instead of having multiple independent vanes each requiring pivots, seals, and mounting hardware, the invention uses one valve body with multiple stems that collectively perform the same function. This merging dramatically reduces the total part count while maintaining multiple operational settings.
Solution Approach 2:
The single valve assembly provides multiple operational settings through its multiple stems, each capable of independently controlling a diffuser channel. This multi-functional valve design eliminates the need for multiple separate components while preserving the ability to adjust airflow through different channels for various operating conditions.
3Ease of operation
If traditional variable diffuser design with many parts is used, then the diffuser can control airflow, but the cost of building and maintaining the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple separate components into a single valve assembly, reducing the number of parts that need to be manufactured, assembled, and maintained. This merging of components into one integrated unit simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces assembly complexity, thereby lowering production costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The single valve assembly performs multiple airflow control functions that would traditionally require multiple separate components. This multi-functional design reduces the overall part count, which directly lowers manufacturing costs, assembly costs, and maintenance expenses while preserving full airflow control capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A variable diffuser includes a backing plate, a shroud, a first divider between the backing plate and the shroud, a first diffuser channel between the backing plate and the first divider, a second diffuser channel between the first divider and the shroud, the second diffuser channel, and a valve controlling flow through the second diffuser channel. The valve moves between a first position and a second position. The first diffuser channel includes a first channel inlet and a first outlet. The second diffuser channel includes a second channel inlet adjacent to the first channel inlet and a second outlet adjacent to the first outlet.