Distributed Propulsion Thrust Imbalance Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Multi-engine aircraft piloting is complex and costly due to the need for trained pilots to manage unbalanced thrusts caused by engine failures in distributed propulsion systems, which can compromise safety during critical phases like take-off and landing.
Innovation Solution
A method for managing unbalanced thrusts in aircraft with distributed propulsion systems, where each powertrain is connected to a data analysis and processing component, allowing for automatic adjustment of engine speeds and torques to maintain symmetrical thrusts around the aircraft's center of gravity, either by shutting off complementary engines or adjusting power on opposite sides to counteract imbalances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If distributed propulsion systems with multiple engines are used, then propulsion reliability and local lift are improved, but piloting complexity and management difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service through automated thrust balance control. The control system automatically detects engine failures and adjusts remaining engine thrust without pilot intervention, allowing the aircraft to self-correct thrust imbalances during critical phases like takeoff and landing
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring engine performance parameters and thrust output. The control system receives feedback from engine sensors and automatically adjusts throttle positions to maintain thrust balance, creating a closed-loop control system that eliminates the need for manual multi-engine management
2Strength
If distributed propulsion systems with multiple engines are used, then local lift and stall speed reduction are improved, but engine failure impact and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by pre-programming automated responses to engine failures. When an engine failure is detected, the control system immediately initiates compensatory thrust adjustments on remaining engines, preventing thrust imbalance from developing into a hazardous condition during critical flight phases
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts the harmful effect of engine failure into a beneficial outcome by using the failure signal as input for automated thrust balance control. The control system transforms the disruptive event into an opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness of automated multi-engine management, ultimately improving safety
3Ease of operation
If automated control systems are implemented, then piloting simplification and safety enhancement are improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system implements multi-functionality by integrating multiple functions into a single automated system. The same control system that manages normal multi-engine operation also handles failure detection, thrust balance control, and pilot assistance, eliminating the need for separate systems for each function
Data Source
AI summary
A method for managing unbalanced thrusts caused by engine failures in an aircraft provided with a distributed propulsion system, the distributed propulsion system including 2N powertrains (PTi), with N a strictly positive integer and i an integer lying between 1 and 2N inclusive, distributed symmetrically in relation to a plane of symmetry of the aircraft, according to which the power of at least one powertrain belonging to a first side of the plane of symmetry is reduced when a failure occurs in a powertrain belonging to the opposite side, such that the sum of the moments of the thrusts generated by the powertrains in relation to the center of gravity of the aircraft is nil, to within regulatory tolerances.