Electromagnetic Propeller Brake Using Generator Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing braking systems for gas turbine engines, such as mechanical brakes, increase installation size and weight, and are prone to component or interfacing system failures, making them unsuitable for reducing propeller or fan thrust during idle modes without adding complexity and risk.
Innovation Solution
The use of an electrical generator as an electronic brake, which converts generated electrical power into mechanical torque to slow or stop the propulsor in a second operation mode, leveraging existing components to minimize additional hardware and weight, and utilizing existing electrical architectures for power sourcing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical brakes are used to slow or stop the propulsor, then the propeller thrust can be limited during ground operations, but the installation size and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical generator is designed to perform dual functions: generating electrical power during normal operation and providing electromagnetic braking during ground operations. By making the electrical generator multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for a separate mechanical braking system, thereby reducing installation size and weight while maintaining safety during ground operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical braking system with an electromagnetic braking system. The electrical generator uses electromagnetic forces to slow or stop the propulsor during ground operations, substituting mechanical friction-based braking with field-based electromagnetic control. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity, weight, and installation space
2Reliability
If mechanical brakes are installed to reduce propeller thrust, then ground safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical generator serves multiple purposes: power generation during flight and electromagnetic braking during ground operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate braking components, reducing mechanical complexity while ensuring ground safety through controlled electromagnetic torque
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical braking mechanisms with a simpler electromagnetic control system. By using the electrical generator's electromagnetic field to provide braking torque, the system eliminates mechanical brake components, linkages, and actuators, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining ground operation safety
3Weight of stationary object
If an electrical generator is used for braking, then weight and size are minimized, but additional hardware is required
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical generator is designed to perform dual functions: power generation and electromagnetic braking. By making this existing component multi-functional, the patent avoids adding separate braking hardware, thereby minimizing weight and size increases while managing hardware configuration through software control
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical generator serves itself by using its own electromagnetic field and structure to provide braking function. The same generator that produces electrical power during normal operation automatically provides electromagnetic torque control during ground operations, eliminating the need for dedicated braking hardware and reducing overall system weight
4Speed
If mechanical brakes are used, then propulsor speed can be controlled, but system reliability decreases due to component failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical braking components with an electromagnetic control system. The electrical generator uses electromagnetic torque to control propulsor speed during ground operations, eliminating mechanical friction, wear, and associated failure modes. This substitution improves system reliability while maintaining precise speed control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical generator uses its own electromagnetic field and control system to regulate propulsor speed without relying on separate mechanical braking components. This self-contained approach reduces the number of potential failure points and improves overall system reliability while maintaining speed control
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
This approach allows for selective reduction of thrust with minimal weight and size increase, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of system failures by using electromotive forces to control propeller or fan rotation, while maintaining engine operation for power supply during idle modes.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical motor configured to generate electrical power in response to the rotation of the propulsor in a first operation mode
Implementation Method 2
slow or stop the rotation of the propulsor in a second operation mode
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are described for using an electrical motor to slow down or stop a propulsor during an operation mode where the engine is to be otherwise running but the speed of the propulsor should be low or the propulsor should be stopped.