Engine-Mounted Bird Deterrent Projection for Aircraft Inlets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft, particularly those with turbomachine engines, are susceptible to bird strike events, which can cause significant damage and safety threats, especially at low altitudes during takeoff.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a bird strike prevention system using projectors that emit light in specific wavelengths visible only to birds, such as ultraviolet light, to project images that deter birds from approaching the engine inlet and exhaust hazard areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional passive protection methods are used, then structural integrity is maintained, but bird strike vulnerability remains high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical protection structures with an optical projection system. Instead of using bulky physical barriers or complex mechanical detection systems, the invention uses a projector to display optical images that deter birds, substituting a simple optical device for complex mechanical protection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary element (projected image) between the aircraft engine and the birds. The projection system creates visual barriers or deterrent images that mediate the interaction between birds and the engine, preventing direct contact without requiring physical barriers.
2Reliability
If physical barriers are installed to protect the engine, then bird strike protection is improved, but aircraft performance and aerodynamics deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention substitutes physical barriers with an optical projection system, eliminating the need for bulky protective structures that would interfere with aerodynamics and aircraft performance. The projection system maintains protection functionality without the mechanical constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The projected image acts as a virtual thin barrier that provides protection without the physical presence of thick shells or structures. This optical 'film' maintains aerodynamic cleanliness while providing the necessary protective function.
3Power
If larger engine inlets are used to increase power, then engine power increases, but the hazard area and bird strike risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The projection system performs preliminary action by creating visual deterrents before birds enter the hazard area. The projected images are displayed in advance to warn and deter birds from approaching the engine inlet, preventing strikes before they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The projected image serves as an intermediary warning system between the large engine inlet and approaching birds, allowing the engine to maintain its large size for power while the optical mediator prevents birds from entering the hazard zone.
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
The system effectively reduces bird strikes by causing birds to alter their flight path, minimizing damage to the aircraft and reducing maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
projectors that emit light in specific wavelengths visible only to birds, such as ultraviolet light
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, a device for preventing bird strikes to an engine. The device includes a projector mounted on a component of the engine. The projector is positioned to project an image outside of the engine. In another aspect, an engine for an aircraft. The engine includes an engine component and a projector mounted on the engine component. The projector is positioned to project an image outside of the engine.