Engine Effector Position Measurement Using Non-Contact TOF Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring engine effector positions in variable geometry turbines face challenges such as mechanical wear, susceptibility to environmental conditions, and interference from other engine components, affecting control precision and reliability.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a time-of-flight (TOF) sensor within an effector actuator to measure the distance to a reflecting surface, combined with self-calibration mechanisms to account for varying operating conditions, ensuring accurate and robust effector position measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If mechanical linkage or traditional sensors are used for effector position measurement, then the measurement system is simple to implement, but mechanical wear and susceptibility to environmental conditions reduce reliability and measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical linkage and traditional contact-based sensors with a time-of-flight (TOF) sensor system that uses optical or electromagnetic waves to measure effector position. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear and improves reliability while maintaining measurement capability through non-contact detection methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a TOF sensor as an intermediary measurement device that indirectly determines effector position by measuring the time for light or electromagnetic waves to travel to and from the effector. This intermediary approach avoids direct mechanical contact while providing precise position data through temporal measurement.
2Measurement precision
If traditional sensors are used without calibration, then the system is easier to operate, but environmental conditions and interference reduce measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-calibration mechanism that performs preliminary calibration actions automatically during system operation. The TOF sensor system calibrates itself by referencing known positions or using internal reference signals, eliminating the need for manual calibration procedures while maintaining high measurement precision under varying environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the measurement system to perform its own calibration without external intervention. The self-calibration feature allows the TOF sensor system to automatically compensate for environmental variations and maintain measurement accuracy, reducing operational complexity while improving precision.
3Reliability
If conventional measurement methods are used, then the device structure is simple, but mechanical wear and interference from engine components reduce durability and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement systems with a non-contact TOF sensor system that uses optical or electromagnetic fields. This substitution eliminates mechanical wear on both the sensor and the effector, significantly improving durability and reliability while maintaining precise control capability throughout the system's operational life.
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 provides precise and reliable control of engine effectors by maintaining accuracy under different operating conditions, reducing mechanical wear, and minimizing interference, thereby enhancing engine performance.
Implementation Method 1
A system utilizing a time-of-flight (TOF) sensor within an effector actuator to measure the distance to a reflecting surface
Data Source
AI summary
A system for engine effector position measurement including an effector actuator of an engine, the effector actuator comprising a house and one or more movable elements for changing an effector position of an effector coupled to the effector actuator and a time-of-flight (TOF) sensor within a housing of the effector actuator and positioned to measure a distance between the TOF sensor and a reflecting surface within the housing to determine the effector position of the effector.