Fan Variable Area Nozzle Position Measurement Using Remote Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas turbine engines with fixed geometry fan nozzles face challenges in optimizing performance across different flight conditions, particularly due to the complexity and weight of mechanisms used in variable area nozzles for determining nozzle position, especially in asymmetric operations.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight positional measurement system using sensors within the core nacelle to remotely measure the position of fan variable area nozzle flaps through signals like optical, microwave, or laser waves, allowing for efficient determination of nozzle position and control during symmetrical and asymmetrical thrust vectoring operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional linkage mechanisms with linear variable displacement transducers are used to determine fan variable area nozzle position, then position measurement is achieved, but the system becomes complicated and heavy in weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical linkage system with electromagnetic fields. Transceivers transmit electromagnetic signals that reflect off the nozzle flaps to determine position, eliminating the need for physical linkages and linear variable displacement transducers. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the mechanical linkage system. By using electromagnetic signals to sense flap position independently, the system separates the measurement function from the actuation mechanism, allowing the linkage to be simplified or removed entirely.
2Measurement precision
If conventional linkage mechanisms with linear variable displacement transducers are used to determine fan variable area nozzle position, then position measurement is achieved, but the system weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces heavy mechanical components (linkages, transducers) with lightweight electromagnetic sensing systems. The transceivers use electromagnetic fields to sense flap position without requiring physical connection to the moving nozzle components, significantly reducing system weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the measurement function from the mechanical structure, allowing the position determination system to be implemented with minimal added weight. The electromagnetic sensing system requires only small transceiver units rather than heavy mechanical linkages.
3Device complexity
If fixed geometry fan nozzles are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but engine performance cannot be optimized across different flight conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic nozzle system where flaps can change position to vary the exit area. The nozzle transitions from a fixed geometry structure to a dynamically adjustable structure that can adapt its configuration based on flight conditions, enabling performance optimization while maintaining reasonable structural complexity through the use of actuators and sensing systems.
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 solution provides an effective and lightweight method for determining the position of fan variable area nozzles, enabling optimized engine performance across various flight conditions while reducing mechanical complexity and weight, thereby enhancing thrust efficiency and fuel economy.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor system located within the core nacelle to remotely measure the position of each flap or set of flaps through a transmitted signal such as an optical, microwave, radio wave, laser or other signal which reflects off of the flap or set of flaps
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A positional measurement system for a fan variable area nozzle (FVAN) remotely determines the position of each flap or set of flaps relative a core nacelle. The positional measurement system includes a sensor system with a multiple of transceivers located within the core nacelle to remotely measure the position of each flap or set of flaps without the heretofore necessity of moving measurement components.