Flow Diverting Wind Tunnel for Mode Transformation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional wind tunnels are limited in their operational flexibility, as they are typically designed as either open-return or closed-return systems, lacking the ability to easily switch between modes or recondition air within a closed-return system without extended downtimes.
Innovation Solution
A wind tunnel device that allows for the selective diversion of airflow, enabling operation as either an open-return or closed-return tunnel, and includes features like rotatable turning vanes and dampers to redirect airflow, allowing for quick reconditioning of air by transforming between closed and open-loop configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a wind tunnel is designed as a closed-return system, then air is continuously recirculated internally within the wind tunnel, but the system lacks flexibility to switch between operational modes and requires extended downtimes for air reconditioning
Solution Approach 1:
The wind tunnel incorporates movable members (baffles/dampers) that can dynamically change position between open and closed configurations, allowing the system to transition between closed-return and open-return operational modes. This dynamic adjustment enables operational flexibility without requiring system redesign or extended downtime for mode changes.
2Productivity
If a wind tunnel is designed as an open-return system, then air passes through the test section once and is expelled to the environment, but the system cannot efficiently recondition air without complete system shutdown
Solution Approach 1:
The movable baffles or dampers can be rapidly repositioned to switch between open and closed configurations, enabling the wind tunnel to transition from open-return mode to closed-return mode for efficient air reconditioning. This dynamic capability allows reconditioning to occur during operation without complete system shutdown, significantly reducing reconditioning time and maintaining productivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a wind tunnel uses fixed operational configuration, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot transform between open-return and closed-return modes
Solution Approach 1:
The wind tunnel flow path is segmented into controllable sections using movable baffles or dampers positioned at strategic locations. These segmented control elements can be independently adjusted to redirect airflow, enabling transformation between operational modes. The segmentation approach adds minimal complexity while maximizing adaptability, as each baffle/damper is a simple, isolated component.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable baffles or dampers serve multiple functions: they control airflow direction, enable mode transformation between open-return and closed-return configurations, and can be used for air reconditioning. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity by using a single mechanism to achieve multiple operational capabilities.
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
Enables flexible operation between open and closed return modes, facilitating efficient air reconditioning without prolonged downtimes, thereby enhancing operational versatility and reducing maintenance needs.
Implementation Method 1
a fan positioned in the tunnel and configured to circulate air through the tunnel
Implementation Method 2
one or more movable members positioned in the tunnel... permit re-circulation of air through the tunnel
Data Source
AI summary
A wind tunnel device is provided herein that enables the wind tunnel to transform between two modes of operation and/or to refresh/recondition air within the tunnel. The wind tunnel device may provide selective diversion of airflow within the wind tunnel. The diversion of airflow may enable the wind tunnel device to include a multi-configurable wind tunnel that can be operated as either an open-return wind tunnel or a closed-return wind tunnel. Additionally, or alternatively, the diversion of airflow may enable the wind tunnel device to recondition air within a closed-return wind tunnel.