Fluidic Oscillator Ejectors for Distributed Unsteady Suction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flow control systems, despite being efficient, lack the ability to effectively create a distribution of unsteady suction, which has been shown to be more efficient than steady suction in recent theoretical developments.
Innovation Solution
A method and device utilizing fluidic oscillators and ejectors to switch a fluid flow cyclically between apertures, creating pulsed suction and ejection through specific apertures on an aerodynamic surface without moving parts, allowing additional fluid to join the flow and achieve unsteady suction distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If steady suction is used for flow control, then flow control efficiency is improved, but the system cannot achieve unsteady suction distribution which has been shown to be even more efficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a fluidic oscillator to generate periodic switching of the fluid flow between different ejectors, creating unsteady suction distribution. The oscillator causes the main fluid flow to alternately switch between first and second ejectors in a cyclic manner, transforming steady suction into unsteady suction with temporal variations that enhance flow control efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The system divides the suction function into multiple spatially distributed ejectors (first ejector, second ejector, and potentially additional ejectors) that are selectively activated. Each ejector serves a specific spatial zone, and the fluidic oscillator segments the continuous flow into alternating streams directed to different ejectors, creating a distributed unsteady suction pattern across the aerodynamic surface
2Adaptability or versatility
If moving parts are used to create unsteady flow patterns, then flow control adaptability is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical moving parts with a fluidic oscillator that uses fluid dynamics principles to generate oscillatory flow switching. The oscillator relies on feedback elements and pressure differential mechanisms within the fluid stream itself, eliminating the need for mechanical actuators, motors, or moving components while achieving the same unsteady flow control function
Solution Approach 2:
The fluidic oscillator operates autonomously using the kinetic energy and pressure of the incoming fluid flow itself. The system self-regulates through internal feedback mechanisms where the fluid flow creates its own oscillations without external control inputs or mechanical actuation, making the device self-sufficient and eliminating complex control systems
3Productivity
If multiple ejectors are used to create unsteady suction, then suction distribution effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluidic oscillator serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a flow splitter, an actuator controller, and an oscillation generator. The same oscillator mechanism controls the switching between all ejectors, and the feedback elements serve both oscillation generation and flow distribution functions, reducing the need for separate control systems for each ejector
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 solution enables highly efficient unsteady suction distribution, enhancing airflow control without the need for moving parts, resulting in a robust, easy-to-manufacture, and compact device that operates across a wide range of pressure levels.
Implementation Method 1
switching a first flow of fluid, in a cyclic manner and by a fluidic oscillator, between ejectors
Implementation Method 2
The fluidic oscillator may include feedback elements that may be located at a single plane
Implementation Method 3
creating, by each one of the ejectors, (a) pulsed suction through at least one first aperture
Implementation Method 4
creating, by each one of the ejectors, (b) pulsed ejection through at least one second aperture
Data Source
AI summary
A method and device for creating a distribution of unsteady suction, the device may include ejectors; and a fluidic oscillator; wherein the fluidic oscillator may be configured to switch a first flow of fluid, in a cyclic manner, between the ejectors; wherein the ejectors may be fluidly coupled to the fluidic oscillator; and wherein each one of the ejectors may be configured to create pulsed suction through at least one first aperture, and (b) pulsed ejection through at least one second aperture.