Aircraft Generator Coolant Circuit With Split Flow Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coolant systems for aircraft generators suffer from inefficiencies due to excessive power consumption and the need for large reservoirs, as the pressure relief valve is located downstream of the cooler, leading to unnecessary fluid flow and pressure drop in the cooling system.
Innovation Solution
A coolant system with two separate fluid flow sources and a valve arrangement that directs fluid flow based on operational parameters, such as pressure, to optimize fluid distribution before reaching the generator components, reducing power consumption and reservoir size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the pressure relief valve is located downstream of the cooler, then the generator is cooled, but excessive power is consumed due to unnecessary fluid flow through the cooler
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid circuit is segmented into multiple paths: a first fluid flow source delivers fluid through the cooler to the generator, while a second fluid flow source delivers fluid directly to the generator bypassing the cooler. This segmentation allows selective cooling based on operational needs, reducing unnecessary power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts fluid flow distribution using a valve arrangement that responds to measured operational parameters (such as temperature or power demand). The valve selectively directs the second fluid flow to either the cooler path or directly to the generator, optimizing power consumption based on real-time conditions.
2Temperature
If the pressure relief valve is located downstream of the cooler, then the generator is cooled, but the reservoir must be relatively large to accommodate the coolant flow
Solution Approach 1:
The fluid circuit is divided into two separate flow sources, allowing independent control of cooling fluid volume. The second fluid flow source can supplement the first flow source during high-demand periods without requiring the reservoir to accommodate the full flow volume, thus reducing reservoir size.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters of the fluid flow sources based on generator needs. By controlling the valve arrangement to direct the second fluid flow selectively, the system adjusts the total fluid volume required in the reservoir while maintaining effective cooling.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the valve arrangement directs the second fluid flow away from the cooling path, then pump power consumption is reduced, but the generator may not receive sufficient cooling
Solution Approach 1:
The valve arrangement dynamically responds to measured operational parameters of the generator (such as temperature, load, or speed) to selectively direct the second fluid flow. When cooling demand is high, the valve directs more fluid through the cooler path; when cooling demand is low, it directs fluid directly to the generator, optimizing both cooling effectiveness and power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from measured operational parameters to control the valve arrangement. This closed-loop control ensures that the generator receives sufficient cooling by adjusting the fluid flow distribution based on actual generator conditions, preventing overheating while minimizing power consumption.
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 configuration reduces power consumption by minimizing unnecessary fluid flow through the cooler, allows for a smaller reservoir, and ensures continuous cooling, thereby improving efficiency and reducing weight.
Implementation Method 1
a fluid circuit with a fluid therein, the fluid for cooling an electricity generator located in the fluid circuit
Implementation Method 2
a valve arrangement configured to selectively direct at least a proportion of the second fluid flow away from the cooling path in dependence on a measured operational parameter of the generator
Data Source
AI summary
A coolant system is arranged to be driven by a prime mover of an aircraft. The coolant system comprises a fluid circuit with a fluid therein, the fluid for cooling an electricity generator located in the fluid circuit. The fluid circuit comprises: a cooling path passing via at least one cooled component of the generator; a first fluid flow source configured to deliver a first fluid flow to the cooling path; a second fluid flow source configured to generate a second fluid flow; and a valve arrangement configured to selectively direct at least a proportion of the second fluid flow away from the cooling path in dependence on a measured operational parameter of the generator. An aircraft propulsion system and an aircraft can also include the coolant system.