Integrated Drive Generator Pump Plate Webbing
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing pump plate in integrated drive generators for aerospace applications is inadequate for higher output requirements, as it permits insufficient flow and may be too weak structurally, with a flow rate to volume ratio of 10, which limits its ability to provide the necessary fluid flow for efficient operation.
Innovation Solution
A pump plate design with first and second parallel faces and webbing reinforcements, where the webbing thickness is less than the plate thickness, providing a volume ratio of 20.8, and a flow rate to volume ratio of 2.5, constructed from cast ductile iron, with multiple discrete passages and webs to enhance structural integrity and fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the pump plate is constructed with traditional webbing reinforcements and passage design, then structural integrity is maintained, but flow rate is insufficient for higher output requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the geometric parameters of the pump plate by reducing webbing thickness relative to plate thickness, achieving a volume ratio of 20.8. This parameter optimization increases the passage volume available for fluid flow while maintaining adequate structural strength, thereby improving flow rate from 0.35 in³/rev to 0.40 cubic inch per revolution
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces multiple discrete passages and multiple discrete webs in three-dimensional space, creating a complex spatial arrangement that maximizes flow paths while distributing structural support. This dimensional approach allows the pump plate to achieve both high flow rate and structural integrity simultaneously
2Productivity
If the passage volume is increased to improve flow rate, then fluid flow efficiency improves, but the pump plate becomes too weak structurally
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the thickness ratio between webbing and plate, achieving a volume ratio of 20.8. This specific parameter change allows the pump plate to provide sufficient passage volume (0.150 in³ and 0.161 in³) for high flow rate while the remaining material provides necessary structural strength and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses cast ductile iron material with optimized geometry to create a composite-like structure where the webbing portions provide structural strength and the passage portions provide flow capacity. The material and geometric combination achieves both reliability and productivity
Data Source
AI summary
An integrated drive generator includes a pump plate having first and second parallel faces defining a first thickness. A passage extends between the first and second faces through the pump plate. Webbing is provided in the passage having a second thickness less than the first thickness. The webbing provides a first volume and the passage provides a second volume. A ratio of the second volume to the first volume is 20.8.