Integrated Engine-Driven Compressor for Aviation Support Carts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ground-based aviation support carts require multiple pieces of equipment to provide power, air conditioning, and bleed air, leading to high fuel consumption, operational costs, and environmental impact, as well as the need for extensive towing and handling operations.
Innovation Solution
An engine-driven compressor system with two stages of air compression, a heat exchanger, and a generator, integrated with a transmission, which provides pressurized and cooled air, and electrical power, allowing for concurrent operation of multiple functions within a single cart, utilizing centrifugal compressors and a turbo compressor unit for efficient energy recovery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate carts are used to provide power, air conditioning, and bleed air, then each function can be supplied independently, but the total fuel consumption and operational costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate support functions (power generation, air compression, and air conditioning) into a single integrated cart system. The unified system uses one engine to drive a generator, compressors, and air conditioning equipment simultaneously, eliminating the need for multiple separate carts and reducing total fuel consumption while maintaining all required functional capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated cart is designed as a multi-functional platform that can simultaneously provide electrical power, compressed air, and air conditioning to aircraft. The system uses a single engine that powers multiple functions through a common drive system, making one cart universal enough to replace several specialized carts and reduce operational costs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate carts are deployed for different support functions, then each cart can be optimized for its specific function, but the number of towing and handling operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple separate support carts into a single integrated unit that provides power, air compression, and air conditioning functions. This merger reduces the number of towing and handling operations required on the ramp, as ground crew no longer need to move multiple separate carts to different locations around the aircraft.
3Use of energy by moving object
If a single cart provides all support functions simultaneously, then fuel consumption and equipment numbers are reduced, but the system complexity and design challenges increase
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated cart system is designed with modular segmentation, dividing the complex system into distinct functional modules (engine, generator, compressors, air conditioning equipment) that can be independently designed, maintained, and replaced. This modular approach manages system complexity while enabling all functions to operate from a single cart.
4Stress or pressure
If conventional single-stage compression is used, then the system is simpler, but the maximum delivery pressure is insufficient for engine starting applications
Solution Approach 1:
The air compression system is divided into two stages, with each stage containing a compressor. The first compressor delivers air at intermediate pressure, and the second compressor further compresses the air to the high pressures required for engine starting. This segmented two-stage approach achieves the necessary delivery pressure while managing system complexity through modular design.
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 system reduces fuel consumption and operational costs, minimizes equipment needs, and enhances portability by integrating multiple functions into a single, efficient unit, achieving high-pressure air delivery and electrical power generation while reducing the environmental footprint.
Implementation Method 1
A heat exchanger is provided in the air flow path between the first air compressor and the second air compressor
Implementation Method 2
A generator is configured to convert rotational movement into electric energy
Implementation Method 3
Each of the first and second air compressors is a centrifugal compressor
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-stage, intercooled centrifugal compressor with integral power generator system for a mobile, ground-based aviation support cart is disclosed. A bootstrap-type turbo compressor module which can supply cooled air. The system may be operated in one of several modes: high pressure “bleed air” (e.g., 35-50 psig) for jet engine start, conditioned or cooled air (e.g., 2-5 psig) for aircraft cooling purposes, or electrical ground power. Electrical ground power and conditioned air may also be supplied simultaneously if desired.