Moveable Ejector Member for Boundary Layer Alleviation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for mitigating boundary layers on aircraft flow surfaces are inadequate, necessitating a more effective solution for managing and controlling boundary layers in various flight conditions.
Innovation Solution
A modifiable aircraft ejector system that can change its flow path to different positions, controlled by a sensor and actuation device, allowing for the capture and management of boundary layers through a combination of mechanical and digital control mechanisms, enabling precise adjustment of the ejector member to alter the flow path and entrain boundary layers with the exhaust stream.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed ejector system is used for boundary layer mitigation, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot adapt to varying flight conditions and optimize boundary layer capture
Solution Approach 1:
The ejector system incorporates a moveable ejector member that can be positioned at different locations relative to the boundary layer formation surface. This dynamic positioning capability allows the system to adapt to varying flight conditions and optimize boundary layer capture, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that responds to changing operational requirements
2Productivity
If the ejector member is made moveable to adjust flow path position, then boundary layer capture is optimized, but the device complexity increases due to actuation mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that detect boundary layer characteristics and feed this information to a controller, which then adjusts the ejector member position accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism enables automatic optimization of boundary layer capture while reducing the complexity of manual control systems
Solution Approach 2:
The ejector system is designed to automatically adjust its own configuration based on sensor feedback without requiring external intervention. The controller autonomously positions the ejector member to optimize performance, allowing the system to serve itself and reducing operational complexity
3Measurement precision
If sensors and controllers are added for precise ejector control, then boundary layer management is optimized, but the system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor and controller system is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting boundary layer characteristics, determining optimal ejector positioning, and actuating the position adjustment. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby managing complexity while maintaining measurement precision
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 solution effectively manages boundary layers by allowing for precise control of the ejector member's position, optimizing boundary layer capture and management across varying flight conditions, enhancing aircraft performance and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an ejector structured to capture the boundary layer formed on the aircraft flow surface and entrain the boundary layer with a stream from the gas turbine engine exhaust
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft having a moveable ejector member for assisting in alleviating a boundary layer flowing along an aircraft surface is disclosed. The moveable ejector member is capable of being placed at a variety of positions between a fully open position and a nested position to entrain the boundary layer with another fluid flow. The ejector member can take the form of an ejector shroud used with a nacelle. In some forms, a gas turbine engine is used to provide an ejector flow to entrain the boundary layer through the flow path.