Multi-Mode Heat Rejection for Turbine Engine Airflow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas turbine engines face challenges in optimizing thermal and propulsive efficiencies through effective thermal management systems, particularly in managing airflow and heat exchange within the engine's thermal management system.
Innovation Solution
A variable heat exchanger array with adjustable thermal absorption capacity, controlled by movable vanes and actuators, allows for tailored airflow distribution and pressure drop adjustment to optimize cooling based on engine operating conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed heat exchanger array is used, then the structure is simple, but the thermal management system cannot adapt to varying engine operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the heat exchanger array variable rather than fixed. The heat exchanger can be moved between different positions (e.g., retracted and extended) to adapt to varying engine operating conditions. This allows the thermal management system to optimize heat exchange efficiency based on actual engine requirements while maintaining a relatively compact structure when not in use.
2Reliability
If airflow is increased through heat exchangers, then thermal management efficiency improves, but propulsive efficiency may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the heat exchanger position and airflow distribution based on engine operating conditions. During high thermal management demand, the heat exchanger is positioned to maximize heat exchange while maintaining acceptable propulsive efficiency. During propulsive efficiency-critical operations, the system reduces heat exchanger engagement or adjusts airflow to prioritize thrust generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters such as heat exchanger position, airflow distribution ratios, and thermal absorption capacity to balance thermal management and propulsive efficiency. By varying these parameters based on real-time engine conditions, the system optimizes the trade-off between cooling performance and thrust generation.
3Temperature
If thermal absorption capacity is increased, then heat rejection improves, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The variable heat exchanger array serves multiple functions: it provides thermal management, can be retracted to minimize drag, and can be positioned to optimize heat exchange based on operating conditions. This multi-functionality allows a single component to handle various thermal management scenarios without requiring multiple separate systems, thereby limiting the increase in overall system complexity.
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
Enhances thermal and propulsive efficiencies by optimizing airflow through heat exchangers, balancing thermal management requirements with propulsive engine performance.
Implementation Method 1
a variable heat exchanger array with adjustable thermal absorption capacity
Implementation Method 2
optimizing airflow through heat exchangers
Implementation Method 3
controlled by movable vanes and actuators, allows for tailored airflow distribution
Implementation Method 4
The aft flow control device comprises a first vane disposed on a first side of the outlet, and a second aft vane disposed on a second side of the outlet. The first vane and the second vane are moveable between a first position defining a diverging nozzle through the passage and a second position defining a diverging nozzle of airflow exiting the at least two heat exchangers.
Data Source
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AI summary
A turbine engine includes a duct defining an annular passage, at least two heat exchangers arranged within the annular passage and spaced circumferentially apart, a passage between the at least two heat exchangers, and a forward flow control device operable for controlling airflow through the passages.