Multi-Directional Fire Nozzle for Wider Engine Compartment Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fire extinguishing systems in gas turbine engines deliver fire extinguishing agents through single orifice nozzles, which limit the coverage area and require multiple nozzles to effectively extinguish fires in the core compartment, increasing complexity and potential failure points.
Innovation Solution
A multi-directional fire extinguishing nozzle that distributes fire extinguishing agent through multiple directional flows, allowing for broader coverage with fewer nozzles, utilizing a plug and hose fitting system with annulus and fluid distribution outlets to enhance delivery efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If single orifice nozzles are used to deliver fire extinguishing agent, then the system structure is simple, but the coverage area is limited and more nozzles are required
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle is segmented into multiple outlet openings (first, second, third outlets) arranged in different directions. Each outlet delivers fire extinguishing agent in a specific direction, collectively covering the entire core compartment area without requiring multiple separate nozzles.
Solution Approach 2:
The outlets are arranged in three-dimensional space with different orientations (axial, radial, and angled directions). This spatial arrangement allows the single nozzle to cover a volumetric region rather than just a linear path, expanding coverage area without increasing nozzle quantity.
2Reliability
If multiple single stream nozzles are installed to cover the core compartment, then the coverage area is sufficient, but the system complexity and potential failure points increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple outlet functions are merged into a single integrated nozzle body. The first outlet (axial direction), second outlet (radial direction), and third outlet (angled direction) are all part of one nozzle assembly, reducing the total component count while maintaining comprehensive coverage capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The single multi-directional nozzle performs multiple functions that would traditionally require separate nozzles. It simultaneously provides axial cooling, radial fire suppression, and angled area coverage, making the system more reliable by eliminating multiple potential failure points.
3Productivity
If conventional single direction nozzles are used, then the nozzle design is simple, but the delivery efficiency and coverage are limited
Solution Approach 1:
Different outlets are designed with specific local characteristics suited to their function. The first outlet provides axial flow for deep penetration, the second outlet provides radial spray for surface coverage, and the third outlet provides angled discharge for edge coverage. Each local structure is optimized for its specific delivery role, improving overall efficiency.
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 fire extinguishing coverage in the core compartment of gas turbine engines by reducing the number of nozzles required and improving delivery efficiency, thereby simplifying the system and potentially lowering maintenance costs.
Implementation Method 1
an outer surface of the hose fitting and an inner surface of the coupling nut may define an annulus. The annulus may be in fluid communication with the fluid distribution outlets.
Data Source
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Figure 2B
AI summary
A multi-directional fire extinguishing nozzle (200; 300; 400; 500) is disclosed. The multi-directional fire extinguishing nozzle (200; 300; 400; 500) may comprise a pylon fitting (270; 470; 570) configured to receive a fire extinguishing agent. The multi-directional fire extinguishing nozzle (200; 300; 400; 500) may comprise a hose fitting (280; 380; 480) coupled to the pylon fitting (270; 470; 570) via a coupling nut. The multi-directional fire extinguishing nozzle (200; 300; 400; 500) may comprise a plurality of fluid distribution outlets (295; 395; 495; 595) configured to deliver the fire extinguishing agent. The fluid distribution outlets (295; 395; 495; 595) may define voids on the surface of the coupling nut (290; 390; 490), and extending through the coupling nut (290; 390; 490) and the hose fitting (280; 380; 480).