Aircraft Ozone Converter Internal Bypass
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft ozone converters often require external bypasses to protect the ozone-converting core from contamination and extend its lifespan, but space constraints can make this impractical, necessitating an alternative solution for managing ozone levels at varying altitudes.
Innovation Solution
An ozone converter with an internal bypass system that uses actuated panels or a rotating blocking element to control airflow through the core, allowing air to bypass the core at low altitudes and ensuring all air passes through the core at high altitudes, eliminating the need for external bypass lines or diverter components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If an external bypass is used to protect the ozone-converting core from contamination, then the converter's lifespan is extended, but additional space is required for bypass lines and diverter components
Solution Approach 1:
The bypass mechanism is nested within the converter housing itself. The diverter door is positioned inside the housing and rotates about an axis within the housing volume, allowing the bypass functionality to be contained within the existing converter footprint without requiring external bypass lines
Solution Approach 2:
The bypass mechanism is merged with the converter housing structure. The housing serves dual purposes: containing the ozone-converting core and housing the diverter door mechanism. This integration eliminates the need for separate external bypass components and reduces overall space requirements
2Reliability
If air is forced through the core at all times, then ozone is converted, but the core is exposed to contamination and its lifespan is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts airflow path based on operating conditions. The diverter door rotates between positions to either force all air through the core (when ozone conversion is needed) or allow air to bypass the core (when protection from contamination is prioritized), enabling adaptive protection of the core
Solution Approach 2:
The harmful exposure of the core to contaminated air is extracted or removed by providing an alternative bypass path. When the diverter door is in the bypass position, contaminated air is extracted from the potential path through the core and redirected through the bypass channel, protecting the core while maintaining system operation
3Adaptability or versatility
If external bypass lines and diverter components are added, then bypass functionality is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The housing serves multiple functions: it contains the ozone-converting core, provides structural support, and houses the diverter door mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional external components and simplifies the overall device structure while maintaining bypass functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The internal volume of the housing is segmented into distinct airflow paths: a core passage for ozone conversion and a bypass channel for alternative airflow. The diverter door acts as a movable partition between these segments, enabling controlled routing of air through different paths based on operational requirements
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 internal bypass system effectively manages ozone levels without additional space requirements, reducing pressure drop and preventing contamination, thereby extending the converter's lifespan and ensuring compliance with ozone regulations.
Implementation Method 1
an ozone-converting core (core) that includes a catalyst which causes the ozone to decompose to oxygen
Data Source
AI summary
An ozone converter includes an outer housing having an inlet and an outlet and a core disposed within the outer housing, the core including a central passageway formed therein and passing thorough the core. The converter also includes an ozone control assembly that allows air to pass through the central passageway in an closed mode and prevents flow thorough the central passageway in an open mode, the assembly including cover flaps that cover a portion of the core in the closed mode and that do not cover the core in the open mode.