Propulsion Derate Optimization for Adaptive Thrust Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing propulsion systems in vehicles face rapid degradation and increased maintenance costs due to the inconsistent application of fixed derate values, which do not account for varying journey conditions, often leading operators to use full thrust capacity despite potential adverse effects.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using an algorithm to determine an optimized derate for propulsion systems based on vehicle models, kinematic and dynamic equations, and objective functions, considering parameters like degradation, emissions, and energy consumption, allowing for dynamic adjustment of thrust capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If full thrust capacity is used to meet path requirements, then vehicle performance is improved, but propulsion system degradation increases rapidly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic derate adjustment that adapts to real-time journey conditions, vehicle state, and environmental factors. The system transitions from static fixed derate values to dynamic optimization, continuously adjusting thrust capacity based on actual operational requirements and constraints to balance performance with propulsion system preservation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the derate parameter from a fixed value to an optimized variable determined by algorithms considering multiple factors including journey characteristics, vehicle state, environmental conditions, and propulsion system health. This parameter transformation enables adaptive thrust management that resolves the contradiction between performance and degradation.
2Reliability
If fixed derate value is applied to reduce maintenance costs, then propulsion system degradation is reduced, but vehicle operator defaults to full thrust capacity in adverse conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts derate values based on journey-specific conditions, vehicle state, and environmental factors, eliminating the need for operators to manually override fixed derate settings. The dynamic optimization adapts to adverse weather and journey requirements automatically, maintaining suitability across diverse operational scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that consider actual journey conditions, vehicle performance, and propulsion system state to continuously optimize derate values. This feedback loop ensures derate settings remain appropriate for different journey types and conditions, preventing operator default to full thrust capacity.
3Loss of energy
If fixed derate is used to limit usable thrust capacity, then operating costs are reduced, but vehicle performance may be insufficient for adverse weather journeys
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically optimizes derate values to achieve the lowest possible operating costs while ensuring sufficient vehicle performance for each specific journey. By adapting to real-time conditions including weather, terrain, and vehicle state, the system avoids both excessive derate limitations and unnecessary full-thrust operation, resolving the cost-performance trade-off.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the derate parameter from a fixed cost-reduction value to an optimized variable that balances operating costs with performance requirements. The algorithm determines optimal derate settings based on journey characteristics, environmental conditions, and vehicle state, ensuring cost efficiency without compromising necessary vehicle performance.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A computer-implemented method of enabling optimisation of derate for a propulsion system of a vehicle, the method comprising: determining a derate for the propulsion system of the vehicle using: an algorithm; a vehicle model defining path constraints for the vehicle through space; a propulsion system model defining parameters of the propulsion system; an objective function defining one or more objectives; and controlling output of the determined derate.