Rotary Valve System for Gas Turbine Airflow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas turbine engine systems face challenges in efficiently controlling the communication of cooling air from the secondary flow path to the primary flow path, particularly during varying operational conditions, which affects engine performance and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A valve system is introduced that selectively regulates airflow between the secondary and primary flow paths using a rotating valve member and actuator system, allowing for rapid and precise control of airflow distribution through a metering plate, enabling efficient airflow management even in compact engine designs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a traditional valve system is used to control cooling air flow, then the engine structure becomes simpler, but the airflow control precision and response time deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a rotary valve member that can dynamically adjust its rotational position to modulate cooling air flow. The valve member rotates about an axis to vary the opening area, enabling continuous and precise control of airflow quantity. This dynamic adjustment mechanism allows the system to adapt to varying operational conditions while maintaining precise airflow control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a metering plate with multiple openings as an intermediary component between the secondary flow path and primary flow path. The metering plate works in conjunction with the rotary valve member to precisely regulate airflow. This intermediary structure enables fine-tuned control of cooling air distribution without requiring complex multi-component valve assemblies.
2Volume of moving object
If the valve system is made compact to fit engine constraints, then the engine size is reduced, but the airflow control capability and response speed worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system is segmented into distinct functional components: a rotary valve member with sealing surfaces, a metering plate with multiple openings, and an actuator mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining a compact overall structure. The modular design enables rapid airflow response without increasing the total valve system volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotary valve member controls airflow by rotating about an axis, utilizing rotational motion in a different dimension to modulate the opening area. This dimensional approach allows compact control of cooling air flow without requiring large linear displacement mechanisms, thereby maintaining fast response time within a compact volume.
3Temperature
If more cooling air is communicated from secondary to primary flow path, then engine cooling performance is improved, but engine efficiency and performance deteriorate due to excessive air consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the parameter of cooling air flow quantity by rotating the valve member to different angular positions. This allows dynamic adjustment of the opening area between the secondary and primary flow paths, enabling precise control of cooling air consumption. The metering plate with multiple openings further refines this control, allowing the system to optimize the balance between cooling effectiveness and air consumption based on operational conditions.
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
The valve system ensures efficient engine operation by allowing precise control of secondary airflow, optimizing its use for cooling, pressurization, and mixing, while minimizing blockage and noise, and enabling quick response times during changing operational conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a rotating valve member and actuator system, allowing for rapid and precise control of airflow distribution
Data Source
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AI summary
A valve system (30) intermediate a secondary flow path and a primary flow path selectively communicates secondary airflow into the primary gas flow path and controls airflow injected from a higher pressure plenum into a lower pressure flowpath. The system includes a valve seat (34) and a valve member (32) rotatable relative to said valve seat (34) between an open position and a closed position, said valve member (32) defining a cylindrical surface (36) which defines said closed position and a sculpted surface (38).