Single Actuator Control for Gas Turbine Variable Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gas turbine engine control systems for variable geometry equipment items across different engine bodies are cumbersome, heavy, and costly due to the need for distinct control systems and actuators for each body, leading to inefficiencies and increased risk of failure, especially at low speeds.
Innovation Solution
A single actuator system controls multiple variable geometry equipment items across different engine bodies by synchronizing their operation through a shared actuation mechanism, reducing the number of components and maintaining performance and reliability across varying speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If distinct control systems are provided for each body, then reliability is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control of variable geometry equipment from both the high-pressure body and low-pressure body into a single integrated control system. The control means receives signals for both equipment items and transmits control signals through a unified actuator system, eliminating the need for separate control circuits and actuators for each body.
Solution Approach 2:
The control means is designed with multi-functionality to handle control of different variable geometry equipment items across multiple engine bodies. A single actuator can control both the high-pressure body equipment and low-pressure body equipment, making the control system universal rather than dedicated to a single function or body.
2Reliability
If distinct control systems are provided for each body, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple control functions into a single integrated control means that manages variable geometry equipment across both high-pressure and low-pressure bodies. This consolidation reduces the number of separate control circuits, actuators, and associated components, thereby simplifying the overall device architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The control means is designed as a universal controller capable of managing different types of variable geometry equipment items. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for dedicated control systems for each body, reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive control capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If distinct control systems are provided for each body, then adaptability is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control means is designed as a universal platform that can adapt to control different variable geometry equipment items in both high-pressure and low-pressure bodies. This standardized multi-functional design reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need to produce and integrate multiple separate control systems, while still providing the necessary adaptability through software or control logic configuration.
4Weight of moving object
If a single actuator controls multiple equipment items, then weight is reduced, but reliability may worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a single actuator system that controls multiple variable geometry equipment items across both engine bodies. This consolidation eliminates redundant actuators and their associated components (servo valves, ducting, harnesses), significantly reducing the overall weight of the control system while maintaining reliable control through centralized management.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for controlling at least two sets of variable geometry equipment of a gas turbine engine including at least one first body and a second body, the first set of equipment being a stage of variable stator vanes of a compressor of the first body moving between a closed position during idling and an open position at high speed, and the second set of equipment being at least one bleed valve of a compressor of the second body moving between an open position during idling and a closed position at high speed. An actuator actuates the two sets of equipment.