Split Duct Jet Nozzle Area Control With Fewer Actuators
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing jet nozzle effective area adjustment mechanisms in gas turbine engines are bulky, heavy, and expensive due to the use of multiple actuators, segmented panels, and mechanical arms, which increase the size and weight of the engine.
Innovation Solution
A jet nozzle system with split duct panels and actuators that adjust the effective area by repositioning upper and lower split duct panels via overlap joints, utilizing a controller for command signals, and optionally incorporating seals and LVDT actuators for precise control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuators, segmented panels, and mechanical arms are used to adjust jet nozzle effective area, then the nozzle area can be adjusted to enhance engine performance, but the size, weight, and expense of the engine increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple adjustment functions into a single integrated actuator that moves both upper and lower split duct panels simultaneously. This single actuator integrates the functionality of what would traditionally require multiple separate actuators, mechanical arms, and pivot joints, thereby reducing overall system weight while maintaining the capability to adjust the jet nozzle effective area for different operating conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuator system is designed to perform multiple functions: it adjusts the effective area of the jet nozzle for performance optimization and also operates the thrust reverser mechanism. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate dedicated actuators for each function, reducing weight and complexity while maintaining adaptability across different operational modes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuators, segmented panels, and mechanical arms are used to adjust jet nozzle effective area, then the nozzle area can be adjusted to enhance engine performance, but the size and expense of the engine increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple adjustment mechanisms into a single integrated actuator system that controls both upper and lower split duct panels. This consolidation reduces the number of components from multiple actuators, mechanical arms, and pivot joints to a single actuator with associated control systems, thereby simplifying the overall device complexity while maintaining full adjustment capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The jet nozzle is segmented into upper and lower split duct panels that can be independently positioned by the actuator system. This segmentation allows for flexible area adjustment without requiring complex mechanical linkages, as each panel can be repositioned directly by the actuator to achieve the desired effective area configuration.
3Ease of operation
If traditional jet nozzle adjustment mechanisms are used, then the nozzle effective area can be controlled, but the mechanical complexity and number of components increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical linkage systems (mechanical arms, pivot joints, multiple actuators) with a more streamlined actuator system that directly positions the split duct panels. This substitution reduces mechanical complexity by eliminating intermediate mechanical components while maintaining precise control capability through direct actuator-to-panel connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic control where a single actuator can rapidly reposition the split duct panels to different configurations based on real-time operating conditions. This dynamic adjustment capability maintains ease of operation while reducing mechanical complexity, as the system adapts its configuration rather than relying on fixed mechanical linkages for each position.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A gas turbine engine for an aircraft includes a jet nozzle (410). The jet nozzle (410) includes an upper split duct panel (412) and a lower split duct panel (414) coupled with the upper split duct panel (412) via a first overlap joint (422A) and a second overlap joint (422B). The jet nozzle (410) also includes at least one actuator configured to receive a command signal from a controller, and based on the command signal, reposition the upper split duct panel (412) and lower split duct panel (414) such that an effective area of the jet nozzle (410) is adjusted.