Automated Starter Motor Initiation for Aircraft Engine Starting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft engine starting systems require manual operator intervention for starter motor operation, particularly for in-flight engine restarts, which complicates procedures and increases workload for flight crews.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a single flight deck control input device with automated controller logic that initiates starter motor operation based on predefined conditions, allowing for fully automated engine starting and reducing the need for separate controls for fuel and starter systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operator intervention is used for starter motor operation, then the operator can control the starting process, but the procedure becomes complex and flight crew workload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the starter control function with the existing fuel control lever into a single control mechanism. The fuel lever now serves dual purposes: controlling fuel flow and initiating starter motor operation through integrated controller logic that monitors lever position and automatically manages the starting sequence.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller automatically determines and executes the appropriate starting mode (windmill or starter-assisted) based on monitored parameters such as airspeed and engine state. The system self-manages the complex decision-making process without requiring flight crew intervention, reducing workload while maintaining safety.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate controls are used for fuel and starter systems, then each system can be independently controlled, but the number of controls increases and manufacturing costs rise
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel lever is designed as a multi-functional control that simultaneously manages fuel flow and starter motor initiation. The controller interprets lever position to determine both fuel valve states and starter control signals, allowing a single control to perform multiple functions that previously required separate controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the starter initiation function into the fuel control system. The controller integrates both control functions by monitoring the fuel lever position and automatically generating appropriate control signals for both the fuel shutoff valve and the starter air valve, eliminating the need for a separate starter control switch.
3Extent of automation
If automated controller logic is implemented, then starter motor operation can be initiated automatically, but the control system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors flight conditions including airspeed, engine rotational speed, and fuel lever position to automatically determine the appropriate starting mode. This feedback mechanism allows the system to adaptively control the starter motor without requiring complex pre-programmed decision trees, as the controller responds to real-time sensor data.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is pre-configured with the logic to automatically initiate starter motor operation when the fuel lever is moved to the RUN position and conditions are appropriate. This preliminary programming allows the automation to function with relatively simple controller logic that responds to predetermined conditions rather than requiring complex real-time decision-making.
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 solution simplifies flight deck operations, reduces manufacturing costs, and optimizes engine starting performance by enabling automated initiation of starter motor operation with a single control input, enhancing both pilot and mechanic workflows.
Implementation Method 1
Typically air from a pressurized air system powers the starter motor
Implementation Method 2
electrically energizes the igniters to supply fuel and ignition to the combustor where the fuel ignites
Implementation Method 3
supply fuel and ignition to the combustor where the fuel ignites
Data Source
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AI summary
An aircraft includes an aircraft engine, a starter motor, an engine fuel delivery system, an engine ignition system, and a controller communicatively coupled to the starter motor, engine fuel delivery system, and engine ignition system. The controller is configured to automatically initiate operation of the starter motor as needed to start the aircraft engine while the aircraft engine is not running. Optionally, the controller may be configured to execute operations in accordance with either or both of two modes of operation. In the first mode, the controller automatically initiates operation of the starter motor for an aircraft engine that is not running while the aircraft is in flight. In the second mode, the controller automatically initiates operation of the starter motor for an aircraft engine that is not running while the aircraft is on ground. These operations can be done by a single, multi-position control.