Thrust Reverser Cascade Vanes with Raised Geometric Patterns
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional thrust reversers for aircraft are inefficient in providing reverse thrust and generate excessive noise, which limits their use and increases wear on landing gear and tires.
Innovation Solution
The use of cascade elements with optimized angular orientation and geometric features, such as raised patterns on vanes, to enhance airflow mixing and reduce noise, increasing reverse thrust efficiency and reducing system weight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional thrust reversers are used, then the aircraft can be stopped, but the reverse thrust efficiency is low (40-45%) and noise is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by introducing raised geometric patterns (such as ribs or dimples) at specific locations on the cascade element surfaces. These localized features modify the airflow characteristics at particular points, increasing turbulence and mixing efficiency without requiring a complete redesign of the entire thrust reverser system. This localized modification achieves improved reverse thrust efficiency while controlling noise generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes curvature principles by incorporating raised geometric patterns that create controlled turbulence and vortex formation on the cascade elements. The curved surfaces and rounded features of these patterns enhance airflow mixing and reduce noise compared to flat surfaces, improving the overall thrust reverser performance.
2Force
If conventional thrust reversers are used, then braking force is provided, but the weight of the system is higher and manufacturing cost is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying the geometric parameters of the cascade elements, specifically introducing raised patterns with defined heights, wavelengths, and coverage areas. These parameter modifications optimize the airflow interaction with the cascade elements, improving braking force generation efficiency. The optimized parameters allow for reduced material usage and lighter construction while maintaining or enhancing the required braking force.
3Power
If conventional thrust reversers are used, then reverse thrust is generated, but the noise restricts use to daytime only in some areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful noise generation mechanism into a beneficial effect by utilizing controlled turbulence and vortex formation created by the raised geometric patterns. These patterns are designed to manage airflow separation and reduce broadband noise while maintaining effective reverse thrust power, thereby converting a harmful characteristic into a beneficial performance enhancement.
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 optimized cascade elements improve reverse thrust efficiency by 13% and significantly reduce noise, while also offering weight savings of 15-35% compared to conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
the first, raised geometric pattern can be configured to increase mixing with a first, internal airflow and a second, external airflow to reduce noise and increase reverse thrust
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for providing reverse thrust is disclosed. The system can include one or more cascade elements. The one or more cascade elements can each include a plurality of vanes to redirect engine thrust in a forward direction relative to travel. Some, or all, of the vanes can include raised geometric patterns configured to increase the mixing of the airstreams between the reversed engine thrust and the airstream over the vehicle to reduce noise and improve reverse thrust. The angle, curvature, and geometric pattern of the vanes can be optimized for a particular cascade element, engine, location on the engine, row, or can be optimized individually to maximize reverse thrust and minimize noise.