Blended Wing Aircraft Thrust Reverser Segmentation for Engine Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional aircraft designs face challenges in providing efficient thrust reversal and cargo utilization, particularly in blended wing configurations where engines are mounted on the body, which complicates thrust reverse mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A blended wing aircraft design incorporating a thrust reverser assembly with a deployable structure that extends less than 360 degrees around the engine outlet, integrated with the outer nacelle, allowing for seamless transition between stowed and deployed positions to redirect exhaust airflow for reverse thrust.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If engines are mounted on the body in a blended wing configuration, then aerodynamic efficiency is improved, but thrust reversal mechanism becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The thrust reverser assembly is segmented into multiple independent components: a first deployable structure (clamshell door) and a second deployable structure (cascade assembly with blocker doors). This segmentation allows each component to perform a specific function in the thrust reversal process, making the overall mechanism more manageable and less complex despite the integrated mounting configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The thrust reverser assembly employs dynamic deployable structures that can transition between retracted and deployed positions. The clamshell door and cascade assembly with blocker doors can be dynamically positioned based on flight requirements, enabling effective thrust reversal while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency during normal flight operations.
2Strength
If a traditional fuselage and wing configuration is used, then structural integrity is maintained, but cargo utilization efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The aircraft design merges the fuselage and wings into a blended wing configuration where the fuselage contributes to lift generation. This integration creates additional cargo space while maintaining structural integrity through the unified design, improving cargo utilization efficiency without compromising strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The blended wing configuration utilizes the vertical dimension by mounting engines on the top side of the fuselage, creating additional cargo volume in the fuselage while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. This dimensional reconfiguration optimizes space utilization without sacrificing structural strength.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If engines are mounted on the top side of the body, then noise management is improved, but thrust reverser design becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The thrust reverser assembly is divided into distinct functional segments: a first deployable structure for initial thrust reversal and a second deployable structure (cascade assembly) for completing the reversal process. This segmentation enables effective thrust reversal despite the engines being mounted on the top side of the fuselage, where noise management is critical.
Solution Approach 2:
The cascade assembly with blocker doors acts as an intermediary mechanism between the engine exhaust and the surrounding environment. It mediates the thrust reversal process by redirecting exhaust flow while managing noise propagation, allowing engines to be mounted on the top side of the fuselage for noise reduction.
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 design enables effective thrust reversal and improved aerodynamic efficiency by managing engine noise and increasing cargo space, while maintaining structural integrity and reducing mechanical complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a thrust reverser assembly with a deployable structure that extends less than 360 degrees around the engine outlet, integrated with the outer nacelle, allowing for seamless transition between stowed and deployed positions to redirect exhaust airflow for reverse thrust
Data Source
AI summary
A blended wing aircraft is provided, including a body having a fuselage and a pair of wings extending outward from the fuselage; and an aircraft engine defining an outlet and including a thrust reverser assembly, the thrust reverser assembly including a deployable structure extending less than 360 degrees around the outlet.