Thrust Reverser Transcowl Temperature and Fluid Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Gas turbine engines face challenges in managing temperature and fluid accumulation after shutdown, leading to potential corrosion and increased component temperatures due to the absence of bypass cooling flow, necessitating effective venting and drainage systems.
Innovation Solution
A thrust reverser system with a transcowl that can move between stowed, deployed, and partially deployed positions, equipped with temperature and resistance sensors, and actuators controlled by a processor to manage temperature and fluid conditions, including vents and drains for hot gas venting and fluid drainage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If the thrust reverser system is in the stowed position during engine shutdown, then the engine structure remains compact and aerodynamic, but hot gases accumulate and cause excessive component temperatures
Solution Approach 1:
The thrust reverser system transitions from a static stowed position to a dynamic partially deployed position specifically for temperature management. The system can be positioned in intermediate states rather than only fully stowed or fully deployed, allowing it to adapt to different thermal conditions after engine shutdown.
Solution Approach 2:
The thrust reverser system is divided into functional segments: the transcowl that can be positioned independently to create venting paths, and the thrust reverser doors that redirect exhaust flow. This segmentation allows the transcowl to be positioned for thermal management while the thrust reverser doors remain closed for thrust retention.
2Reliability
If the thrust reverser system remains closed after engine shutdown, then aerodynamic efficiency is maintained, but hot gases and fluids accumulate causing corrosion and overheating
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary venting action immediately after engine shutdown by positioning the transcowl to create thermal relief paths. This preliminary action prevents hot gas accumulation and corrosion before they can cause damage, addressing the reliability concern proactively.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system monitors engine operating parameters and automatically activates the thermal management mode when shutdown conditions are detected. This feedback mechanism ensures the system responds appropriately to thermal conditions without requiring manual intervention.
3Temperature
If the thrust reverser system is deployed to vent hot gases, then component temperatures are reduced, but the system cannot drain accumulated fluids effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges two previously separate functions into a single integrated thermal management mode: hot gas venting through the transcowl positioning and fluid drainage through dedicated drains. Both functions operate simultaneously when the system is activated, addressing both thermal and corrosion protection needs together.
Solution Approach 2:
The partially deployed transcowl position serves multiple functions: it creates pathways for hot gas venting, enables fluid drainage through positioned drains, and maintains structural integrity. This multi-functionality allows a single system configuration to address multiple harmful effects simultaneously.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If drains are added to the thrust reverser system, then fluid drainage capability is improved, but system complexity and potential leakage points increase
Solution Approach 1:
The drainage system is designed to operate automatically using gravity and pressure differentials without requiring external power or complex control mechanisms. Fluids naturally drain through the positioned drains, and the system self-regulates based on accumulation conditions, minimizing the need for additional complexity.
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 system effectively reduces component temperatures and prevents corrosion by venting hot gases and draining fluids, ensuring safe and efficient operation of gas turbine engines post-shutdown.
Implementation Method 1
The body includes at least one counterweight at the first body end or the second body end. The body is positioned within the at least one opening based on an operating condition of the gas turbine engine.
Data Source
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AI summary
A thrust reverser system for a gas turbine engine includes a transcowl movable between a stowed position, a deployed position and a partially deployed position between the stowed position and the deployed position by at least one actuator. The system includes a temperature sensor and at least one resistance sensor. The thrust reverser system includes a controller, having a processor, that: outputs one or more control signals to move the transcowl to the partially deployed position; determines whether a temperature associated with the transcowl exceeds a temperature threshold; outputs one or more control signals to move the transcowl from the partially deployed position to the stowed position; determines whether the transcowl has encountered resistance; and based on the determination, outputs one or more control signals to stop a movement of the transcowl and outputs the one or more control signals to move the transcowl to the partially deployed position.