Turbofan Thrust Vector Alignment via Exit Plane Reference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for aligning propulsion systems in aerospace vehicles often result in misalignment between the engine thrust vector and the aircraft's direction of travel, leading to performance reductions and increased fuel consumption due to reliance on the engine centerline axis alone.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine and align the turbofan engine's thrust vector feature with respect to the aircraft's reference axes, using a geometric element such as an exit plane defined by points at the rear of the engine, allowing for accurate positioning and orientation independent of the engine centerline axis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If engine alignment is based on engine centerline axis, then manufacturing and assembly are simplified, but thrust vector alignment with aircraft direction deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the alignment reference from the engine centerline by introducing a dedicated thrust vector feature (such as the exit plane) as the primary alignment reference. This segmentation allows the centerline to remain simple for manufacturing while the thrust vector feature ensures precise thrust alignment, resolving the contradiction between manufacturing ease and alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a thrust vector feature (exit plane, thrust centerline, or other geometric element) as an intermediary reference that mediates between the engine's mechanical centerline and the aircraft's reference axes. This intermediary enables accurate thrust vector alignment without complicating the basic engine mounting process.
2Ease of operation
If engine centerline axis is used for alignment, then assembly process is simpler, but fuel efficiency deteriorates due to misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing the thrust vector feature geometry during engine manufacturing or pre-assembly, before final installation on the aircraft. This allows the thrust vector to be pre-aligned with the desired direction, ensuring fuel efficiency is built into the engine design itself rather than requiring complex adjustments during assembly.
3Productivity
If traditional centerline alignment method is used, then design phase is faster, but performance deteriorates due to drag penalty
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the reference parameter from the engine centerline axis to a thrust vector feature (such as exit plane normal or thrust centerline). This parameter change maintains design efficiency while improving high-speed performance by ensuring thrust is properly aligned with the aircraft's direction of travel, eliminating drag penalties associated with misalignment.
Data Source
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AI summary
An aircraft (10) is described as including a reference axis extending along at least a portion of the aircraft, and a propulsion system having a thrust vector feature (43) defining generally a direction of thrust of the turbofan engine (18), the thrust vector feature (43) extending relative to a thrust vector axis, where the turbofan engine (18) is disposed on the aircraft with the thrust vector feature (43) oriented with respect to the reference axis of the aircraft.