Turbine Engine Parameter Estimation with Redundancy

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing turbine engine control systems rely on indirect measurements for un-measurable parameters like thrust and stall margin, leading to inaccurate estimates and the use of large design margins, which reduce engine performance and condition.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that includes a primary model for estimating operating parameters using sensor inputs and a redundancy system to detect and compensate for anomalies, ensuring accurate calculation of un-measurable parameters such as thrust and stall margin.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If indirect measurements are used to estimate un-measurable parameters, then the system can determine parameters like thrust and stall margin, but the estimation accuracy is poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveestimation accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a redundancy system as an intermediary between the primary estimation model and the final parameter determination. This redundancy system includes backup models and cross-validation mechanisms that verify the accuracy of estimates from the primary model, thereby improving measurement precision without requiring complete system redesign

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates backup copies of the primary estimation model (redundant models) that use different algorithms or data sources to estimate the same un-measurable parameters. By comparing multiple copies of estimation models, the system improves accuracy through cross-validation while managing complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Reliability

If large design margins are used to compensate for inaccurate estimates, then reliability is improved, but engine performance and condition deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational reliabilityVSAvoidengine performance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the redundancy system continuously monitors the accuracy of parameter estimates and provides feedback to adjust the primary model's operation. This closed-loop approach allows the system to maintain high reliability through anomaly detection while optimizing engine performance by reducing unnecessary design margins when estimates are accurate

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent prepares backup estimation models and anomaly detection mechanisms in advance (beforehand cushioning) to handle potential estimation failures. This proactive approach ensures reliability is maintained through pre-prepared contingencies rather than requiring large performance-penalty design margins

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS7861578B2Methods and systems for estimating operating parameters of an engine
Publication Date: 2011.01.04 GENERAL ELECTRIC CO
  • US7861578B2 patent drawing
  • US7861578B2 patent drawing
  • US7861578B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for estimating an operating parameter of a turbine engine is provided. The method includes receiving at least one sensor input, calculating the operating parameter using at least the one sensor input, and determining whether an anomaly is present in the calculated operating parameter using a redundancy system. An estimated operating parameter is output.