Turbine Igniter Swirler Design for Cold Start Flame Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ignition systems in turbine engines, particularly spark igniters, struggle to reliably ignite fuel in cold start conditions and with heavy primary fuels, leading to inefficiencies and potential combustion failures.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an igniter system with radial and axial air swirlers to create a recirculation zone in an auxiliary combustion chamber, combined with additional fuel injection at the outlet, enhances turbulence and flame stability, allowing for reliable ignition and re-light capability across various operating conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a microprocessor-based electronic control system is used to precisely control ignition timing, then ignition timing precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces microprocessor-based electronic control with a mechanical cam-driven timing advance mechanism. The cam profile mechanically adjusts ignition timing based on engine operating conditions (RPM and load), eliminating the need for complex electronic sensors, processors, and actuators while achieving sufficient timing precision for the application.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical timing advance mechanism is self-regulating based on engine operating conditions. The cam follower automatically responds to changes in RPM and load, adjusting ignition timing without requiring external electronic control signals, feedback sensors, or power consumption, thereby simplifying the overall control system.
2Measurement precision
If a microprocessor-based electronic control system is used to precisely control ignition timing, then ignition timing precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive electronic components (microprocessors, sensors, actuators, PCBs) with a simple mechanical cam mechanism. This substitution dramatically reduces part count, assembly complexity, and manufacturing cost while providing adequate ignition timing control for the intended application.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical cam mechanism uses simple, inexpensive components that can be manufactured at low cost. The cam profile can be produced through conventional machining or molding processes, and the entire timing advance mechanism can be manufactured for a fraction of the cost of electronic control systems.
3Device complexity
If conventional ignition systems are used in wet environments, then device simplicity is maintained, but reliability decreases due to corrosion and electrical interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical ignition components (electronic control units, wiring harnesses, sensors) with a mechanical timing advance mechanism. This eliminates susceptibility to corrosion, electrical interference, and moisture-related failures while maintaining operational simplicity. The mechanical components are inherently more resistant to harsh environmental conditions.
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 provides efficient and reliable ignition, improves cold combustor light-off performance, and reduces exhaust smoke by promoting near stoichiometric combustion and stable flame propagation in the primary combustor chamber.
Implementation Method 1
a cam mechanism which advances an ignition timing of the ignition coil primary circuit breaker point
Implementation Method 2
ignition coil primary circuit breaker point
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3
AI summary
The subject matter of this specification can be embodied in, among other things, a method that includes igniting an igniter stage configured to ignite combustion in a turbine combustor assembly, receiving pressure signals from a pressure sensor configured to sense pressure in the turbine combustor assembly, and controlling operation of the igniter stage based on the received pressure signals.