Integrated Turbine Probe for Tip Clearance and Arrival Timing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measurement systems for gas turbine engine rotors are limited in their ability to measure multiple operational parameters effectively.
Innovation Solution
A measurement system comprising a probe housing with integrated capacitance and optical probes, allowing for simultaneous measurement of blade tip clearance and blade time of arrival, utilizing a field sensor and optical fiber for precise data acquisition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If separate measurement systems are used for different operational parameters, then each parameter can be measured with dedicated precision, but the overall system complexity increases and multiple probes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines a field probe and optical probe into a single integrated measurement system housed within a common probe housing. The field sensor and optical fiber are positioned to measure different operational parameters (blade tip clearance and blade time of arrival) simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate probes and reducing system complexity while maintaining measurement precision for each parameter.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated probe housing serves multiple functions by accommodating both field and optical probes, allowing the single probe assembly to measure multiple operational parameters including blade tip clearance, blade time of arrival, and other rotor characteristics. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate measurement systems needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate probes are used to measure different parameters, then measurement versatility is improved, but the number of components and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges field and optical probes into a single integrated measurement system within one probe housing, reducing the number of separate components and assembly steps while maintaining the ability to measure multiple operational parameters including blade tip clearance and blade time of arrival.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated probe assembly provides universal measurement capability by incorporating both field and optical sensing technologies, enabling the single probe to perform multiple measurement functions that would traditionally require separate specialized probes.
3Volume of moving object
If field sensor and optical probe are integrated in the same housing, then space efficiency is improved, but interference between measurement fields may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement functions by positioning the field sensor and optical fiber in distinct spatial zones within the probe housing. The field sensor is disposed in a first region while the optical fiber is positioned in a second region, with careful attention to maintaining adequate separation to prevent electromagnetic interference between the field probe and optical components while still allowing both to measure operational parameters of the rotor.
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
Enhances measurement accuracy and redundancy by enabling simultaneous and precise monitoring of multiple operational parameters, including blade tip clearance and time of arrival, while maintaining probe integrity and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
The optical probe includes an optical fiber extending through the channel
Implementation Method 2
Such systems include capacitance measurement systems
Implementation Method 3
The field probe includes a field sensor disposed in the cavity
Data Source
AI summary
A measurement system is provided that includes a probe housing, a field probe and an optical probe. The probe housing includes a sidewall, a cavity and a channel. The sidewall extends circumferentially around and axially along the cavity. The channel is radially outboard of the cavity and extends axially in the sidewall. The field probe includes a field sensor disposed in the cavity. The field sensor forms a sensor face. The optical probe is configured with an optical line of sight through the channel into a volume adjacent the sensor face.