Turbine Vane Angle Measurement in Hot Environments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional angle measurement sensors are ineffective in hot environments, such as those found in aircraft turbines, where precise vane angle measurements are crucial for efficient operation but are hindered by high temperatures and limited spacing.
Innovation Solution
Indirect measurement sensors, like microwave sensors, convert linear distance measurements from a screw-type turbine vane spindle into angular values using a processing unit and communication system, allowing for precise vane angle determination in high-temperature environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional angle measurement sensors are used in turbine environments, then direct angular measurement is achieved, but the sensors cannot operate due to high temperatures and limited spacing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanical linkage system consisting of a spindle with threaded screw and nut mechanism that connects the vane element to the sensor element. This intermediary converts the angular position of the vane into linear displacement of the sensor, allowing indirect measurement without exposing the sensor to the harsh hot environment where the vane operates
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the direct mechanical angle sensor with an indirect measurement system using microwave/radio frequency signals. The sensor element measures linear distance through electromagnetic waves rather than direct mechanical contact, eliminating the need for the sensor to withstand high temperatures and enabling reliable operation in the turbine environment
2Reliability
If indirect measurement sensors are used to measure linear distance, then sensor operation in hot environment is enabled, but the measurement system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor element serves multiple functions: it measures linear distance along the waveguide, converts this to angular values through processing, and communicates the pivot angle data. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture despite using indirect measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from direct angular displacement to linear distance measurement. By measuring linear distance along the waveguide and mathematically converting it to angular values, the system achieves reliable operation in hot environments while maintaining measurement accuracy through parameter transformation
3Measurement precision
If precise vane angle measurement is achieved through indirect measurement, then turbine performance optimization is enabled, but measurement time and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical angle sensing with electromagnetic wave-based linear distance measurement. This substitution enables precise measurement through signal processing rather than mechanical gear systems, reducing moving parts and potential failure points while maintaining accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a mathematical model (copy) of the angular relationship based on linear distance measurements. By establishing the geometric relationship between linear displacement along the waveguide and angular position of the vane, the system can calculate angular values from simpler linear measurements, achieving precision without direct angular sensing
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
Enables accurate and precise measurement of turbine vane angles, improving turbine efficiency and performance by allowing for necessary adjustments in challenging high-temperature conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the sensor element is configured to electro-magnetically, optically, capacitatively or mechanically sense the linear distance
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A turbine (10) includes an outer duct (20), a turbine casing (30) formed to define a turbine interior (34), the turbine casing (30) being disposed within the outer duct (20) to define an annulus (60), a vane element (40) pivotably coupled to the turbine casing (30) via a spindle (45) to extend spanwise into the turbine interior (34) and a sensor element (50) supportively coupled to the outer duct (20) and configured to sense a characteristic of the spindle (45) within the annulus (60) from which a pivot angle of the vane element (40) is derivable.