Single Actuator Control for Turbine Variable Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional turbomachines require separate control systems for each variable-geometry device, leading to increased weight, cost, and size, particularly problematic for small aircraft where space and resources are limited.
Innovation Solution
A control system utilizing a single actuator to control multiple variable-geometry devices, such as variable-pitch stator vanes and air-bleed valves, by optimizing the actuation range and incorporating a declutching device to minimize interference and mechanical stress, allowing for simultaneous control of multiple devices without the need for duplicate systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate control systems are used for each variable-geometry device, then each device can be controlled independently, but the weight, cost, and size of the control system increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions into a single integrated control system that manages both the variable-pitch stator vanes and air-bleed valves. This merging approach eliminates the need for separate control systems for each device, reducing overall weight, cost, and complexity while maintaining the ability to control each device independently through a unified control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed with multi-functionality to handle different variable-geometry devices using a single actuator. The actuator can selectively control either the stator vanes or the air-bleed valves based on operational requirements, providing universal control capability across multiple devices without requiring duplicate control systems.
2Weight of moving object
If a single actuator controls multiple variable-geometry devices, then weight and cost are reduced, but control complexity and potential interference between devices increase
Solution Approach 1:
The control system incorporates dynamic switching capabilities that allow the single actuator to adaptively control different devices based on real-time operational conditions. The system can dynamically allocate the actuator's output to control either the stator vanes or air-bleed valves as needed, managing complexity through intelligent control logic rather than mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system uses an intermediary control mechanism that mediates between the single actuator and multiple variable-geometry devices. This intermediary layer distributes and coordinates control signals appropriately, preventing direct interference between devices while managing the complexity of coordinating multiple functions through one actuator.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the actuator controls both stator vanes and air-bleed valves across its full range, then one device may be interfered with when controlling the other
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator's control range is segmented into distinct operational zones, with specific ranges allocated for controlling stator vanes and other devices. This segmentation ensures that when the actuator operates within a designated range for one device, it does not inadvertently interfere with the control of other devices, maintaining reliability while preserving adaptability across the full actuator range.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for controlling at least two variable-geometry devices of a turbomachine, and a turbomachine including such a control system, the system including an actuator that actuates both devices; one of the devices including at least one stage of variable-pitch stator vanes, and the other device being an air-bleed valve for a turbomachine body. The system is configured to control progression opening of the vane stage and progressive closing of the air-bleed valve as an actuation parameter of the actuator increases. As a result, the control system serves advantageously to control two devices using a single control system.