Turbo-machine Unstable Operation Detection Using Minimal Sensors
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods struggle to accurately and efficiently detect the occurrence of unstable operations in turbo-machines, such as flutter, surge, and stall, which can lead to serious accidents, and require extensive sensor networks and complex analysis.
Innovation Solution
An observation apparatus with highly time-responsive sensors that calculate and detect unstable operations using indices like sample entropy, recurrence plots, and permutation entropy, allowing for real-time determination and prevention of these events with a minimal number of sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a minimal number of sensors are used, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection functions (pressure fluctuation detection, vibration detection, temperature detection) into a single integrated observation apparatus that uses minimal sensors. The computing unit integrates data from these sensors and applies complex system theory to detect unstable operations, thereby reducing the overall number of sensors needed while maintaining high detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the detection approach by changing from direct measurement of multiple parameters to measuring a minimal set of parameters (pressure, vibration, temperature) and then computing unstable operation indicators through mathematical transformations. The computing unit calculates phase space trajectories and attractors from these minimal sensor inputs, achieving precise detection without requiring extensive sensor networks.
2Reliability
If real-time detection of unstable operations is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The observation apparatus is designed to autonomously detect unstable operations without requiring complex external analysis systems. The computing unit automatically processes sensor data, calculates phase space trajectories, determines attractors, and computes translation errors in real-time. This self-service capability enables reliable real-time detection while keeping the system relatively simple by eliminating the need for separate complex analysis infrastructure.
3Strength
If blade thickness is increased for safety design, then strength is improved, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary detection of unstable operation signs before they develop into full-scale unstable operations. By detecting early signs through the observation apparatus and taking preventive action (adjusting operating parameters), the system avoids the need for overly conservative blade designs. This allows blades to be optimized for performance rather than excessive strength, improving productivity while maintaining safety through real-time monitoring and prevention.
Data Source
AI summary
[Object] To observe the sign or occurrence of an unstable operation of a turbo-machine.[Solving Means] An observation apparatus 1 includes: a detection unit 10 including one or two or more sensors 11, 12 that are disposed in a turbo-machine 2, are highly time responsive, and observe unsteady fluctuations of the turbo-machine 2; a computation unit 20 that output signals from the one or two or more sensors 11, 12 every moment, stores time series data for a predetermined period, and calculates in real time a parameter for detecting an unstable operation of the turbo-machine; and a determination unit 30 that compares the parameter for detecting the unstable operation with a predetermined threshold and outputs in real time a determination result of a sign or occurrence of the unstable operation.