Turbojet Current Generator Mounted on Fixed Cowl
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for generating electrical power in aeronautical turbojet engines, such as tapping mechanical power from the high-pressure spool, can adversely affect engine operability and are difficult to maintain due to bulky and heavy components, as well as complex routing of electrical current.
Innovation Solution
A twin-spool gas turbine turbojet with a current generator positioned upstream of the fan, connected to the low-pressure rotor shaft, which converts mechanical power into electrical power using a stator and rotor element mounted on a fixed cowl element with radial retaining arms, allowing for easy access and minimal disassembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If mechanical power is taken from the high-pressure spool to generate electrical power, then electrical power generation is achieved, but engine operability is adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The generator is extracted from the high-pressure spool and relocated to the low-pressure spool area. This separation allows electrical power generation to occur without interfering with the high-pressure spool's critical operations, thereby maintaining engine operability while achieving the desired electrical power output.
Solution Approach 2:
The power generation system is segmented into independent components mounted on the low-pressure spool rather than being integrated into the high-pressure spool. This segmentation allows the generator to operate independently without affecting the high-pressure spool's performance and reliability.
2Power
If a generator is mounted in the compression casing, then electrical power can be generated, but the generator is difficult to access for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The generator is extracted from the confined compression casing and relocated to the more accessible low-pressure spool area. This relocation maintains the power generation function while significantly improving accessibility for maintenance and replacement operations.
3Power
If the generator is positioned in the compression casing, then it can convert mechanical power to electrical power, but substantial structural modifications are required
Solution Approach 1:
The low-pressure spool is designed to serve multiple functions: driving the fan and simultaneously supporting the generator mounting. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for substantial structural modifications while enabling power generation, as the existing low-pressure spool infrastructure is utilized for both purposes.
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
This solution reduces the need for cooling and mass of the generator, simplifies maintenance, and enables quick replacement without substantial structural modifications, improving engine operability and reducing assembly complexity.
Implementation Method 1
The rotational movement of the rotor elements induces a current in the stator element, which current is transmitted to the various pieces of equipment that require power.
Data Source
AI summary
A twin-spool gas turbine turbojet comprising a high-pressure rotor; a low-pressure rotor; a low-pressure rotor shaft connected to a fan housed in a fan casing; and a fixed cowl element centered on the axis of the engine, upstream of the fan, on which there is mounted an electric current generator designed to take mechanical power off the low-pressure rotor shaft and convert it into electrical power.