Variable Area Bypass Mixer for Gas Turbine Engine
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas turbine engines with bypass flow systems face limitations in efficiently controlling the bypass ratio, which affects engine performance and specific fuel consumption, particularly in varying operational modes.
Innovation Solution
A variable area bypass mixer is introduced, featuring a translatable sled and actuators that adjust the bypass flow area exposed to the nozzle, allowing for dynamic control of the bypass ratio by translating between maximum and minimum flow areas, enabling optimal bypass flow and core flow management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed bypass area is used in existing gas turbine engines, then the engine structure is simple, but the bypass ratio cannot be dynamically controlled, leading to suboptimal performance in varying operational modes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by introducing a variable area bypass mixer with a translatable sled that can dynamically adjust the bypass flow area. The sled moves between multiple positions (first, second, third positions) to vary the bypass area exposed to the nozzle, enabling dynamic control of the bypass ratio according to different operational modes. This transforms the fixed bypass structure into a dynamic, adjustable system that adapts to varying engine performance requirements.
2Quantity of substance
If the bypass flow area is increased to improve bypass flow, then the bypass ratio increases, but the structural complexity and control mechanism complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Segmentation principle by dividing the bypass mixer into distinct functional segments: the sled (with inner and outer surfaces forming flow boundaries), the actuators (first and second actuators for position control), and the nozzle. This segmentation allows independent control of different aspects of bypass flow management. The sled can be positioned at discrete locations to provide different bypass areas, while the actuators independently control the sled position, separating the flow control function from the structural support function.
3Productivity
If precise control of bypass ratio is achieved through variable area bypass mixer, then engine performance and fuel consumption are improved, but the manufacturing complexity and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Universality principle by designing the sled to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it forms the inner surface of the bypass mixer, provides structural support for the actuators, defines the variable bypass flow area through its position, and acts as a mounting surface for the control system. The first and second actuators also serve dual purposes by both moving the sled and providing positional feedback. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of separate components needed, simplifying manufacturing despite the added control capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
One embodiment of the present invention is a gas turbine engine with a bypass mixer. Other embodiments include apparatuses, systems, devices, hardware, methods, and combinations for gas turbine engines and bypass mixers. Further embodiments, forms, features, aspects, benefits, and advantages of the present application will become apparent from the description and figures provided herewith.