Variable Geometry Mechanism Control via Power-to-Speed Ratio

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional temperature sensors in engines are slow to react to changes in temperature, making it challenging to control variable geometry mechanisms effectively during rapid power transitions.

Innovation Solution

A method that generates a temperature-independent position control signal for variable geometry mechanisms based on a power-to-speed ratio, which is used to control the engine, allowing for faster response times without relying on temperature sensors.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional temperature sensors are used to control variable geometry mechanisms, then the control is based on accurate temperature measurement, but the response time is slow due to sensor reaction delay

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetemperature measurement accuracyVSAvoidresponse time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the temperature-dependent control function from the temperature sensor and implements it through a temperature-independent control signal generated by the engine controller using engine parameters (RPM, manifold pressure, throttle position). This eliminates the slow temperature sensor response while maintaining the necessary temperature-based control logic.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary control signal that translates engine operating parameters into equivalent temperature-based control commands for the variable geometry mechanism. This intermediary signal allows the system to respond immediately to engine conditions without waiting for temperature sensor feedback.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If temperature-based control signals are used for variable geometry mechanisms, then the control reflects actual thermal conditions, but the control response is delayed during rapid power transitions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol accuracyVSAvoidcontrol response speed
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSSpeed

Solution Approach 1:

The patent calculates the temperature-independent control signal in advance based on current engine operating parameters before temperature changes occur. By using real-time engine data (RPM, manifold pressure, throttle position), the system proactively adjusts the variable geometry mechanism to anticipate temperature changes, eliminating response delay while maintaining control accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Device complexity

If traditional temperature sensor control is used, then the control system is simple in design, but the engine response time during power transitions is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system complexityVSAvoidengine response time
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the engine controller universal by adding temperature-independent control signal generation capabilities to its existing functions. The same controller that manages fuel injection and ignition now also generates VGM control signals based on engine parameters, eliminating the need for separate temperature sensor hardware while improving response time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11047314B2Systems and methods for control of engine variable geometry mechanism
Publication Date: 2021.06.29 PRATT & WHITNEY CANADA CORP
  • US11047314B2 patent drawing
  • US11047314B2 patent drawing
  • US11047314B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and systems for controlling an engine having a variable geometry mechanism are described. An output power of the engine is determined. A speed of the engine is determined. A temperature-independent position control signal for the variable geometry mechanism is generated based on a power-to-speed ratio, the power-to-speed ratio obtained by dividing the output power by the speed. The position control signal is output to a controller of the engine to control the variable geometry mechanism.