18455137. Object Direction Mechanism for Turbofan Engine simplified abstract (GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY)
Contents
Object Direction Mechanism for Turbofan Engine
Organization Name
Inventor(s)
Arthur William Sibbach of Boxford MA (US)
Brandon Wayne Miller of Liberty Township OH (US)
Object Direction Mechanism for Turbofan Engine - A simplified explanation of the abstract
This abstract first appeared for US patent application 18455137 titled 'Object Direction Mechanism for Turbofan Engine
Simplified Explanation: The patent application describes a turbofan engine with a unique inlet pre-swirl feature to direct incoming objects away from the core air flowpath.
Key Features and Innovation:
- Turbofan engine with a fan, turbomachine, and nacelle.
- Inlet pre-swirl feature attached to the nacelle.
- Directs incoming objects towards the outer portion of the engine.
- Prevents objects from interfering with the core air flowpath.
- Enhances safety and efficiency of the engine.
Potential Applications: This technology can be applied in commercial aircraft engines, military aircraft engines, and other propulsion systems where foreign object damage prevention is crucial.
Problems Solved: The technology addresses the issue of foreign object damage to the core air flowpath of turbofan engines, which can lead to engine failure and safety hazards.
Benefits:
- Improved safety by preventing foreign object damage.
- Enhanced engine efficiency and performance.
- Reduced maintenance costs due to fewer instances of damage.
Commercial Applications: The technology can be utilized in commercial aviation, military aviation, and other industries requiring high-performance propulsion systems with enhanced safety features.
Prior Art: Readers can explore prior patents related to inlet pre-swirl features in turbofan engines to understand the evolution of this technology and potential improvements.
Frequently Updated Research: Stay informed about advancements in turbofan engine technology, particularly in the field of foreign object damage prevention and safety enhancements.
Questions about Turbofan Engine Inlet Pre-Swirl Feature: 1. How does the inlet pre-swirl feature contribute to the safety of turbofan engines? 2. What are the potential challenges in implementing and maintaining the inlet pre-swirl feature in turbofan engines?
Original Abstract Submitted
A turbofan engine is provided. The turbofan engine includes a fan comprising a plurality of fan blades; a turbomachine operably coupled to the fan for driving the fan, the turbomachine comprising a compressor section, a combustion section, and a turbine section in serial flow order and together defining a core air flowpath; a nacelle surrounding and at least partially enclosing the fan; an inlet pre-swirl feature located upstream of the plurality of fan blades, the inlet pre-swirl feature attached to or integrated into the nacelle; and a means for directing incoming objects towards an outer portion of the turbofan engine in communication with the inlet pre-swirl feature.
