Showing papers on "Propulsion published in 1970"

Constant power control system for gas turbine

Abstract: A gas turbine control system has a plurality of closed loop controls each responsive to a different operating condition and an additional loop control which sets the fuel control signal in accordance with a desired power setting. A gating device allows only one of the fuel control signals generated by each loop control to control the fuel flow servo means, that signal being the one calling for the smallest fuel flow. A cubic function generator is positioned in circuit with the propulsion lever and modifies the desired power signal to produce a ship speed which is linear with respect to the propulsion lever position. A feedback signal indicative of actual fuel flow is also in circuit with the propulsion lever. A first propeller pitch control is responsive to the propulsion lever position and brings the pitch from zero to full as the power setting is concurrently increased. A second propeller pitch control is responsive to an actual shaft speed signal and is operative to hold the shaft speed relatively constant by varying pitch. There are three modes of operation, each having a certain minimum power level and other modifications so as to improve vessel-maneuvering characteristics.

Electricl automobile transportation system

Abstract: An electrically powered automotive transit system including an automotive vehicle having electrical propulsion means and an electrical power system for supplying electrical energy to the vehicle while on the road. The power system embodies exposed electrified conductors on the road and electrical current collectors on the vehicle for contacting the road conductors to effect transmission of electrical energy from the conductors to the vehicle propulsions means. The electrical energy thus supplied to the vehicle may be utilized periodically to charge a battery in the vehicle which powers the vehicle propulsion motor during normal cruising operation continuously or to power the motor directly during cruising operation.

Variable jet propulsion nozzle

Abstract: An exhaust duct and variable convergent-divergent propulsion nozzle for a supersonic turbofan engine. The nozzle includes a ring of leaves providing a convergent nozzle portion and a second ring of leaves downstream of the first defining a divergent nozzle portion. The downstream end of the divergent nozzle portion is connected to a ring of leaves defining a fairing around the nozzle. The fairing and divergent leaves are free to float radially at their downstream ends. The converging nozzle leaves and the forward end of the diverging nozzle leaves are actuated by a common linkage so as to coordinate the movement of the two and permit the floating movement of the downstream end of the nozzle. The structure, including the exhaust duct wall, is characterized by lightweight construction and arrangements for cooling the structure exposed to hot gas. Outward movement of the fairing leaves is limited by a ring of swinging links which includes stop means limiting their extending motion to a degree short of straightening the joints.

The Propulsion Committee: final report and recommendations to the 25th ITTC

Abstract: Details the investigation and findings of the 25th ITTC Propulsion Committee over the period 2005-2008. Tasks were as follows: 1. Update the state-of-the-art for propulsion systems emphasizing developments since the 2005 ITTC conference. 2. Review the following ITTC recommended procedures: • 7.5-01-02-01: Terminology and Nomenclature of Propeller Geometry (Harmonize with ISO standard) • 7.5-02-03-01.1: Propulsion Test • 7.5-02-03-02.1: Propeller Open Water Test • 7.5-02-03-02.3: Guide for Use of LDV • 7.5-02-05-02: High Speed Marine Vehicles Propulsion Test. 3. Critically review examples of validation of prediction techniques. Identify and specify requirements for new benchmark data. 4. Review the development and progress in unconventional propulsors such as tip-rake, transcavitating and composite propellers (hydroelasticity and cavitation erosion susceptibility taken into account). 5. Review propulsion issues in shallow water and formulate recommendations for research. 6. Review the methods for predicting the performance of secondary thrusters and compare with operational experience. 7. Finalise the benchmark tests for waterjets and analysis of the data.

Liquid propulsion device

Abstract: A propulsion mechanism, such as a pump, for propelling liquids first radially and then axially through the mechanism at high pressure, the mechanism having within a cylindrical housing a rotor balanced to minimize radial and axial forces on the rotor whereby bearings are not required for the rotor.

Spacecraft for deploying multiple objects

Abstract: A spacecraft for inserting multiple objects into selected space flight paths in selected attitudes relative to the flight paths by deploying the objects, either passively or actively, from extendable object mounting platforms gimballed on one end of the vehicle body. During launch the platforms are retracted to fit within the launch vehicle shroud. After separation of the spacecraft from the booster in space, the platforms are extended to object deployment positions and the spacecraft is oriented by thrusters in a flight attitude wherein the thrust vector of a main propulsion engine on the vehicle body is aligned with the local range insensitive axis. Object deployment is accomplished by utilizing the main engine to propel the spacecraft along the range insensitive axis across the selected flight paths and by tilting the mounting platforms at each deployment point to orient the object to be deployed in the proper deployment attitude relative to the selected flight path.

Controllable solid propulsion system

Abstract: A controllable solid propulsion system for aero-space vehicles, comprising a fuel in gel form contained in a collapsible bellows within a pressurizable fuel tank of small length-to-diameter ratio, means to pressurize the fuel tank and to force the fuel gel into the thrust chamber of a rocket motor containing a packed bed of granulated solid oxidizer. Reaction of the fuel gel and oxidizer provides propulsive reaction gases. The gel may be catalytically decomposed to gaseous reaction products for reaction with the oxidizer to provide increased thrust.

Integrated propulsion system

Abstract: A thrust vectoring, thrust reversing and lift augmentation system is provided for jet aircraft in a compact package to optimize the several controlled flight regimes of the aircraft. Thus, the pilot can selectively direct and control the exhaust gases of each engine to give maximum forward thrust, boundary layer control and/or jet flap lift augmentation or he can select some combination of vectored thrust with lift augmentation. Additionally, when desired a thrust reversing position can be selected to minimize ground roll after landing of the aircraft.

Mass transportation system

Abstract: A high speed mass transportation system, in which a train unit rides in an arcuately concave, narrow guideway and is aerodynamically supported on airfoils conforming to the arcuate form of the guideway. The center mass of the vehicle is below the center of radius of the guideway, which provides a self-stabilizing and automatic banking action in high speed turns, so that passengers are not subjected to lateral accelerations. The airfoils are spaced several inches above the guideway at cruising speed, so that the surface finish of the guideway is not unduly critical and cost is minimized. Retractable wheels are provided for supporting the train unit at low speeds and on flat surfaces. Propulsion may be by means of direct thrust, such as a propeller, or by electrical drive means, such as a linear induction motor.

Remotely steerable electric outboard motor

Abstract: A PROPULSION UNIT FOR A BOAT IS DISCLOSED WHICH INCLUDES A SUBMERSIBLE ELECTRIC PROPULSION UNIT CONNECTED TO A VERTICALLY DISPOSED TUBULAR SHAFT WHICH IS ROTATABLY JOURNALED IN A SUPPORT THAT IS ATTACHABLE TO A BOAT. A FIRST CHAIN SPROCKET IS CONNECTED TO THE END OF THE SHAFT AND A SECOND CHAIN SPROCKET IS JOURNALED ON THE SUPPORT. A PUSH-PULL CABLE IS ATTACHED TO ONE REACH OF AN ENDLESS CHAIN THAT IS COUPLED AROUND THE SPROCKETS. THE CABLE IS RECIPROCATED BY A REMOTELY LOCATED ACTUATING UNIT.

Rotary wing aircraft lift and propulsion method and systems

Abstract: A rotary wing aircraft lift and propulsion method and system in which burner thruster units mounted on the lift-producing rotor at a position spaced radially from the axis of the rotor generate moments to turn the rotor about its axis. An air compressor is driven by the rotor through a speed increasing drive and pumps air at a pressure exceeding atmospheric through ducts in the rotor extending out to the respective burner thruster units while fuel is shock in them to produce jets reflecting combustion gases generating thrust to turn the rotor about its axis. In addition to the lift-producing rotor, a propeller serves to drive the aircraft forward or backward, and the power for driving this propeller is derived from the rotation of the rotor itself. To control forward or backward motion of the craft, the propeller pitch is varied, and also it may be disengaged by use of a clutch. There is a forward-motion steering rudder and a downwash deflector rudder which are both operable by the same control for counteracting the moderate rotor torque exerted on the aircraft body and for steering the craft.

Review of propulsion-induced effects on aerodynamics of jet V/STOL aircraft

Abstract: Propulsion device-induced effects on V/STOL aircraft aerodynamics in hover and transition flight

Solar electric propulsion system technology

Abstract: Achievements in the solar electric propulsion system technology program (SEPST 3) are reported and certain propulsion system-spacecraft interaction problems are discussed. The basic solar electric propulsion system concept and elements are reviewed. Hardware is discussed only briefly, relying on detailed fabrication or assembly descriptions reported elsewhere. Emphasis is placed on recent performance data, which are presented to show the relationship between spacecraft requirements and present technology.

Measurements of the radiated noise from sailplanes

Abstract: : The noise associated with a flight vehicle is generated by two distinct type sources: (1) the propulsion system and (2) the aerodynamic noise associated with movement of the vehicle through the atmosphere. The minimum noise will be radiated when the propulsion noise is eliminated. Measurements were taken of the noise radiated from three sailplanes in order to define the aerodynamic noise and to determine its relation to aircraft size and velocity. The report presents the results obtained from one microphone and relates the overall sound pressure level (SPL) to aircraft parameters.

Fluid controls for engine and forward-reverse transmission

Abstract: This invention relates to control mechanism for propulsion systems wherein single lever control of clutch and engine governor is provided. More specifically, this invention relates to such control mechanism wherein the sequence of application of clutch, engine governor and shaft brake actuation signals is controlled in an automatic, predetermined manner to reduce engine, clutch and gear train wear. A propulsion control system is also provided with a master control which is connected with a replaceable air drive unit either mechanically or pneumatically. The air drive unit is premanufactured to desired specifications for performing operational functions, including automatic neutral delays between forward and reverse directional modes and speed interrupt delays, so that malfunction of one component of the air drive unit may be corrected by replacing the entire unit.

Propulsion and control system for motorboat

Abstract: A combination motor boat propulsion and steering control system is shown which is particularly adapted to planing hull, high speed boats. The invented combination will eliminate the need for a rudder in such craft by providing dual variable pitch propellers, differentially pitch controlled for steering, and provides for water contact only up to the hubs of counter-rotating propellers, thereby minimizing drag. Forward-reverse control and optimized speed control (while maintaining high power transfer efficiency) are effected by superimposed separate control of propeller pitches together in the same sense.

Buoyant powered swimming device

Abstract: A buoyant device contoured on its upper surface to support the body of the user while permitting freedom of motion of the arms and legs. The lower side of the device is hydrodynamically streamlined taking into account the location of one or more propulsion devices located beneath the lower surfaces. Energy storage and control means are provided interior of the device and specially contoured propeller shrouds enhance efficiency.

A review of lift fan propulsion systems for civil VTOL transports

Abstract: Low pressure ratio lift fan propulsion system for intercity VTOL transports, considering thrust, safety, noise, weight, components, speed, turbine and transmission

Outboard drive unit for boats

Abstract: An outboard propulsion drive unit for a boat with an inboard engine utilizes a hydraulic pump on the engine hydraulically connected with a universal swivel mounting which receives an outboard propulsion unit to provide steering about a generally vertical axis and up-tilt motion about a transverse horizontal axis. The swivel mounting has a pair of hydraulic conduits extending through the bearing journals of both axes. The propulsion unit has a hydraulic motor geared to drive the propeller. A reservoir and a charging pump are mounted in the propulsion unit, the latter driven by the hydraulic motor.

Fluid-structure interactions of anisotropic thin composite materials for application to sail aerodynamics of a yacht in waves

Abstract: In recent years technological innovations has allowed large improvements to be made in sail design and construction. Sails and in particular kite-sails have application for sport, ships’ auxiliary propulsion and even power generation. Sails are divided into upwind and downwind sails (Fig.1), where upwind sails operate as lifting surfaces with small angles of attack whereas traditional downwind sails acted as drag device. New designs of downwind sails have reduced the area of separated flow and increased the lifting behaviour of the sails. In order to capture the lifting behaviour and regions of separation present in both types of sail careful application of computational fluid dynamic analysis tools are required. Solutions of the Reynolds averaged Navier- Stokes equations (RANSE) are often used as a part of the design process of high performance sailing yachts.The present paper discusses some initial investigations and future guidelines in order to get a more detailed description of the physics involved in sail FSI. Three main fields are therefore covered: the use of CFD in order to accurately capture flow features and a comparison with experimental results; structural modelling; and approach to coupling

Ship propulsion system having separate propulsion units for cruise and low speeds

Abstract: A ship is provided with a propulsion unit for cruising speed and a cycloidal propeller as a second propulsion unit used for slow speeds. The cycloidal propeller has a propeller housing and a propeller runner with the propeller blades being equi-distantly spaced on a blade orbit and pivotally mounted so that the blades may be pivoted in directions parallel to the direction of travel of the ship. The cylinder propeller may be used as a non-rotating passive rudder when the ship is cruising and may also be used for steering. Structures are disclosed for pivoting of the blades into various positions.

Ram fluid turbine

Abstract: Disclosed in an aircraft mounted ram fluid turbine adapted to be auxiliary driven by compressed gas from the aircraft propulsion engine. The compressed gas drives an auxiliary bladed rotor operably connected to the main bladed rotor of the ram air turbine.

Personnel distress signal

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an improved miniature rocketry system used for propelling a signal flare and includes a pair of generally tubular shaped housings in telescoped engagement, wherein is disposed a propulsion charge, a propulsion charge ignitor, a delay train or timing fuse, a signal display flare and means for insuring complete combustion of all the pyrotechnics. A nozzle structure is provided at one end of the housing to impart a gyroscopically spin stabilized guidance to the rocket trajectory, and an improved propellant spacer is interposed between the nozzle structure and the propulsion charge for the purpose of separation of the members and retention of the propulsion charge during combustion thereof.

Thrust controller for propulsion systems with commonly driven, controllable pitch propellers

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling the thrust delivered by each propeller of a marine propulsion system of the type having a plurality of controllable pitch propellers driven by a common power source. In response to electrical signals supplied to define commanded thrust levels for the propellers, the power source is controlled to provide the power necessary to satisfy the power requirements of the propulsion system and the propeller pitches are individually set so that each propeller absorbs only its proportionate share of the power. Alternative provision is made for carrying out the foregoing in a speed mode or in a power mode. In the speed mode, the power source is controlled in response to any given set of commanded thrust levels so as to maintain the propellers rotating at a substantially constant speed which is selected to be the higher of a predetermined idle speed for the propulsion system and of the minimum speed necessary to satisfy the highest of the commanded thrust levels. In the power mode, the power source is controlled in response to any given set of commanded thrust levels so as to deliver a substantially constant amount of power which is selected to be the power necessary for the propellers to deliver the amounts of thrust commanded therefrom without their shaft speed dropping below the idle speed. The method and apparatus are also compatible with an operation of the propulsion system in which separate engines are dedicated to the several propellers.