Position & Velocity Sensor
Problem statement
Imagine an airplane that flies on twenty thousand feet of air, and suddenly, a small shaft overheats due to the excess rotation speed. This shaft melts down and moves in the engine, which leads to the malfunction of the entire power system and eventually causes the airplane to crash. However, such a catastrophe can be prevented, with the help of a position and velocity sensor. GE Aviation is seeking advanced sensor technology for developing an eclectic hybrid system that considers different factors, including weight, performance, reliability, and cost [1]. Aircrafts flying in extreme conditions require sensors that can survive in harsh environments to monitor the engine conditions and control flying attitude. They need a sensor that can detect the current position and the angular velocity of the shaft within the engine. With the help of the sensor, the flying system can be further optimized by utilizing the data transmitted from the sensor. Some may argue that the engine can monitor the output torque and the working condition without the help of the sensor. However, there is a small chance that the engine is not functioning properly, therefore the output data from the engine itself is incorrect. This may cause the flying system to overreact and give false information to the pilots. But with the data from the velocity and position sensor, the flying system can compare two results and determine whether there is a malfunction in the engine. And in comparison to other types of measurement, mounting sensors to the shaft can provide us with the most direct and accurate data. Therefore, we will perform a detailed trade study, research the existing market technologies for position and velocity sensors, compare the specifications based on the client’s requirements to select the optimized sensor technology, and purchase it from the vendor to perform characterization tests. Ultimately, we will provide a low-cost and reliable sensor that satisfies our client’s needs and have the potential to be used in future aviation to ensure safe and efficient operation.[1] Blog, A. T. G. E. (2022, February 3). Electric Skies: Boeing Joins GE And NASA’s Hybrid Electric Flight Project. The GE Aerospace Blog | Aviation & Flight News. Retrieved September 30, 2022, from https://blog.geaerospace.com/sustainability/electric-skies-boeing-joins-ge-and-nasas-hybrid-electric-flight-project/
Team members
Noah Wang – leader
Yiteng Ma – communicator
Yingxuan Guo – accountant
Xuanyu Ma – admin
Client
Brian Cull, General Electric Aviation