Idaho Patent of the Month – July 2024
American Aviation, Inc. has made a significant leap forward with its new aerodynamic engine cowling for turboprop engines. This innovation is designed to enhance the efficiency of air intake and maintain essential de-icing capabilities, ensuring optimal performance even in challenging conditions.
The engine intake air inlet is a crucial component, impacting the power output of the engine. As the plane increases in altitude, this impact increases. As a result, any decrease in the inlet’s performance could significantly impact the plane’s performance. American Aviation’s design not only protects the inlet in the worst of times, but improves performance in the best of times.
The core of this invention is the engine ram-air intake duct, integrated seamlessly into the aerodynamic engine cowling. This duct has been meticulously engineered to improve air intake efficiency, thanks to its unique oval-shaped design. By offsetting the duct’s opening and extending it forward, the invention optimizes airflow, reducing turbulence caused by the rotating spinner. This reduction in turbulent airflow is crucial as it ensures that the air entering the engine is smoother and more consistent, thereby enhancing engine performance.
One of the standout features of this cowling is its advanced de-icing system. By connecting the ram-air intake duct inlet lip to the turboprop engine’s exhaust via circular cross-section tubes, hot exhaust gases are directed to the inlet lip. This prevents ice formation, a common challenge in high-altitude or cold-weather operations. Furthermore, the design includes cooling air openings that ensure the system does not overheat, maintaining the structural integrity and performance of the cowling.
In addition to these functional improvements, the cowling’s design also reduces the total radial height of the intake duct inlet lip near the spinner. This modification not only improves the aerodynamic profile but also increases the air gap between the spinner and the intake duct, further enhancing airflow efficiency.
American Aviation’s aerodynamic engine cowling represents a significant advancement in turboprop engine technology, combining improved air intake efficiency with robust de-icing capabilities. This innovation promises to enhance aircraft performance, safety, and reliability in various operating conditions.
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