Rolls-royce Corporation

Claudio Zizzo

James Wolter Ernst

Shawn Thomas Collins

A composite structure is provided. The structure is formed of rigid composite material in which particulates or fibers reinforce a polymer matrix. The structure has first and second electrically conductive metallic meshes embedded therein, and respective electrodes electrically connected to the meshes. The first and second meshes are electrically isolated from each other in the composite material so that the meshes can be held at different electrical potentials to each other. In use, an electrical unit can be provided to electrically bridge the first and second meshes such that electrical signals can be transmitted between the electrodes and the electrical unit via the meshes.

Composite structure

A composite structure is provided. The structure is formed of rigid composite material in which non-metallic continuous fibers reinforce a polymer matrix. The continuous fibers are electrically conductive. The structure has electrodes electrically connected to the continuous fibers. The composite material contains one or more insulating barriers which electrically divide the structure so that a first portion of the material in electrical contact with one of the electrodes can be held at a different electrical potential to a second portion of the material in electrical contact with the other electrode. In use, an electrical unit can be provided to electrically bridge the first and second portions of the material such that electrical signals can be transmitted between the electrodes and the electrical unit via the continuous fibers.

Composite structure and raft for gas turbine engine

A method for determining the speed of at least one rotating fan, such as a propeller, through sensing pressure waves generated by the blades of the fan. An apparatus operable to execute the method is also disclosed. The apparatus includes a fan having a hub portion and a plurality of blades extending radially outward from the hub portion. The apparatus also includes an engine operable to rotate the fan about an axis of rotation. The apparatus also includes a sensor spaced from the fan along the axis of rotation. The sensor is positioned to sense at least one physical condition that is external of the engine and is changed by rotation of the plurality of blades. The sensor is operable to emit a signal corresponding to at least one physical condition. The apparatus also includes a processor operably engaged with the engine and the sensor. The processor is operable to receive the signal from the sensor and change the operation of the engine in response to the signal to change a speed of the fan.

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Derby, United Kingdom

Claudio Zizzo