Sundstrand Corporation

Kenneth R Carr

Malcolm J McArthur

Leland E Weber

James A Shippling

Gregory I Rozman

Vietson M Nguyen

Albert L Markunas

Vijay K Maddali

Alexander Cook

Michael J Hanson

Paul E Nuechterlein

Mario R Rinaldi

A control for operating an electromagnetic machine in a starting mode of operation wherein the main armature winding of the machine receives electrical power from a controllable power source during the starting mode of operation, comprises a circuit for detecting a magnitude of a parameter of power applied to the main armature winding relative to a stationary frame of reference, a position sensor for detecting rotor position of the electromagnetic machine, a converter responsive to angular position indication for converting the detected parameter magnitude into field and torque producing components relative to a rotating frame of reference, and a circuit responsive to the field and torque producing components for controlling the power source during operation in the starting mode. This control includes an igniter for igniting a prime mover. Further, the control is operable during a first phase prior to ignition of the prime mover for causing the electromagnetic machine to provide motive power to the prime mover so as to accelerate the prime mover at a first predetermined rate, is operable during a second phase subsequent to the first phase so as to accelerate the prime mover at a second predetermined rate, is operable during this second phase for providing fuel to the prime mover to facilitate ignition thereof, and is operable during a third phase subsequent to the ignition of the prime mover so as to accelerate the prime mover at a third predetermined rate to a self-sustaining speed.

Engine starting system utilizing multiple controlled acceleration rates

A method of controllably starting a prime mover, such as a gas turbine engine for an aircraft, in which the prime mover is coupled to a synchronous machine operable in a generating mode in which the synchronous machine converts motive power generated by the prime mover into electrical power and in a starting mode in which the synchronous machine provides motive power to the prime mover to accelerate the prime mover to self-sustaining speed includes three controlled phases: a pre-ignition phase, an ignition phase, and a torque augmentation phase. During each phase the prime mover is accelerated at a predetermined rate. When the motive power provided by the synchronous machine falls below a predetermined level, its operation is converted from its starting mode to its generating mode.

Controlled starting method for a gas turbine engine

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Redmond, WA, United States of America

Kenneth R Carr