Abstract: Methods and systems for aircraft engine trend monitoring include periodically recording the outputs of engine-condition sensors and analyzing the results to examine piston-engine performance trends and predict the need for engine maintenance. Various analyses can be performed, separately or in parallel, including comparing the current parameter values with values recorded for that parameter in previous instances of similar operating conditions; comparing parameter values to predetermined nominal ranges; and detecting parameter values that exhibit trends over time that if followed would result in out-of-bound readings. Sensed parameter values can also be used to detect when recommended engine operating conditions are being exceeded.

Abstract: A turbocharged, compounded cycle ducted fan engine system includes a conventional internal combustion engine drivingly connected to a fan enclosed in a duct. The fan provides propulsive thrust by accelerating air through the duct and out an exhaust nozzle. A turbocharger is disposed in the duct and receives a portion of the air compressed by the fan. The turbocharger compressor further pressurizes the air and directs it to the internal combustion engine where it is burned and exits as exhaust gas to drive the turbine. A power turbine also driven by exhaust gas is also drivingly connected through the engine to the fan to provide additional power. The size and weight of the turbocharger are reduced since the compressor's work is partially achieved by the compression effect of the fan. The total propulsive thrust includes the fan generated thrust which bypasses the turbocharger and the thrust of exhaust gases exiting the turbine.

Abstract: A turbocharged, compounded cycle ducted fan engine system includes a conventional internal combustion engine drivingly connected to a fan enclosed in a duct. The fan provides propulsive thrust by accelerating air through the duct and out an exhaust nozzle. A turbocharger is disposed in the duct and out an exhaust nozzle. A turbocharger is disposed in the duct and receives a portion of the air compressed by the fan. The turbocharger compressor further pressurizes the air and directs it to the internal combustion engine where it is burned and exits as exhaust gas to drive the turbine. A power turbine also driven by exhaust gas is also drivingly connected through the engine to the fan to provide additional power. The size and weight of the turbocharger are reduced since the compressor's work is partially achieved by the compression effect of the fan. The total propulsive thrust includes the fan generated thrust which bypasses the turbocharger and the thrust of exhaust gases exiting the turbine.

Abstract: A fuel metering device for an internal combustion engine, and in which a metering needle, common to a liquid and gaseous fuel chambers having respective inlets for communication with a respective source of liquid and gaseous fuel for the engine, extends between the outlet of the liquid fuel chamber and one of the inlet and the outlet of the gaseous fuel chamber and has thereat a respective valving member adapted for controlling the volume of fuel metered to the engine induction system; and an engine having such device incorporated in the fuel induction system thereof.

Abstract: Apparatus for modifying fuel, including a housing heatable by exhaust gases to effect vaporization and/or thermal cracking and a catalytic reactor for catalytic cracking of the vaporized and/or thermally cracked fuel, the reactor providing gaseous fuel for supply to the engine fuel induction system; and an engine having a fuel supply system incorporating such apparatus.