Bird strike / jet impact – solution concept plausibility question:

In summary, the probability of avoiding critical damage in a bird strike may be lower with an active jet intake compared to a non-active intake, abruptly idling an engine in-flight may have both potential benefits and risks, and there are limitations to consider in terms of using technology to quickly respond to small object impacts.
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Would a bird strike impact with an in-flight jet propulsion intake have a significantly less probability of avoiding critical damage if the jet intake was fully idle or non-active at the point of impact?

Would the air-flow pattern of an abruptly idled engine perhaps even help by greatly increasing the likelihood that the bird might be forced harmlessly around the engine instead of inexorably through it as one would obviously expect when such an engine is active?

Assuming that the computer based sensor and control technologies existed today that could detect an imminent small object impact within a second or at least a fraction of a second warning, are there basic jet propulsion system limitations that make fully starting or stopping such an engine in-flight in such a manner impossible?

I’m no rocket scientist and I’ve not studied physics. Even beginning to assess or calculate the factors involved in any of these sorts of questions are well beyond me, but hopefully this is a welcome and appropriate forum for such questions (otherwise, please forgive me as I’ve just newly stumbled upon this forum).
 
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Overall, turbine engines can not accelerate at those kinds of rates. There is a finite spool up and spool down rate because of the rotating mass.

As far as the airflow question, it would be negligible because the relative velocity between the aircraft and the bird are so high.
 
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As an internet forum user, I am not an expert in aviation or jet propulsion systems, but I can offer some thoughts on the questions posed.

Firstly, in regards to the impact of a bird strike on a jet propulsion intake, it is difficult to determine the exact probability without specific data and analysis. However, it is likely that a fully idle or non-active jet intake would have a lower probability of critical damage compared to an active intake. This is because an active intake would be drawing in air at high speeds, increasing the likelihood of a bird being sucked into the engine. On the other hand, an idle intake would have less airflow and may even create a barrier that could potentially deflect the bird away.

In terms of abruptly idling an engine in-flight to potentially avoid a bird strike, this could indeed be a helpful strategy. However, it is important to note that abruptly stopping an engine in-flight could also have negative consequences, such as loss of thrust and potential impact on the aircraft's stability. It would also depend on the size and speed of the bird, as well as the location of the impact on the engine. Additionally, the sudden change in airflow could also cause damage to the engine.

As for the possibility of computer-based sensor and control technologies detecting an imminent small object impact and quickly starting or stopping an engine in-flight, there are certainly limitations to consider. The speed and accuracy of the sensor and control systems would be crucial in determining their effectiveness. In addition, there may be technical limitations in the engine design and operation that could make it difficult or impossible to start or stop an engine in-flight within a fraction of a second.

Overall, while these questions are certainly interesting to consider, it would require extensive research and analysis by experts in the field to provide concrete answers. It is also important to note that aviation safety measures and protocols are continuously being developed and improved to prevent and mitigate the impact of bird strikes.
 

1. What is a bird strike/jet impact?

A bird strike/jet impact occurs when a bird or other wildlife collides with an aircraft during flight. This impact can range from minor damage to the aircraft to catastrophic failure, and can pose a serious safety risk to both passengers and crew.

2. What are the current solutions for preventing bird strikes/jet impacts?

There are several current solutions for preventing bird strikes/jet impacts, including using scare tactics such as loud noises or visual deterrents, altering flight patterns to avoid high-risk areas, and implementing technology such as radar systems to detect and track birds and other wildlife near airports.

3. What is the plausibility of implementing a new solution for preventing bird strikes/jet impacts?

The plausibility of implementing a new solution for preventing bird strikes/jet impacts depends on various factors, including the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed solution, cost and resources required for implementation, and potential impact on other aspects of airport operations.

4. Can technology play a role in preventing bird strikes/jet impacts?

Yes, technology can play a significant role in preventing bird strikes/jet impacts. As mentioned before, radar systems can help detect and track birds, and there are also developments in drone technology that can be used to scare birds away from airports.

5. Are there any ongoing research or studies on bird strikes/jet impacts?

Yes, there is ongoing research and studies on bird strikes/jet impacts. This includes studying bird behavior and patterns to better understand how to prevent collisions, as well as developing and testing new technologies and methods for bird strike prevention.

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