Bearing support assembly

Abstract

A bearing support assembly to support one or more bearings on a shaft. The bearing support assembly includes a bearing support frame configured to be coupled to a static frame, a plurality of ribs connected to the bearing support frame, and a bearing support connected to the plurality of ribs and configured to support a bearing of the one or more bearings. The bearing support assembly has a non-axisymmetric stiffness about a circumference of the bearing support assembly.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a bearing support assembly for a compressor section of an engine. BACKGROUND

[0002] Gas turbine engines include rotating shafts for the rotation of various coupled components. For example, a gas turbine engine includes a high pressure shaft for driving a high pressure compressor and a low pressure shaft for driving a low pressure compressor. The shafts are supported within the compressor section via a plurality of bearings. A bearing support assembly supports the bearings about the shaft. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0003] The features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the more detailed description of various example embodiments, as illustrated in the drawings in which like reference characters generally designate like, functionally similar, and / or structurally similar elements.

[0004] Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an engine taken along a centerline of the engine is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0005] Figure 2A A schematic partial cross-sectional view of a bearing support assembly for an engine having a bearing and a shaft taken along a centerline of the engine is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0006] Figure 2B A schematic partial cross-sectional view of a bearing support assembly for an engine having a bearing and a shaft taken along a centerline of the engine is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2A

[0007] Figure 3A A schematic view depicting the stiffness of a bearing support assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0008] Figure 3B A schematic view depicting the stiffness of a bearing support assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0009] Figure 4A A plot of the stiffness of a bearing support assembly about a circumference of a bearing support in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0010] Figure 4B A plot of the stiffness of a bearing support assembly about a circumference of a bearing support in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0011] Figure 4C A plot of the stiffness of a bearing support assembly about a circumference of a bearing support in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0012] Figure 4D ​A plot showing the stiffness of a bearing support assembly around the circumference of a bearing support according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0013] Figure 5 A schematic perspective view of a bearing support assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure is shown.

[0014] Figure 6 A schematic perspective view of a bearing support assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure is shown. Figure 5 A schematic front end cross-sectional view of a bearing support assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure is shown.

[0015] Figure 7 A schematic cross-sectional view of a rib of a bearing support assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure taken along a plane extending in a radial direction is shown.

[0016] Figure 8 A schematic cross-sectional view of a rib of a bearing support assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure taken along a plane extending in a radial direction is shown.

[0017] Figure 9 A schematic perspective view of a bearing support assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure is shown.

[0018] Figure 10A A schematic cross-sectional view of a rib of a bearing support assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure taken along a centerline of the rib is shown.

[0019] Figure 10B A schematic cross-sectional view of a rib of a bearing support assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure taken along a centerline of the rib is shown.

[0020] Figure 10C A schematic cross-sectional view of a rib of a bearing support assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure taken along a centerline of the rib is shown.

[0021] Figure 11 A schematic perspective view of a bearing support assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure is shown.

[0022] Figure 12 A schematic perspective view of a bearing support assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure is shown. Figure 11 A schematic front end cross-sectional view of a bearing support assembly according to embodiments of the disclosure is shown.

[0023] FIG. 13 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 14 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 15 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to embodiments of the disclosure.

[0026] Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Figure 17A Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Figure 17B Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 17A Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 17C Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 17A Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 17A Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 18 Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 19 Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 20 Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 21 Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 22 Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 23 Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Figure 24 Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 25 Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Figure 26 Fig. 16 shows a schematic perspective view of a bearing support according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 27 A plot of stiffness of a bearing support assembly as a function of load applied to the bearing support assembly is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 28 A schematic cross-sectional view depicting stiffness of a bearing support assembly in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0041] Figure 29 A schematic cross-sectional view depicting stiffness of a bearing support assembly in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0042] Figure 30 A schematic side cross-sectional view of a bearing support assembly taken along a centerline of an engine is shown in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 31 A schematic end view of a bearing support assembly in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0044] Figure 32 A schematic end view of a bearing support assembly in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The features, advantages, and embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in or are apparent from the detailed description, drawings, and claims. Moreover, it is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and are intended to provide further explanation without limiting the scope of the claimed disclosure as claimed.

[0046] Various embodiments are discussed in detail below. Although certain embodiments are discussed, this is merely for illustration. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that other components and configurations can be utilized without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

[0047] The bearing support assembly of the present disclosure can allow for varying the stiffness of the bearing support assembly in a 360° arrangement around the circumference of the bearing support assembly. This can allow for the bearing in the X-axis direction (e.g., three o’clock and nine o’clock positions) to have a first support stiffness and the bearing in the Y-axis direction (e.g., twelve o’clock and six o’clock positions) to have a second support stiffness. The support of the bearing characterized by the stiffness of the bearing assembly can vary between the X-axis and Y-axis positions, can be constant between the X-axis and Y-axis positions, and / or can vary continuously around the circumference of the bearing support. The stiffness can vary continuously for all operating ranges and / or can be a function of the load applied to the bearing assembly. The stiffness of the bearing support assembly can vary by material, configuration, orientation, thickness, shape, inclusion of gaps, orientation of ribs, etc., and any combination thereof. The stiffness of the bearing support assembly can be asymmetric overall or asymmetric at a predetermined load.

[0048] Referring Figure 1 to the drawings,the engine 10 has a longitudinal axial centerline 12 extending therethrough in an axial direction A. The engine 10 defines a radial direction R extending perpendicularly from the centerline 12, and a circumferential direction C (shown as into and out of the page) extending perpendicularly to the centerline 12 and the radial direction R. The engine 10 can be, for example and without limitation, a gas turbine engine, a turbofan engine, an open rotor engine, a turboshaft engine, a turbojet engine, or a turboprop engine, including marine and industrial turbine engines and auxiliary power units. Figure 1

[0049] The engine 10 includes a core engine 14 and a fan section 16 positioned upstream thereof. The core engine 14 generally includes an outer casing 18 defining an annular inlet 20. In addition, the outer casing 18 can also enclose and support a low pressure compressor 22 for increasing the pressure of air entering the core engine 14 to a first pressure level. A multi-stage axial high pressure compressor 24 can then receive pressurized air from the low pressure compressor 22 and further increase the pressure of such air. Pressurized air exiting the high pressure compressor 24 can then flow to a combustor 26 within which fuel is injected into the pressurized air stream, and the resulting mixture combusted within the combustor 26. High energy combustion products 64 are directed from the combustor 26 along a hot gas path of the engine 10 to a high pressure turbine 28 to drive the high pressure compressor 24 via a high pressure shaft 30 (also referred to as a shaft 30), and then to a low pressure turbine 32 to drive the low pressure compressor 22 and the fan section 16 via a low pressure shaft 34 that is generally coaxial with the high pressure shaft 30. After driving each of the high pressure turbine 28 and the low pressure turbine 32, the combustion products 64 can be exhausted from the core engine 14 via an exhaust nozzle 36 to provide propulsive jet thrust.

[0050] In addition, as Figure 1 shown, the fan section 16 of the engine 10 includes a rotatable axial fan rotor 38 configured to be surrounded by an annular nacelle 42. In certain embodiments, the low pressure shaft 34 can be directly connected to the fan rotor 38 or a rotor disk 40, for example in a direct drive configuration. In alternative configurations, the low pressure shaft 34 can be connected to the fan rotor 38 via a reduction device, such as a reduction gear box, for example in an indirect drive or geared drive configuration. Such reduction devices can be included between any suitable shafts / lines within the engine 10 as required or desired. In addition, the fan rotor 38 and / or the rotor disk 40 can be enclosed or formed as part of a fan hub 44.

[0051] The nacelle 42 can be configured to be supported relative to the core engine 14 by a plurality of substantially radially extending, circumferentially spaced outlet guide vanes 46. Thus, the nacelle 42 can enclose the fan rotor 38 and a plurality of fan blades 48. Each fan blade 48 can extend in a radial direction R between a root and a tip relative to the centerline 12. A downstream section 50 of the nacelle 42 can extend over an outer portion of the core engine 14 to define an auxiliary air flow or bypass duct 52 that provides additional propulsive jet thrust.

[0052] During operation of the engine 10, an initial air flow 54 can enter the engine 10 through an inlet 56 of the nacelle 42. The air flow 54 then passes through the fan blades 48 and divides into a first compressed air flow 58 that moves through the bypass duct 52 and a second compressed air flow 60 that enters the low pressure compressor 22. The second compressed air flow 60 then increases in pressure and enters the high pressure compressor 24 as an air flow 62. After mixing with fuel and combusting within the combustor 26, the combustion products 64 exit the combustor 26 and flow through the high pressure turbine 28. Thereafter, the combustion products 64 flow through the low pressure turbine 32 and exit the exhaust nozzle 36 to provide thrust for the engine 10.

[0053] Figure 2A A close-up view of a cross-section of a compressor section of the engine 10 Figure 1 is shown. Figure 2B A perspective view of a close-up view of a compressor section of the engine 10 Figure 1 is shown. Reference is made to Figure 2A and 2B , a forward end 66 of the high pressure shaft 30 is positioned within the compressor section of the engine 10 radially inward of a core air flow path 74 for the second compressed air flow 60 that flows through the core engine 14 Figure 1 . The core air flow path 74 is defined at least in part by a static frame 68 within the compressor section of the engine 10. The static frame 68 can be a single piece unit or can be formed from a plurality of members that are attached together.

[0054] With continued reference to Figure 2A and 2B , the engine 10 includes bearings that support rotation of the high pressure shaft 30 at the forward end 66. For example, the engine 10 includes a forward bearing 70 and an aft bearing 72. Although shown at the forward end 66 of the high pressure shaft 30, the forward bearing 70 and / or the aft bearing 72 can be included at any other location along the high pressure shaft 30, along the low pressure shaft 34 Figure 1 , or any other suitable rotating shaft of the engine 10 or other suitable gas turbine engine.

[0055] Figure 2A and 2BA bearing support assembly 76 is shown for supporting the front bearing 70, the rear bearing 72, or both the front bearing 70 and the rear bearing 72. The bearing support assembly 76 can include a frame 98, which can be a bearing support frame, coupled to a plurality of individual beams or ribs 78. The ribs 78 can be spaced apart along a circumferential direction C of the frame 98 (see, e.g., Figure 5 ). Each rib 78 can include an axial portion 79 extending in the axial direction A. Coupled to each axial portion 79 of the ribs 78 can be a front bearing support rib 80 and a rear bearing support rib 82. The front bearing support rib 80 and the rear bearing support rib 82 can extend inward in the radial direction R from the axial portion 79. Further, the rear bearing support rib 82 can include an axial member 84 extending generally in the axial direction A for supporting the rear bearing 72. The bearing support 76 is attached to the static frame 68 at a first location 86 via a first attachment flange 88 and at a second location 90 via a second attachment flange 92. The bearing support 76 can be referred to as a “mouse shell” or “mouse cage” for the front bearing 70 and the rear bearing 72.

[0056] With continued reference to Figure 2A and 2B , the bearing support assembly 76 can support the front bearing 70, the rear bearing 72, or both the front bearing 70 and the rear bearing 72 in their respective bearing races adjacent the high pressure shaft 30. For example, the bearing support assembly 76 can support the front bearing 70 within a front bearing race 94. The support can be provided by the front bearing support rib 80. The bearing support assembly 76 can support the rear bearing 72 within a rear bearing race 96. The support can be provided by the rear bearing support rib 82.

[0057] The bearing support assembly 76 can have a stiffness selected to support the front bearing 70 and / or the rear bearing 72. For example, the bearing support 76, the ribs 78, the axial portions 79, the front bearing support rib 80, the rear bearing support rib 82, the frame 98, any portion thereof, or any combination thereof can be designed, sized, dimensioned, oriented, or shaped to provide a particular or predetermined stiffness to the respective bearing.

[0058] In some examples, the stiffness of the bearing support assembly 76 can be constant around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 76. In some examples, the stiffness can vary around the circumference of the bearing support assembly. For example, with reference to Figure 3A and 3B , the bearing support assembly 76 can be supported by a rib 78a at the twelve o’clock position (point A), a rib 78b at the three o’clock position (point B), a rib 78c at the six o’clock position (point C), and a rib 78d at the nine o’clock position (point D). In Figure 3A , the stiffness K can be constant around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 76. In Figure 3BIn this configuration, the stiffness can vary at different points around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 76. For example, the bearing support assembly 76 may have a first stiffness K1 at points A and C, and a second stiffness K2 at points B and D. The first stiffness K1 and the second stiffness K2 may be different. In some examples, the stiffness may additionally or alternatively vary between adjacent points (e.g., between points A and B, etc.), may vary between points and be the same at points, may be constant between points, or a combination thereof.

[0059] Figures 4A-4D The diagram illustrates some exemplary variations in stiffness around the circumference of the bearing support assembly. For example, in... Figure 4A In this design, the bearing support assembly can have a stiffness represented by curve 150a. Specifically, the bearing support assembly provides a first stiffness at a first point K1 around its circumference, a second stiffness at a second point K2 around its circumference, a third stiffness at a third point K3 around its circumference, and a second stiffness again at a fourth point K2 around its circumference. In some examples, the first point K1 can be located at the twelve o'clock position (e.g., ...). Figure 3A Point A in the diagram), and the second point K2 can be located at the three o'clock position (e.g., point A). Figure 3A Point B in the middle), the third point K3 can be located at the six o'clock position (for example, point B in the middle), and point K3 can be located at the six o'clock position (for example, point B in the middle). Figure 3A Point C in the middle), and the fourth point K2 can be located at the nine o'clock position (e.g., Figure 3A Point D in the diagram). In this way, the bearing support assembly exhibits the highest stiffness K1 at the 12 o'clock position and the lowest stiffness K3 at the 6 o'clock position. An average stiffness K2 exists at the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions. (As shown in the diagram...) Figure 4A As shown, the stiffness can vary sinusoidally around the circumference of the bearing support assembly.

[0060] In another example, such as Figure 4B As shown, the stiffness of the bearing support assembly can vary linearly around the circumference of the bearing support assembly, as indicated by curve 150b. The highest stiffness K1 can occur at the twelve o'clock position, and the lowest stiffness K3 can occur at the six o'clock position. The average stiffness K2 can be exhibited at the three o'clock and nine o'clock positions. In another example, as... Figure 4C As shown, the stiffness of the bearing support assembly can vary linearly around the circumference of the bearing support assembly, as indicated by curve 150c. The highest stiffness K1 can occur at the twelve o'clock position, and the lowest stiffness K3 can occur at the six o'clock position. The average stiffness K2 can be exhibited at other points around the circumference, such as the three o'clock and nine o'clock positions. In another example, as... Figure 4DAs shown, the stiffness of the bearing assembly can vary around the circumference of the bearing support assembly in a spline or curve, as shown by curve 150d. The spline or curve can be a polynomial order (e.g., second order, third order, or higher order) curve. For example, the highest stiffness K1 can occur at the twelve o'clock position, and the lowest stiffness K3 can occur at the six o'clock position. The average stiffness K2 can occur at the three o'clock position and the nine o'clock position.

[0061] Figures 4A-4D The examples of FIGS. 15A-15D are merely exemplary and the stiffness of the bearing support assembly can be selected to vary around the circumference of the bearing support assembly in any position and in any pattern, array, or curve to achieve the desired support of the bearing assembly. As can be seen in the present disclosure, for example Figure 5 Additional ribs can be located between the depicted ribs 78a, 78b, 78c, and 78d. The stiffness K at each rib can be selected to provide a particular support of the high pressure shaft 30 by the bearing support assembly 76. The stiffness can vary along the circumference of the bearing support 76.

[0062] Figures 5-32 FIGS. 15A-15D represent exemplary ways of varying the stiffness at particular positions, segments along the circumference, and / or along the entire circumference of the bearing support assembly. Any of the exemplary ways of varying the stiffness can be combined with other ways of varying the stiffness as described herein. Figures 5-32 Any of the exemplary ways of FIGS. 15A-15D can vary in any of the ways described above, for example, with respect to Figures 4A-4D FIGS. 15A-15D.

[0063] Figures 5-17C A non-axisymmetric bearing support assembly is described. Figures 5-17C A bearing support assembly of the present disclosure can have a bearing support assembly with a continuously varying stiffness for all operating ranges of the engine.

[0064] Figures 5-8 An exemplary bearing support assembly 100 is shown. The bearing support assembly 100 includes a plurality of ribs 104 circumferentially spaced around the bearing support assembly 100 in direction C. The plurality of ribs 104 can be located between a frame 102 (also referred to as a bearing support frame 102) and a bearing support 106. A first rib 104a can be located at the twelve o'clock position (point A), a second rib 104b can be located at the three o'clock position (point B), a third rib 104c can be located at the six o'clock position (point C), and a fourth rib 104d can be located at the nine o'clock position (point D). The bearing support assembly 100 can support a plurality of bearings 108 located around a shaft 30.

[0065] As previously described, the stiffness can vary around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 100. In Figures 5-7In the example, stiffness can be varied by changing or altering the material of rib 104. For example, the thickness of rib 104, the material of rib 104, and / or the cross-section across the circumference of the bearing support member can be varied around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 100 to change the stiffness of the bearing support assembly 100.

[0066] Figure 7 and 8 A bimetallic beam arrangement with variable modulus of elasticity for rib 104 is shown. That is, rib 104 can be formed from a substrate coated in an auxiliary material to change the stiffness of rib 104. This change can be achieved by selecting an auxiliary coating material (e.g., a material with higher strength for higher stiffness rib 104 and lower strength for lower stiffness rib 104, and / or a material with higher Young's modulus for higher stiffness rib 104 and lower Young's modulus for lower stiffness rib 104) or by the thickness of the applied coating (e.g., a larger thickness for higher stiffness rib 104 and a smaller thickness for lower stiffness rib 104).

[0067] For example, refer to Figure 7 Each rib 104, a subset of ribs 104, or all ribs 104 can be formed of a first material 107 and a second material 109. The first material 107 can be steel and the second material 109 can be aluminum. Therefore, the ribs 104 can be formed from a steel substrate having an aluminum deposit surrounding them. Figure 8 In this configuration, each rib 104, a subset of ribs 104, or all ribs 104 may be formed of a first material 110 and a second material 112. The first material 110 may be steel and the second material 112 may be titanium. Therefore, the ribs 104 may be formed from a steel substrate having titanium deposits surrounding them. The specific configuration of the ribs 104 may be selected based on the desired stiffness at specific locations around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 100. For example, one could choose... Figure 8 The material arranged as shown is used to produce a higher ratio. Figure 7 The arrangement shown uses materials with higher stiffness. In this way, when higher stiffness is desired, a choice can be made... Figure 8 The ribs, and can be selected when lower stiffness is desired. Figure 7 The ribs. For example. Figure 5 The first rib 104a and the third rib 104c can be as follows Figure 8 The structure shown, and Figure 5 The second rib 104b and the fourth rib 104d can be as follows Figure 7 The configuration shown is available. You can choose... Figure 7 and Figure 8 The material relative to Figure 5 Other arrangements of rib 104. Other materials may be provided, alone or in combination, to provide the desired stiffness to rib 104. Such other materials may include, for example, but not limited to, nickel, titanium, aluminum, or combinations thereof.

[0068] Figures 9-10C An example bearing support assembly 200 is shown. The bearing support assembly 200 can be asymmetric due to the mixed arrangement of solid ribs, hollow ribs, and hollow filled ribs. The bearing support assembly 200 includes a plurality of ribs 204 circumferentially spaced around the bearing support assembly 200. The plurality of ribs 204 can be located between a frame 202 (also referred to as a bearing support frame 202) and a bearing support 206. Points A, B, C, and D again represent the twelve o’clock position, the three o’clock position, the six o’clock position, and the nine o’clock position around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 200.

[0069] In Figures 9-10C examples, the stiffness around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 200 can be varied by changing or altering the construction of the ribs 204. For example, the ribs 204 can be solid, hollow, or hollow filled with a filler material. Figures 10A-10C Any combination of ribs of may be provided in a single bearing support assembly 200 to provide a desired stiffness at various points around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 200. By providing a combination of hollow ribs, solid ribs, and hollow filled ribs, a hybrid beam structure can be provided around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 200.

[0070] For example, in Figure 10A , the rib 204a can be a solid rib 210a. In Figure 10B , the rib 204b can be a hollow filled rib 210b. Within the hollow rib of the hollow filled rib 210b can be a material 212. The material 212 can be a bimetallic material. The hollow filled rib 210b can be filled with the material 212 to vary the stiffness at different locations around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 200 Figure 9 ). The material 212 can be a high strength insert. In Figure 10C , the rib 204c can be a hollow rib 210c.

[0071] Figure 11 and 12 An example bearing support assembly 300 is shown. The bearing support assembly 300 can be asymmetric due to the ring cutout of the bearing support ring. The bearing support assembly 300 includes a plurality of ribs 304 circumferentially spaced around the bearing support assembly 300. The plurality of ribs 304 can be located between a frame 302 (also referred to as a bearing support frame 302) and a bearing support ring (also referred to as a bearing support 306). Points A, B, C, and D again represent the twelve o’clock position, the three o’clock position, the six o’clock position, and the nine o’clock position around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 300. The bearing support assembly 300 can support a plurality of bearings (not shown) located around the shaft 30 and between the bearing support 306 and the shaft 30.

[0072] In Figure 11 and 12In the example of FIG. 12, the stiffness around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 300 can be changed by changing or altering the construction of the bearing support 306. For example, the bearing support 306 can be a split bearing support having a first bearing support 306a and a second bearing support 306b. A gap 307 is located between the distal end of the first bearing support 306a and the distal end of the second bearing support 306b. The gap 307 can be aligned with the three o'clock position (point B) and the nine o'clock position (point D). Thus, the stiffness K2 of the bearing support assembly 300 at the gap 307 can be lower than the stiffness K1 at the first bearing support 306a and / or the second bearing support 306b. In this manner, the stiffness K1 at points A and C can be greater than the stiffness K2 at points B and D. The stiffness can decrease from point A as the bearing support 306 approaches the gap 307, which can be the lowest stiffness around the circumference of the bearing support 306. The gap 307 can be formed by a ring cut in the bearing support 306 to create a split or segmented bearing support. The segmentation can be at multiple locations.

[0073] Referring to FIGS. 13-17C, an example bearing support assembly 700 is shown. The bearing support assembly 700 includes a plurality of ribs 704. The ribs 704 are coupled to a frame 702, also referred to as a bearing support frame 702. The ribs 704 are spaced circumferentially around the bearing support assembly 700. The ribs 704 are located between the frame 702 and a bearing support 706. The ribs 704 can include fixed ribs 705 and movable ribs 707. The fixed ribs 705 can be arranged in an alternating pattern with the movable ribs 707. The movable ribs 707 are rotatable relative to the frame 702. For example, the movable ribs 707 can have a vertical position 708 or a horizontal position 710 when the bearing support assembly 700 is viewed in an end view. The orientation of the movable ribs 707 can be selected to provide a desired stiffness around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 700.

[0074] For example, in FIG. 13, the movable ribs 707 at the twelve o’clock and six o’clock positions can be in a horizontal position 710. The movable ribs 707 at the three o’clock and nine o’clock positions can be in a vertical position 708. This can result in a higher stiffness at the horizontal position 710 than at the vertical position 708. Thus, the stiffness at the three o’clock and nine o’clock positions is higher than the stiffness at the twelve o’clock and six o’clock positions. In FIG. 14, the arrangement of the bearing support assembly 700 can be reversed such that the movable ribs 707 at the twelve o’clock and six o’clock positions are in the vertical position 708. The movable ribs 707 at the three o’clock and nine o’clock positions are in the horizontal position 710. This can result in a higher stiffness at the twelve o’clock and six o’clock positions than at the three o’clock and nine o’clock positions. In FIG. 15, each of the twelve o’clock, three o’clock, six o’clock, and nine o’clock positions can be in the horizontal position 710. In FIG. 16, each of the twelve o’clock, three o’clock, six o’clock, and nine o’clock positions can be in the vertical position 708.

[0075] In Figures 17A-17C , the arrangement of the movable ribs 707 can be the same as shown in FIG. 14, where the movable ribs 707 at the twelve o’clock and six o’clock positions are in the vertical position 708. The movable ribs 707 at the three o’clock and nine o’clock positions are in the horizontal position 710. The fixed ribs 705 can have a rectangular, circular, polygonal, or other shape cross-section. For example, the fixed ribs 705 can be rods or bars. As Figure 17C shown, each movable rib 707 can be formed of stacked layers of material. For example, Figure 17C The movable ribs 707 can have a first layer of material 722, a second layer of material 724, a third layer of material 726, a fourth layer of material 728, and a fifth layer of material 730. Although five layers are described, more or fewer layers can be provided. The layers can be located within a substrate 720. Stacking the layers in a close stack (e.g., when the gap between the layers is small) results in a higher stiffness than stacking the layers loosely (e.g., when the gap between the layers is larger than a close stack). Thus, the number of layers, the material of the layers, the material of the substrate 720, the gap between the layers, or any combination thereof can be varied to achieve a desired stiffness. The movable ribs 707 can have a varying stiffness with respect to a load applied to the bearing support assembly 700, while the fixed ribs 705 can have a constant stiffness.

[0076] Figures 18-25 Non-axisymmetric bearing support assemblies are described. Figures 18-25 The bearing support assemblies can have a bearing support assembly having a variation in circumferential stiffness that is activated after a threshold design level.

[0077] Figures 18-20An example bearing support assembly 400 is shown. The bearing support assembly 400 includes a plurality of ribs 404 circumferentially spaced around the bearing support assembly 400. The plurality of ribs 404 can be located between a frame 402 (also referred to as a bearing support frame 402) and a bearing support 406. Points A, B, C, D again represent twelve o’clock, three o’clock, six o’clock, and nine o’clock positions around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 400, respectively. The bearing support assembly 400 can support a plurality of bearings 408 located around a shaft 30.

[0078] As previously mentioned, the stiffness can vary around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 400. In Figures 18-20 an example, the stiffness can be varied by providing a gap or clearance 412 between the frame 402 and the bearing support 406. The clearance 412 can be non-uniform around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 400. The size of the clearance 412 can vary around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 400. In some examples, the clearance 412 can be filled with a material 414 that can vary the stiffness around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 400.

[0079] Referring to Figure 18 , the clearance 412 has a first radial distance dl and a second radial distance d2 between an outer surface of the bearing support 406 and an inner surface of the frame 402. The first radial distance dl can be greater than the second radial distance d2. The radial distance increases circumferentially from the second radial distance d2 to the first radial distance dl. The first radial distance dl can occur at points A and C. The second radial distance d2 can occur at points B and D. In this way, the clearance 412 can decrease from point A to point B, increase from point B to point C, decrease from point C to point D, and increase from point D to point A. This can allow the stiffness of the bearing support assembly 400 to vary in the circumferential direction.

[0080] Figures 18-20 The bearing support 406 and the frame 402 of are uniform in cross-section and uniform or symmetric in stiffness. The clearance 412 is asymmetric. The larger clearance (e.g., distance dl) at points A and C can allow for a softer plane or lower stiffness than the smaller clearance (e.g., distance d2) at points B and D, which can be a greater stiffness than points A and C.

[0081] In Figure 20 an example, a material 414 can optionally be placed within the clearance 412. The material 414 can be a soft material sandwiched between the bearing support 406 and the frame 402. The material 414 can vary around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 400 by varying the thickness or varying the material. The material 414 can be, but is not limited to, a viscoelastic material, a rubber material, a shape memory alloy material, or a combination thereof.

[0082] Figure 21 The bearing support assembly 400 is shown as a function of the load applied to it. Figure 18 The stiffness of the bearing support assembly 400, as described above, depends on the load and varies circumferentially. For example, because the distance d2 is smaller at points B and D, the bearing support 406 will contact the frame faster when a load is applied at these points than when the same load is applied at points A and C. This is achieved via the X-axis curve 458 and the Y-axis curve 456. Figure 21 As shown in the figure. X-axis curve 458 represents the bearing support assembly 400 at points B and D ( Figure 18 The stiffness at points A and C is represented by the Y-axis curve 456. Figure 18 The stiffness at point (). Line 454 represents the average stiffness of the bearing support assembly, line 450 represents above-average stiffness, and line 452 represents below-average stiffness. Figure 21 In this configuration, when a load is applied to the bearing support assembly, all points around the bearing support assembly will exhibit the same stiffness. This is because, reference... Figure 18 At point L1, neither distance d1 nor d2 closes to close gap 412. At point L1 (e.g., at the threshold load level), the load continues to increase and gap 412 continues to contract. At point L3, gap 412 at points B and D in Figure 3 closes and the bearing support 406 and frame 402 come into contact. This results in high stiffness, i.e., stiffness above average. At point L2, gap 412 at points B and D closes, but gap 412 at points A and C remains open. This results in low stiffness, i.e., stiffness below average.

[0083] Figures 22-24 An exemplary bearing support assembly 500 is shown. The bearing support assembly 500 includes a plurality of ribs 504 circumferentially spaced around the bearing support assembly 500. The plurality of ribs 504 may be located between a frame 502 (also referred to as the bearing support frame 502) and a bearing support member 506. Points A, B, C, and D again represent the twelve o'clock, three o'clock, six o'clock, and nine o'clock positions around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 500, respectively. The bearing support assembly 500 may support a plurality of bearings 508 located around a shaft 30.

[0084] As previously mentioned, the stiffness can vary around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 500. Figure 22 and 23In the example of FIG. 5, the stiffness can be varied by providing a gap or gap 512 between the frame 502 and the bearing support 506. The gap 512 can be uniform around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 500. The gap 512 can be filled with a first material 514 and a second material 513, which can vary the stiffness around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 500. The first material 514 and the second material 513 can have a varying stiffness that varies 360° circumferentially. For example, the first material 514 and / or the second material 513 can be a shape memory alloy. The materials (e.g., shape memory alloy) can have a varying stiffness.

[0085] The bearing support assembly 500 can be a symmetric bearing support with asymmetric system stiffness. As shown in FIG. 6, the asymmetric stiffness can be achieved by providing a first material 514 with a first stiffness and a second material 513 with a second stiffness. In some examples, the first stiffness can be greater than the second stiffness. In some examples, the first stiffness can be less than the second stiffness. For example, in the example of FIG. 6, the first stiffness can be less than the second stiffness, such that the stiffness at points A and C is lower than the stiffness at points B and D, as described with respect to FIG. 5. Figure 22 Figure 18 Figure 20

[0086] Figure 24 Another way of varying the stiffness of the material located in the gap 512 between the frame 502 and the bearing support 506 around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 500 is shown in FIG. 7. In the example of FIG. 7, the gap 512 can have a bellows 520 located therein. A spring 522, a magneto-rheological (MR) fluid 526, and a coil 524 can be positioned within the bellows 520. The MR fluid 526 can be a non-Newtonian fluid. Figure 22 The bellows 520 can be a fluid damper that has a varying stiffness in the circumferential direction. When a load is applied to the bellows 520 to compress the spring 522, the MR fluid 526 is also compressed. As the load increases and the MR fluid 526 is increasingly compressed in a first direction (e.g., at points B and D), the stiffness can increase relative to a second direction (e.g., at points A and C). Figure 24 Figure 24 The stiffness of the bearing support assembly 500 as a function of the load applied to the bearing support assembly 500 is shown in FIG. 8. Whether in the arrangement of FIG. 5 or the arrangement of FIG. 7, the stiffness of the bearing support assembly 500 can be a function of the load applied to the bearing support assembly 500.

[0087] Figure 25 Figure 22 Figure 23 Figure 24 ​​​​​​​The same situation will occur for the plot for changing material stiffness. As described above, the stiffness of the bearing support assembly 500 depends on the load and varies along the circumference. For example, due to the material stiffness varying in the circumferential direction, when a load is applied, the bearing support 406 will come into contact with the frame faster at points where the material stiffness is lower (e.g., at points B and D) than at points where the material stiffness is higher (e.g., at points A and C). This is shown in FIG. 6 via the X-axis plot 558 and the Y-axis plot 556. The X-axis plot 558 represents the stiffness of the bearing support assembly 500 at points B and D (e.g., the lower stiffness). The Y-axis plot 556 represents the stiffness of the bearing support assembly 500 at points A and C (e.g., the higher stiffness). The line 554 represents the average stiffness of the bearing support assembly, the line 550 represents the stiffness above the average stiffness, and the line 552 represents the stiffness below the average stiffness. Figure 25 Figure 22 Figure 22

[0088] Figure 25 When a load is applied to the bearing support assembly, all points around the bearing support assembly will exhibit the same stiffness in FIG. 6. This is because the material at all points is subjected to the load. At point LI, the load continues to increase and the softer material at points B and D begins to compress, resulting in an increase in stiffness as shown by plot 558. As the softer material compresses, points B and D are subjected to more load and the stiffness at points A and C begins to decrease. At point L2, the material at points B and D is fully compressed and experiences maximum stiffness until point L3, when the applied load has compressed the material at points A and C such that the stiffness at all points is again equal at point L4. On the other hand, at point L5, the load experienced by points A and C decreases due to the compression of the material at points B and D until point L6, at which point the stiffness is again equalized as described previously.

[0089] Figure 26 27 A bilinear circumferential stiffness variation is described that activates after a threshold level. Figure 26 The bearing assembly 600 of FIG. 6 has a bearing support 606 and a frame 602, also referred to as a bearing support frame 602. The frame 602 has spring fingers 603. The bearing support 606 has spring fingers 605. The gap 612 between the bearing support 606 and the frame 602 can be uniform. One or more bearings 608 can be supported between the shaft 30 and the bearing support 606. Each of the bearing support 606 and the frame 602 can have asymmetric stiffness.

[0090] Figure 27 The X-axis plot 658 and the Y-axis plot 656 are shown. The X-axis plot 658 represents the stiffness of the bearing support assembly 600 at points B and D (e.g., the lower stiffness). The Y-axis plot 656 represents the stiffness of the bearing support assembly 600 at points A and C (e.g., the higher stiffness). The line 654 represents the average stiffness of the bearing support assembly, the line 650 represents the stiffness above the average stiffness, and the line 652 represents the stiffness below the average stiffness. Figure 22 ​​​​​stiffness of the bearing support assembly 600 at points A and C (e.g., Figure 22 line 650 represents stiffness above average stiffness, and line 652 represents stiffness below average stiffness.

[0091] In Figure 27 , it can be seen that the X-axis position of the bearing support assembly 600 always has greater stiffness than the Y-axis position of the bearing support assembly 600. In the X-axis, when a load is applied to the bearing support assembly 600, the bearing support assembly 600 exhibits a first stiffness. When the gap 612 closes at load LI, the stiffness at the X-axis position increases to line 650 at load L2, which can be the maximum stiffness. In the Y-axis, when a load is applied to the bearing support assembly 600, the bearing support assembly 600 exhibits a first stiffness. When the gap 612 closes at load L3, the stiffness at the Y-axis position decreases to line 652 at load L4, which can be the minimum stiffness, due to the gap 612 closing at the Y-axis position.

[0092] Figures 28-32 Examples of non-axisymmetric supports are shown. Figures 28-32 Examples can have a cross-section of varying thickness. For example, in Figure 28 , the bearing support 806 has a cross-section of varying thickness. Figure 28 The bearing support 806 of the example is always asymmetric. The bearing support 806 can have an inner diameter 812 and an outer diameter 814. At the inner diameter 812, the cross-section can be circular. At the outer diameter 814, the cross-section can be oval or elliptical. Points A, B, C, D again represent the twelve o’clock position, the three o’clock position, the six o’clock position, and the nine o’clock position around the circumference of the bearing support 806, respectively. At the A and C positions, the cross-section thickness is greatest, and at the B and D positions, the cross-section thickness is least. From point A to point B, the thickness of the cross-section gradually decreases to point B, then increases to point C, decreases to point D, and finally increases to point A. This allows for varying stiffness around the bearing support 806. As previously described, the variation can be any variation described. Figures 4A-4D

[0093] In Figure 29 , the bearing support 906a can have an inner diameter 912 and an outer diameter 914. At the inner diameter 912, the cross-section can be circular. At the outer diameter 914, the cross-section can be oval or elliptical. Figures 30-32 ​The bearing support 906a is only asymmetric during high loads and is symmetric at nominal loads. This is due to the gap 918. At high loads, the gap 918 at points B and D will close, resulting in higher stiffness at points A and C where the gap 918 is still open. However, below the load at which the gap 918 closes at points B and D, the stiffness will be symmetric because all points will exhibit the same stiffness.

[0094] Figure 31 A bearing support assembly 1000 is shown. In Figure 32 , the bearing support assembly 1000a can always be asymmetric, while in Figure 30 , the bearing support assembly 1000b can only be asymmetric during high loads and can be symmetric at nominal loads. Referring to Figure 31 , the bearing support assembly 1000 (which can also be the bearing support assembly 1000a and the bearing support assembly 1000b) has a frame 1002 (also referred to as a bearing support frame 1002), a bearing support 1006, and a bearing 1008. The bearing support assembly 1000 also includes a bearing auxiliary support 1020. The bearing auxiliary support 1020 can be placed non-axially symmetrically to change the stiffness around the circumference of the bearing support assembly 1000. For example, in Figure 32 , the bearing auxiliary support 1020a can be placed radially inwards and outwards between the frame 1002 and the bearing support 1006. When members of the bearing auxiliary support 1020a are present (e.g., in the trapezoidal region), the stiffness can be higher than at locations where there are no members. In Figure 31 , the bearing auxiliary support 1020b can be placed such that there is a gap 1018 between the bearing auxiliary support 1020b and the bearing support 1006. In this way, the asymmetric stiffness only occurs when the load increases beyond the point at which the gap 1018 closes, activating the members of the bearing auxiliary support 1020b in a manner similar to that shown in ​ .

[0095] Accordingly, the bearing support assemblies of the present disclosure allow for changing the stiffness of the bearing support assembly. This results in a desired directional stiffness of the bearing support assembly. This further results in a desired active support of the bearing on the shaft at that location based on the particular stiffness at different locations around the circumference of the bearing support assembly.

[0096] The stiffness referred to herein is the stiffness K of a body, measured in Newtons per meter or pounds per inch. That is, the stiffness is the engineering stiffness, which represents the resistance of an elastic body to an applied force-induced deflection or deformation.

[0097] Unless otherwise indicated herein, the terms "coupled", "fixed", "attached to", "connected" and the like, mean either directly coupled, fixed, attached or connected, or indirectly coupled, fixed, attached or connected through one or more intermediate components or features unless otherwise indicated herein.

[0098] Further aspects of the present disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses.

[0099] A bearing support assembly configured to support one or more bearings on a shaft, the bearing support assembly comprising: a bearing support frame configured to be coupled to a static frame; a plurality of ribs connected to the bearing support frame; and a bearing support connected to the plurality of ribs and configured to support a bearing, wherein the bearing support assembly has a non-axisymmetric stiffness that varies around a circumference of the bearing support assembly.

[0100] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the bearing support assembly always has a non-axisymmetric stiffness around the circumference of the bearing support assembly.

[0101] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the bearing support assembly has a non-axisymmetric stiffness above a threshold load level and a symmetric stiffness below the threshold load level.

[0102] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the non-axisymmetric stiffness is a sinusoidal curve, a linear curve, a spline curve, or a combination thereof.

[0103] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the bearing support frame has a twelve o'clock position, a three o'clock position, a six o'clock position, and a nine o'clock position, and wherein the bearing support frame has a greater stiffness at the twelve o'clock position and the six o'clock position than at the three o'clock position and the nine o'clock position.

[0104] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the bearing support frame has a twelve o'clock position, a three o'clock position, a six o'clock position, and a nine o'clock position, and wherein the bearing support frame has a lower stiffness at the twelve o'clock position and the six o'clock position than at the three o'clock position and the nine o'clock position.

[0105] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the bearing support frame has a greater stiffness at an X-axis than at a Y-axis.

[0106] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the bearing support frame has a lower stiffness at an X-axis than at a Y-axis.

[0107] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, the non-axisymmetric stiffness is achieved by varying a material of one or more of the plurality of ribs.

[0108] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the plurality of ribs comprises a first subset of ribs and a second subset of ribs, and wherein a material of the first subset of ribs is different than a material of the second subset of ribs.

[0109] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the material of the first subset of ribs is a steel base with an outer layer of aluminum deposit, and the material of the second subset of ribs is a steel base with an outer layer of titanium deposit.

[0110] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the plurality of ribs comprises a hybrid rib arrangement.

[0111] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the hybrid rib arrangement comprises a combination of solid ribs, hollow ribs, hollow-filled ribs, or any combination thereof.

[0112] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, the non-axisymmetric stiffness is achieved by varying the bearing support.

[0113] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the bearing support comprises a first bearing support spaced apart from a second bearing support by a gap.

[0114] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the gap comprises a first gap between a first distal end of the first bearing support and a first distal end of the second bearing support, and a second gap between a second distal end of the first bearing support and a second distal end of the second bearing support.

[0115] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the bearing support is a split bearing support.

[0116] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising an asymmetric gap between the bearing support and the bearing support frame.

[0117] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a material in the asymmetric gap.

[0118] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the material is a viscoelastic material, a rubber material, a shape memory alloy, or a combination thereof.

[0119] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the first stiffness at the X-axis location is greater than a second stiffness at the Y-axis location when above a threshold load level, and the first stiffness is the same as the second stiffness when below the threshold load level.

[0120] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a symmetric gap between the bearing support and the bearing support frame.

[0121] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the symmetric gap is filled with a first material and a second material, the first material having a greater stiffness than the second material.

[0122] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a symmetric gap between the bearing support and the bearing support frame, wherein the symmetric gap is filled with a magnetorheological fluid.

[0123] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the bearing support frame has a first spring finger adjacent to a second spring finger on the bearing support.

[0124] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a gap between the bearing support frame and the bearing support.

[0125] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the non-axisymmetric stiffness is achieved by varying an orientation of one or more of the plurality of ribs.

[0126] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the plurality of ribs comprises a plurality of fixed ribs and a plurality of movable ribs.

[0127] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the plurality of movable ribs are arranged vertically with respect to a Y-axis.

[0128] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the plurality of movable ribs are arranged horizontally with respect to an X-axis.

[0129] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein a first subset of the plurality of movable ribs are arranged vertically with respect to a Y-axis and a second subset of the plurality of movable ribs are arranged horizontally with respect to an X-axis.

[0130] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the first subset is aligned with a twelve o'clock position and a six o'clock position and the second subset is aligned with a three o'clock position and a nine o'clock position.

[0131] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the first subset is aligned with a three o'clock position and a nine o'clock position, and the second subset is aligned with a twelve o'clock position and a six o'clock position.

[0132] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein one or more of the plurality of moveable ribs is formed from a layer of material within the base material.

[0133] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the non-axisymmetric stiffness is achieved by varying a cross-section of the bearing support.

[0134] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the cross-section is asymmetric such that an outer diameter of the bearing support is oval and an inner diameter of the bearing support is circular.

[0135] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, further comprising a bearing auxiliary support coupled between the bearing support frame and the bearing support.

[0136] The bearing support assembly of any preceding clause, wherein the bearing auxiliary support comprises a plurality of members extending between the bearing support frame and the bearing support.

[0137] A compressor section of a gas turbine engine comprising a shaft for driving a compressor, a static frame, a bearing, and a bearing support assembly coupled between the static frame and the shaft. The bearing support assembly comprises a bearing support frame coupled to the static frame, a plurality of ribs connected to the bearing support frame, and a bearing support connected to the plurality of ribs and configured to support the bearing, wherein the bearing support assembly has a non-axisymmetric stiffness about a circumference of the bearing support assembly.

[0138] While the foregoing description is directed to preferred embodiments, it is noted that other variations and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art and can be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Further, features illustrated with one embodiment can be used in conjunction with another embodiment, even if not explicitly stated.

Claims

1. A bearing support assembly configured to support one or more bearings on a shaft, characterized in that, The bearing support assembly comprises: a bearing support frame configured to be coupled to a static frame; a plurality of ribs connected to the bearing support frame, wherein the plurality of ribs comprises a first subset of ribs and a second subset of ribs, and wherein a material of the first subset of ribs is different than a material of the second subset of ribs; and a bearing support connected to the plurality of ribs and configured to support a bearing of the one or more bearings, wherein the bearing support assembly has a non-axially symmetric stiffness that varies around a circumference of the bearing support assembly.

2. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, wherein the bearing support assembly always has a non-axially symmetric stiffness around the circumference of the bearing support assembly.

3. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, wherein the bearing support assembly has a non-axially symmetric stiffness above a threshold load level and a symmetric stiffness below the threshold load level.

4. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, wherein the non-axially symmetric stiffness is a sinusoidal curve, a linear curve, a spline curve, or a combination thereof.

5. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, wherein the non-axially symmetric stiffness is achieved by varying a material of one or more of the plurality of ribs.

6. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, wherein the material of the first subset of ribs is a steel base with an outer layer of aluminum deposit, and the material of the second subset of ribs is a steel base with an outer layer of titanium deposit.

7. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, wherein the plurality of ribs comprises a hybrid rib arrangement, and wherein the hybrid rib arrangement comprises a combination of solid ribs, hollow ribs, hollow-filled ribs, or any combination thereof.

8. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, wherein the non-axially symmetric stiffness is achieved by varying the bearing support, wherein the bearing support comprises a first bearing support spaced apart from a second bearing support by a gap, and the gap comprises a first gap between a first distal end of the first bearing support and a first distal end of the second bearing support, and a second gap between a second distal end of the first bearing support and a second distal end of the second bearing support, and wherein the bearing support is a split bearing support.

9. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, further comprising an asymmetric gap between the bearing support and the bearing support frame; and a material in the asymmetric gap, wherein the material is a viscoelastic material, a rubber material, a shape memory alloy, or a combination thereof, and wherein a first stiffness at an X-axis location is greater than a second stiffness at a Y-axis location when above a threshold load level, and the first stiffness is the same as the second stiffness when below the threshold load level.

10. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, further comprising a symmetric gap between the bearing support and the bearing support frame, wherein the symmetric gap is filled with a first material and a second material, the first material having a greater stiffness than the second material.

11. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, further comprising a symmetric gap between the bearing support and the bearing support frame, wherein the symmetric gap is filled with a magnetorheological fluid.

12. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, wherein the bearing support frame has a first spring finger adjacent to a second spring finger on the bearing support; and a gap between the bearing support frame and the bearing support.

13. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, wherein the non-axisymmetric stiffness is achieved by varying a cross-section of the bearing support, and wherein the cross-section is asymmetric such that an outer diameter of the bearing support is oval and an inner diameter of the bearing support is circular.

14. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, further comprising a bearing auxiliary support connected between the bearing support frame and the bearing support, wherein the bearing auxiliary support comprises a plurality of members extending between the bearing support frame and the bearing support.

15. The bearing support assembly of claim 1, wherein, wherein the non-axisymmetric stiffness is achieved by varying an orientation of one or more of the plurality of ribs, wherein the plurality of ribs comprises a plurality of fixed ribs and a plurality of movable ribs.

16. The bearing support assembly of claim 15, wherein, wherein one or more of the plurality of movable ribs is formed from a layer of material within a substrate.

17. The bearing support assembly of claim 15, wherein, wherein the plurality of movable ribs are arranged vertically with respect to a Y-axis, horizontally with respect to an X-axis, or wherein a first subset of the plurality of movable ribs are arranged vertically with respect to a Y-axis and a second subset of the plurality of movable ribs are arranged horizontally with respect to an X-axis.

18. The bearing support assembly of claim 17, wherein, wherein the first subset of the plurality of movable ribs are aligned with a twelve o'clock position and a six o'clock position and the second subset of the plurality of movable ribs are aligned with a three o'clock position and a nine o'clock position.

19. The bearing support assembly of claim 17, wherein, wherein the first subset of the plurality of movable ribs are aligned with a three o'clock position and a nine o'clock position and the second subset of the plurality of movable ribs are aligned with a twelve o'clock position and a six o'clock position.

20. A compressor section of a gas turbine engine characterized by, The compressor section comprises: (a) a shaft for driving a compressor; (b) a static frame; (c) a bearing; and (d) a bearing support assembly coupled between the static frame and the shaft, the bearing support assembly comprising: (i) a bearing support frame coupled to the static frame; (ii) a plurality of ribs connected to the bearing support frame, wherein the plurality of ribs comprises a first subset of ribs and a second subset of ribs, and wherein a material of the first subset of ribs is different from a material of the second subset of ribs; and (iii) a bearing support connected to the plurality of ribs and configured to support the bearing, wherein the bearing support assembly has a non-axisymmetric stiffness about a circumference of the bearing support assembly.

Images