Variable flow path housing for blade tip clearance control

Abstract

Example variable flowpath casings for blade tip clearance control are disclosed herein. An example casing of a turbine engine includes a first annular base extending in an axial direction, the first annular base defining a cavity at a radially inward surface of the first annular base, a second annular base positioned at least partially within the cavity of the first annular base, and a tension band extending circumferentially around a periphery of the second annular base.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to turbine engines, and more specifically, to housings in turbine engines. Background Technology

[0002] A turbine engine (also referred to herein as a gas turbine engine) is an internal combustion engine that uses the atmosphere as the moving fluid. A turbine engine typically comprises a fan and a core arranged in fluid communication with each other. As the atmosphere enters the turbine engine, the rotating blades of the fan and core push the air downstream, where it is compressed, mixed with fuel, ignited, and expelled. Typically, at least one casing or housing surrounds the turbine engine. Attached Figure Description

[0003] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of an example gas turbine engine from which the examples disclosed herein can be implemented.

[0004] Figure 2 It is a partial cross-sectional view of an example fan including an example variable flow path housing constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

[0005] Figure 3A This is a schematic diagram of an axial view of an example variable flow path component constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

[0006] Figure 3B It is based on the teachings of this publication. Figure 3A Example of a variable flow path component along line AA: circumferential cross-sectional view.

[0007] Figure 4A yes Figure 3A and 3B A schematic cross-sectional axial view of an example variable flow path housing, including the variable flow path component in a first position.

[0008] Figure 4B yes Figure 3A , 3B A schematic diagram illustrating the example movement of the variable flow path component of 4A.

[0009] Figure 4C yes Figure 3A and 3B A schematic cross-sectional axial view of the variable flow path housing, including the variable flow path component in a second position.

[0010] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional axial view of another example variable flow path component of a variable flow path housing in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

[0011] Figure 6This is a schematic cross-sectional axial view of another example variable flow path component of a variable flow path housing in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

[0012] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example stress-strain graph.

[0013] Figure 8A This is a schematic diagram of a circumferential cross-sectional view of another example variable flow path component constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

[0014] Figure 8B It is in another position according to the teachings of this disclosure. Figure 8A A schematic diagram of a circumferential cross-sectional view of an example variable flow path component.

[0015] Figure 9A This is an illustration of an example tensioning member that can be applied to a variable flow path component constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure.

[0016] Figure 9B This is an illustration of another example tensioning component that can be applied to variable flow path components constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure.

[0017] Figure 10 This is a block diagram of an example gap control system for controlling the tip gap between the rotor blade tip and the variable flow path housing, in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure.

[0018] Figure 11 This means it can be implemented by the example processor circuitry. Figure 10 Flowcharts of example machine-readable instructions and / or example operations for a clearance control system.

[0019] Figure 12 This includes being constructed to execute Figure 11 Example machine-readable instructions and / or example operations for implementation Figure 10 A block diagram of an example processing platform for the processor circuit of the gap control system.

[0020] The accompanying drawings are not to scale. Instead, the thickness of layers or regions can be enlarged in the drawings. While the layers and regions shown in the figures have clearly defined lines and boundaries, some or all of these lines and / or boundaries may be idealized. In reality, boundaries and / or lines may be unobservable, mixed, and / or irregular.

[0021] As used herein, a statement that any part (e.g., layer, film, region, area, or plate) is on another part in any way (e.g., positioned, located, set, or formed, etc.) indicates that the referenced part is either in contact with or above the other part, with one or more intermediate parts located between them. As used herein, unless otherwise stated, a connection reference (e.g., attachment, coupling, connection, and joining) may include intermediate members between elements referenced by the connection reference and / or relative movement between those elements. Therefore, a connection reference does not necessarily imply that two elements are directly connected and / or have a fixed relationship with each other. As used herein, a statement that any part is "in contact" with another part is defined to mean that there is no intermediate part between the two parts.

[0022] Unless otherwise expressly stated, descriptors used herein (such as "first," "second," "third," etc.) do not imputate or otherwise indicate any meaning of priority, physical order, arrangement in a list, and / or any sorting in any way, but are merely used as labels and / or arbitrary names to distinguish elements in order to facilitate understanding of the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptor "first" may be used to refer to an element in the detailed description, while different descriptors (e.g., "second" or "third") may be used in the claims to refer to the same element. In such cases, it should be understood that such descriptors are only used to explicitly identify those elements that may, for example, otherwise share the same name.

[0023] As used herein, “approximately” and “about” modify their subject matter / value to identify variations that may occur in real-world applications. For example, “approximately” and “about” may modify dimensions that may be imprecise due to manufacturing tolerances and / or other real-world defects as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, unless otherwise stated below, “approximately” and “about” may indicate that such dimensions may be within a tolerance range of + / - 10%. As used herein, “substantially real-time” means occurring in a near-instantaneous manner, acknowledging the real-world delays that may exist in computation time, transmission, etc. Therefore, unless otherwise specified, “substantially real-time” means real-time + / - 1 second. In some examples used herein, the term “substantially” is used to describe a relationship between two parts within three degrees of said relationship (e.g., substantially identical within three degrees of said relationship, substantially flush within three degrees of said relationship, etc.). In some examples used herein, the term “substantially” is used to describe values ​​within 10% of said value.

[0024] In at least some cases, approximation language can correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value, or the precision of the method or machine used to construct or manufacture the component and / or system. For example, approximation language can refer to a margin of 1%, 2%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% at the endpoints of a single value, a range of values, and / or a defined range of values.

[0025] As used herein, the phrase “communication”, including its variations, includes direct and / or indirect communication via one or more intermediate components, and does not require direct physical (e.g., wired) and / or continuous communication, but additionally includes selective communication at periodic intervals, scheduled intervals, aperiodic intervals, and / or one-off events.

[0026] The terms "upstream" and "downstream" refer to the relative directions of fluid flow within a fluid path. For example, "upstream" refers to the direction from which fluid flows, and "downstream" refers to the direction from which fluid flows. The terms "front" and "rear" refer to relative positions within a gas turbine engine or vehicle, and specifically to the normal operating posture of the gas turbine engine or vehicle. For example, for a gas turbine engine, "front" refers to the position closer to the engine inlet, while "rear" refers to the position closer to the engine nozzle or exhaust port.

[0027] This document uses various terms to describe the orientation of features. Typically, figures are annotated according to the axial, radial, and circumferential directions of the vehicle associated with the features, forces, and moments. Figures are typically annotated with a set of axes (including axial axis A, radial axis R, and circumferential axis C).

[0028] As used herein, “processor circuitry” is defined to include (i) one or more special-purpose circuits configured to perform a particular operation and comprising one or more semiconductor-based logic devices (e.g., electrical hardware implemented by one or more transistors), and / or (ii) one or more general-purpose semiconductor-based circuits programmable by instructions to perform a particular operation and comprising one or more semiconductor-based logic devices (e.g., electrical hardware implemented by one or more transistors). Examples of processor circuitry include programmable microprocessors, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) with instantiable instructions, central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), XPUs, or microcontrollers and integrated circuits, such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). For example, an XPU may be implemented by a heterogeneous computing system comprising multiple types of processor circuitry (e.g., one or more FPGAs, one or more CPUs, one or more GPUs, more than one DSP, and / or combinations thereof) and an application programming interface (API) that can assign computational tasks to any of the multiple types of processor circuitry best suited to perform the computational task.

[0029] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part thereof, and specific examples that can be practiced are illustrated. These examples are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the subject matter, and it should be understood that other examples may be utilized. Therefore, the following detailed description is provided to describe exemplary embodiments and not to limit the scope of the subject matter described in this disclosure. Certain features from different aspects of the following description may be combined to form new aspects of the subject matter discussed below. Detailed Implementation

[0030] Turbine engines are among the most widely used power generation technologies, commonly used in aircraft and power generation applications. A turbine engine typically includes a fan positioned in front of a core that comprises, in a serial flow sequence, a compressor section (e.g., including one or more compressors), a combustion section, a turbine section (e.g., including one or more turbines), and an exhaust section. Turbine engines can employ any number of different configurations. For example, a turbine engine may include one or more compressors and turbines, single or multiple spools, ducted or non-ducted fans, geared architectures, etc. In some examples, the fan and low-pressure compressor are on the same shaft as the low-pressure turbine, and the high-pressure compressor is on the same shaft as the high-pressure turbine.

[0031] In operation, the fan's rotating blades draw air into the turbine engine and push it downstream. At least a portion of the air enters the core, where it is compressed by the compressor's rotating blades, combined with fuel, and ignited to generate a stream of high-temperature, high-pressure gas (e.g., hot combustion gas), which is then fed into the turbine section. The hot combustion gas expands as it flows through the turbine section, causing the turbine's rotating blades to rotate and produce shaft work output. For example, the rotating blades of a high-pressure turbine may produce a first shaft work output to drive a first compressor, while the rotating blades of a low-pressure turbine may produce a second shaft work output to drive a second compressor and / or a fan. In some examples, another portion of the air bypasses the core and is instead pushed downstream and exhausted from the turbine engine's exhaust port (e.g., generating thrust).

[0032] Typically, a turbine engine includes one or more housings surrounding components of the turbine engine and defining flow channels for airflow through the turbine engine. For example, a turbine engine may include a fan housing surrounding rotor blades of a fan and one or more core housings surrounding rotor blades of a compressor section and / or turbine section. The distance between the tip of a rotor blade (e.g., a rotating blade, such as a fan blade, compressor blade, etc.) and the corresponding housing is called the tip clearance. Typically, the rotor blades are made of a different material than the housing surrounding them. For example, fan blades may be made of metals (e.g., titanium, aluminum, lithium, etc., and / or combinations thereof), while the housing surrounding the fan blades may be made of composite materials. Thus, in some such examples, the fan blades and housings may expand at different rates based on the different coefficients of thermal expansion of their respective materials.

[0033] During operation, the casing and rotor blades are subjected to various loads that affect the tip clearance, such as thermal, pressure, and / or mechanical loads. For example, during operation, metallic rotor blades may contract in response to relatively low ambient temperatures (e.g., based on different thermal expansion), while the composite casing may not contract, resulting in an open tip clearance. Over the course of engine operation, the tip clearance can transition between relatively large and relatively small clearances due to rotor and casing growth (e.g., through rotor speed, thermal expansion of rotating components and casing, etc.). These transitions can lead to tip clearance problems, which can negatively impact the operability and performance of the turbine engine. In some cases, the tip clearance between the blades and casing may be essentially nonexistent. In such cases, rotor blades may rub against the casing (e.g., referred to herein as blade tip friction), which can lead to damage to the turbine engine casing, blades, and / or other components. In some cases, a relatively large tip clearance can lead to performance losses. For example, a relatively large tip clearance can lead to tip leakage flow. Tip leakage flow, as disclosed herein, refers to airflow losses in the region of the casing associated with the rotor blade tip (e.g., the tip region).

[0034] The airflow field in tip regions (e.g., fan blade tip regions, compressor blade tip regions, etc.) is relatively complex due to the vortex structures generated by the interaction of axial flow with rotor blades and surfaces near the blade tips (e.g., the surface of the casing). For example, in a fan, when the tip clearance between the fan blades and the fan casing increases, multiple vortices (e.g., tip leakage, separation, and induced vortices) are generated in the tip region. These interactions lead to significant aerodynamic losses in the fan and reduce the efficiency of the turbine engine. Therefore, fan performance is closely related to its tip leakage mass flow rate and the degree of interaction between the tip and the casing. In the compressor section, the interaction of tip leakage flow with the mainstream flow and other secondary flows leads to reduced efficiency and negatively impacts compressor stability. In some examples, tip leakage can cause compressor and / or fan instability, such as stall and surge. Compressor and / or fan stall is a condition where aerodynamic stall of the rotor blades within the corresponding component causes abnormal airflow, resulting in a slowing or stagnation of airflow through the component. Compressor and / or fan surge refers to a stall that causes an interruption (e.g., complete interruption, partial interruption, etc.) of airflow through the corresponding component.

[0035] Based on the above, at least one factor determining the performance of a turbine engine is the tip clearance associated with the fan and / or compressor. Generally, turbine engine performance improves with a smaller tip clearance to minimize air loss or leakage around the blade tips. If a tight tip clearance is not maintained, a loss of pressure capability and airflow performance will be observed. However, excessively small tip clearance (e.g., leading to blade tip friction) can damage the turbine engine casing, blades, and / or other components. Therefore, the ability to control (e.g., manage) the tip clearance during turbine engine operation is crucial for the aerodynamic performance of the turbine engine.

[0036] The examples disclosed herein enable the fabrication of example variable flow path housings with variable flow path components that provide blade tip-to-housing clearance control. The example variable flow path housings disclosed herein include an example outer substrate surrounding the example variable flow path component. Variable flow path components (e.g., flexible housing flow paths above blade tips) can be used to control the blade tip-to-housing clearance by adjusting the surface of the housing flow path during operation. Controlling the tip clearance between rotor blades and the housing can be challenging due to the different thermal expansion of the rotor blade and housing materials. Some examples disclosed herein provide a material-independent system-level architecture for blade tip clearance control, which can be used for different combinations of blade and housing materials.

[0037] The example variable flow path components disclosed herein include an example inner base and example tensioning (e.g., pressure) elements (e.g., components). The diameter of the example inner base can be adjusted (e.g., during turbine engine operation) to move the surface of the variable flow path housing. The example tensioning element is a belt structure to adjust the inner base diameter. In some examples, the inner base is an annular base comprising a plurality of local slits circumferentially spaced around the annular base and extending in the axial direction. The local slits in the annular base create a plurality of inner base regions that can be moved to adjust the inner base diameter (e.g., differently along the axial direction). For example, the local slits may begin near the leading edge of a corresponding rotor blade array and extend axially toward the trailing edge of the corresponding rotor blade array. The tensioning component may extend circumferentially around the periphery of the inner base regions. For example, the tensioning component may be, for example, a wire, a belt, and / or another structure that can apply circumferential pressure at an axial location on the inner base to adjust the inner base diameter. The tensioning component around the inner base can be tensioned and / or loosened to achieve a desired housing diameter and thus a desired tip clearance.

[0038] In some examples, the example inner base of the example variable flow path housing may be defined by multiple inner base segments (e.g., sections, regions, portions, etc.) extending in the axial direction. In some such examples, adjacent inner base segments may be slidably connected to each other at an example joint. For example, the inner base segments may be connected via a joint that allows adjacent inner base segments to move relative to each other in the radial direction. In some examples, the inner base segments may slide along the example joint for a defined length to help prevent separation of the inner base segments. In some examples, tensioning members may be positioned within a channel in the inner base region that runs circumferentially within the inner base segment. Tensioning members within the inner base segments may be tensioned and / or loosened to achieve a desired housing diameter and thus a desired tip clearance.

[0039] In some examples, the tensioning components can be pre-tensioned to circumferentially hold the inner base regions in a defined position (e.g., close to each other). The tensioning components can be actuated to pull the inner base regions and / or segments radially inward (e.g., to reduce tip gap), and / or can be released to allow the inner base regions and / or segments to move radially outward (e.g., to increase the diameter of the inner base and adjust the tip gap). In some examples, the variable flow path components can be actively and / or passively controlled.

[0040] Certain example variable flow path components can be actively controlled (e.g., actuated). For example, based on proximity sensor readings of the tip clearance between the rotor blade tip and the variable flow path housing, a controller (e.g., a Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system, an electronic controller, etc.) can actuate an example tensioning component to increase and / or decrease the tip clearance, thereby reducing the active tip clearance. For example, a proximity sensor can be positioned on an example variable flow housing at the blade tip region to identify the real-time tip clearance and communicate with the FADEC system to maintain a desired tip clearance. The controller can actuate the example tensioning component when the tip clearance exceeds a defined acceptable range.

[0041] Some example variable flow path components can be passively controlled. Some example tensioning elements can be actuated based on ambient air temperature and / or other environmental stimuli. For example, ambient air can be used to cool and / or heat materials (e.g., smart shape memory alloys (SMA), bimetallic materials, high-alpha materials, etc.) to cause the example tensioning element to adjust the diameter of the surface of the example variable flow path component, thereby reducing the active tip gap.

[0042] The examples disclosed herein can be used to prevent blade tip friction on variable flow housings, thereby reducing the likelihood of damage or destruction to rotor blade tips and / or abrasive materials in the housing. Due to tip loss and abrasive repair of the housing, some examples can reduce rotor blade costs (e.g., maintenance costs). As fan housing dimensions increase with fan size, the examples disclosed herein can reduce manufacturing, assembly, and / or maintenance workload.

[0043] Some examples of variable flow path components include honeycomb structures and / or dampers. Therefore, some examples can serve a dual purpose as compliant structures, absorbing more energy and withstanding increased shock loads during blade shedding events. A blade shedding event refers to the unexpected release of rotor blades during operation. The impact of the rotor blades on the housing (e.g., a shroud) and the subsequent imbalance of rotating components can cause structural loads. Therefore, some examples can reduce damage to variable flow path housings (e.g., to fans, compressors, etc.) under shock loads.

[0044] The examples disclosed herein are discussed in conjunction with variable flow path housings of fan sections (e.g., single-stage fans, multi-stage fans, etc.) of turbine engines. It should be understood that the examples of variable flow path housings with variable flow path components disclosed herein can be additionally or alternatively applied to other sections of turbine engines, including compressor sections and turbine sections. Although the examples disclosed herein are discussed in conjunction with turbofan jet engines, it is understood that the examples disclosed herein can be implemented in conjunction with turbojet engines, turboprop jet engines, combustion turbines for power generation, or any other suitable application.

[0045] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, where the same numbers indicate the same elements throughout all the drawings. Figure 1 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example high-bypass turbofan gas turbine engine 100. Although the example shown is a high-bypass turbofan engine, the principles of this disclosure are also applicable to other types of engines, such as low-bypass turbofan engines, turbojet engines, turboprop engines, etc. Figure 1 As shown, the turbine engine 100 defines a longitudinal or axial centerline axis 102 extending therethrough for reference. Figure 1 It also includes annotated direction diagrams for the axial direction A, radial direction R, and circumferential direction C. Typically, as used herein, the axial direction A is a direction extending approximately parallel to the centerline axis 102, the radial direction R is a direction extending orthogonally outward from the centerline axis 102, and the circumferential direction C is a direction extending concentrically around the centerline axis 102.

[0046] Typically, the turbine engine 100 includes a core turbine or gas turbine engine 104 disposed downstream of a fan (e.g., a fan section) 106. The core turbine 104 includes a substantially tubular housing 108 defining an annular inlet 110. The housing 108 may be formed of a single housing or multiple housings. The housing 108 surrounds, in a series flow relationship: a compressor section having a boost or low-pressure compressor 112 (“LP compressor 112”) and a high-pressure compressor 114 (“HP compressor 114”); a combustion section 116; a turbine section having a high-pressure turbine 118 (“HP turbine 118”) and a low-pressure turbine 120 (“LP turbine 120”); and an exhaust section 122. A high-pressure shaft or spool 124 (“HP shaft 124”) drivesably connects the HP turbine 118 and the HP compressor 114. A low-pressure shaft or spool 126 (“LP shaft 126”) drivesably connects the LP turbine 120 and the LP compressor 112. The LP shaft 126 can also be connected to the fan spool or shaft 128 of the fan 106. In some examples, the LP shaft 126 is directly connected to the fan shaft 128 (e.g., a direct drive configuration). In alternative configurations, the LP shaft 126 can be connected to the fan shaft 128 via a reduction gear 130 (e.g., an indirect drive or gear drive configuration).

[0047] like Figure 1As shown, fan 106 includes a plurality of fan blades 132, which are coupled to and extend radially outward from fan shaft 128. An annular fan housing or nacelle 134 circumferentially surrounds at least a portion of fan 106 and / or core turbine 104. Nacelle 134 may be supported relative to core turbine 104 by a plurality of circumferentially spaced outlet guide vanes 136. Furthermore, a downstream section 138 of nacelle 134 may surround an outer portion of core turbine 104 to define a bypass airflow passage 140 therebetween.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, air 142 enters the inlet portion 144 of the turbine engine 100 during operation. A first portion 146 of the air 142 flows into a bypass airflow passage 140, while a second portion 148 of the air 142 flows into the inlet 110 of the LP compressor 112. One or more sequential stages of the LP compressor stator blades 150 and rotor blades 152, coupled to the LP shaft 126, progressively compress the second portion 148 of the air 142 flowing through the LP compressor 112 and directed to the HP compressor 114. Next, one or more sequential stages of the HP compressor stator blades 154 and rotor blades 156, coupled to the HP shaft 124, further compress the second portion 148 of the air 142 flowing through the HP compressor 114. This compresses the air 158 and supplies it to the combustion section 116, where the air 158 is mixed with fuel and burned to provide combustion gases 160.

[0049] Combustion gas 160 flows through HP turbine 118, where one or more sequential stages of HP turbine stator blades 162 and HP turbine rotor blades 164, coupled to HP shaft 124, extract a first portion of kinetic and / or thermal energy from the combustion gas 160. This energy extraction supports the operation of HP compressor 114. Combustion gas 160 then flows through LP turbine 120, where one or more sequential stages of LP turbine stator blades 166 and LP turbine rotor blades 168, coupled to LP shaft 126, extract a second portion of thermal and / or kinetic energy from the combustion gas 160. This energy extraction causes LP shaft 126 to rotate, thereby supporting the operation of LP compressor 112 and / or the rotation of fan shaft 128. Combustion gas 160 then exits core turbine 104 through exhaust section 122 of core turbine 104. Turbine frame 170 with a cowling assembly is located between HP turbine 118 and LP turbine 120. The turbine frame 170 serves as a support structure, connecting the rear bearing of the high-pressure shaft to the turbine housing and forming an aerodynamic transition duct between the HP turbine 118 and the LP turbine 120. The cowling forms a flow path between the high-pressure turbine and the low-pressure turbine and can be formed using metal castings (e.g., nickel-based cast metal alloys).

[0050] Together with the turbine engine 100, the core turbine 104 serves a similar purpose and is exposed to a similar environment in land-based gas turbine engines and turbojet engines, wherein the ratio of the first portion 146 of air 142 to the second portion 148 of air 142 is less than that of a turbofan engine and a non-ducted fan engine in which the fan section 106 does not have a nacelle 134. In each turbofan engine, turbojet engine, and non-ducted engine, a reduction gear (e.g., reduction gear 130) may be included between any shaft and spool. For example, reduction gear 130 is disposed between the LP shaft 126 and the fan shaft 128 of the fan 106.

[0051] As mentioned above Figure 1 The turbine frame 170 is located between the HP turbine 118 and the LP turbine 120 to connect the rear bearing of the high-pressure shaft to the turbine housing and to form an aerodynamic transition duct between the HP turbine 118 and the LP turbine 120. Therefore, air flows through the turbine frame 170 between the HP turbine 118 and the LP turbine 120.

[0052] Figure 2 This is an example of a turbine engine above the axial centerline (e.g., centerline axis 102). Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of an example fan 200 of a turbine engine 100, including an example variable flow path housing 202 constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure. The variable flow path housing 202 defines at least one flow path for air flowing through the turbine engine 100. The variable flow path housing 202 includes an example first (e.g., outer) base 204, which is an annular base extending in the axial direction to surround and / or house the fan 200. The thickness of the outer base 204 is defined by a distance from the outer surface 206 of the outer base 206 toward the inner surface 208 of the outer base 208. In some examples, the inner surface 208 varies in radius in the axial direction and is radially inwardly inclined in the axial direction. In additional or alternative examples, the inner surface 208 may be radially outwardly inclined in the axial direction and / or may maintain a constant radius in the axial direction. In some examples, the outer base 204 implements a first base device.

[0053] Figure 2 The fan 200 includes an example shaft 210 and example rotor blades 212. Although Figure 2 The illustration uses a single rotor blade 212 as an example, but the fan 200 includes an array of rotor blades 212 circumferentially spaced around a shaft 210 and extending radially outward toward the variable flow path housing 202. Each rotor blade 212 includes an example blade tip 214 at its radially outward portion. In operation, the rotor blades 212 rotate circumferentially to push air downstream. The variable flow path housing 202 circumferentially surrounds the rotor blades 212.

[0054] An example blade tip region 216 of the variable flow path housing 202 is shown at the blade tip 214. The blade tip region 216 is associated with an example tip clearance 218, defined by the distance between the blade tip 214 and the blade tip region 216 of the variable flow path housing 202. During operation of the turbine engine 100, the variable flow path housing 202 is subjected to loads that affect the tip region 216 and, more specifically, the tip clearance 218. For example, the tip clearance 218 between the blade tip 214 and the tip region 216 of the variable flow path housing 202 can transition between relatively large and relatively small clearances. In some examples, a relatively large clearance can be between 4% and 10% of the axial line. A relatively small (e.g., essentially non-existent) clearance can allow friction between the blade tip 214 and the blade tip region 216 of the variable flow path housing 202. Furthermore, variations in the tip clearance 218 can affect the airflow through the turbine engine 100 by allowing air to bypass the rotor blades 212 (leading to performance loss and / or stall (e.g., fan stall, compressor stall, etc.)). Therefore, the variable flow path housing 202 includes example variable flow path components (e.g., mechanisms, surfaces, rings, systems, etc.) 220 constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure to control the clearance from the blade tips to the housing. The variable flow path component 220 implements example variable flow path surfaces that can be adjusted during operation with variations in the rotor and / or housing to improve the performance of the fans 106, 200, the compressor section, and / or more generally, the turbine engine 100.

[0055] Figure 2 The variable flow path component 220 includes an example inner substrate 222 implementing the variable flow path surface of the variable flow path housing 202 and an example tensioning component 224. In some examples, the inner substrate 204 implements a second substrate device. In some examples, the tensioning component 224 implements a tensioning device. Figure 2The variable flow path component 220 is at least partially located within an example groove (e.g., cavity, opening, etc.) 226 of the outer substrate 204. The example groove 226 is located at the tip region 216 of the variable flow path housing 202. The example groove 226 extends axially from its front end 228 (e.g., positioned in front of the rotor blade 212) toward its rear end 230 (e.g., positioned behind the rotor blade 212). The groove 226 includes a depth extending radially inward from the inner surface 208 of the outer substrate 204 toward the example groove top plate 232 (e.g., between the inner surface 208 and the outer surface 206 of the outer substrate 208). In some examples, the variable flow path housing 202 includes more than one groove 226. For example, the variable flow path housing 202 may include additional or alternative grooves 226 at another tip region of the fan 200 and / or at the tip region of the compressor rotor blade array. In some examples, a portion of the outer substrate 204 may include a panel, a cellular layer, and / or other components that provide structure, damping, etc.

[0056] In operation, at least a portion of the inner base 222 is configured to move radially inward to reduce the tip clearance 218, and / or radially outward to increase the tip clearance 288 (e.g., to prevent tip friction between the blade tip 214 and the variable flow path housing 202). For example, the inner base 222 can be moved by an example tensioning member 224. The tensioning member 224 is an annular base extending circumferentially around and / or inside (e.g., in a channel) the inner base 222. The tensioning member 224 can be tensioned (e.g., tightened, stretched, pulled, etc.) to pull the inner base 222 radially inward toward the blade tip 214. For example, the tensioning member 224 can be tensioned in response to a relatively large tip clearance 218. Furthermore, the tensioning member 224 can be released to move the inner base 222 radially outward away from the blade tip 214. For example, the tensioning member 224 can be released (e.g., relaxed, released, etc.) in response to a relatively small tip clearance 218 to prevent tip friction.

[0057] In some examples, the variable flow path component 220 and / or the turbine engine 100 include an example clearance control system for detecting and / or actuating the tensioning component 224 (regarding...). Figure 10(As discussed). The gap control system may include at least a sensor for detecting the tip gap 218, a controller for monitoring the tip gap 218 at the tip region 216, and / or a controller and / or actuator for tightening and / or loosening the tensioning member 224. For example, the controller may identify a relatively large and / or relatively small tip gap 218. The controller may be a monitoring circuit controlled by a human and / or an electronic computing device (e.g., a computer). In response to identifying a relatively large and / or relatively small tip gap 218, the controller may be configured to actuate the tensioning member 224 to increase and / or decrease the diameter of the inner base 222, thereby adjusting the tip gap 218. In some examples, a relatively small tip gap 218 is a tip gap of less than about 20 mils. In some examples, a relatively large tip gap 218 is a tip gap of more than about 40 mils. For example, the controller may cause the actuator to tighten the tensioning member 224 to decrease the diameter of the inner base 222, thereby decreasing the tip gap 218. Similarly, the controller can loosen the tensioning member 224 of the actuator to increase the diameter of the inner base 222, thereby increasing the tip gap 218.

[0058] The following describes in further detail the additional or alternative variable flow path components of the example variable flow path housing 202. The example variable flow path components disclosed below are applicable to... Figure 1-2 Example turbo engine 100. Therefore, it is no longer combined. Figure 3A-12 Details of repeating parts (e.g., blade tip 214, tip region 216, tip gap 218, outer base 204, groove 226, etc.). Additionally, for... Figure 2 The same reference numerals for the structure shown were used Figure 3A-12 Similar or identical structures in [the text]. The examples disclosed below apply to structures such as [the text]. Figure 1-2 The example turbine engine 100 described herein has an example fan 200. However, it is understood that the examples disclosed herein can be implemented in additional or alternative fans. Furthermore, the examples disclosed herein can be implemented in one or more core engine housings (e.g., in the compressor section, turbine section, etc.). Moreover, the examples disclosed herein can be applied to a variety of turbine engines, such as multi-axis turbine engines, turboshaft engines, turbine engines with a compressor section, etc.

[0059] Figure 3AThis is an axial view of an example variable flow path component 300 constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure. The example variable flow path component 300 may be positioned within an example groove (e.g., groove 226) of an example outer base 204 of an example variable flow path housing 202. The example variable flow path component 300 includes an example inner base 302 and an example tensioning member 304. In some examples, the tensioning member 204 implements a tensioning device. The example inner base 302 is an annular base extending around and surrounding the rotor blades of the turbine engine 100 (e.g., fan blade 132, rotor blade 212, compressor blades, etc.). In some examples, the inner base 204 implements a second base device. Figure 3A The inner substrate 302 includes a plurality of localized slits 306 extending in the axial direction to create a plurality of inner substrate regions 308 (e.g., similar to a clamp-type structure) comprising an inner substrate 302 of length 309. In some examples, the length 309 is greater than the length of the trench. The localized slits 306 are circumferentially spaced around the inner substrate 302. In some examples, the localized slits 306 are approximately equidistant in the circumferential direction. However, in additional or alternative examples, the localized slits 306 may not be equidistant. In some examples, the distance (e.g., length) 311 by which the localized slits 306 extend is less than the length 309 of the inner substrate 302. In some examples, the distance (e.g., length) 311 by which the localized slits 306 extend is substantially equal to the length of the trench 226. However, in additional or alternative examples, the localized slits 306 may be longer or shorter.

[0060] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A A circumferential view of the variable flow path component 300 along line AA. (See attached image.) Figure 3B As shown, Figure 3A Example tensioning member 304 extends circumferentially around the periphery of inner base 302. In some examples, tensioning member 304 is pre-tensioned to circumferentially hold inner base region 308 of inner base 302 in a first position. For example, the first position may cause the inner surface 310 of inner base 302 to be substantially flush with the inner surface (e.g., inner surface 208) of outer base 204 of variable flow path housing 202. In some examples, tensioning member 304 may be pre-tensioned based on tip gap 218 predicted via a reference database and / or gap detection sensor.

[0061] In some examples, the tensioning element 304 is actively controlled. For example, the tensioning element 304 may be a conductor made of an example shape memory alloy (SMA). Shape memory alloys are materials that can be easily deformed by applying an external force and will return to their original shape when thermal or mechanical forces are applied. For example, the tensioning element 304 made of SMA can be deformed by applying heat to the tensioning element 304 (e.g., by flowing an electric current through the SMA). For example, the tensioning element 304 can be tensioned by applying a load to the conductor to induce tension along its length, in which process an increase in strain and stress occurs.

[0062] In some examples, the tensioning member 304 is passively controlled. For example, the tensioning member 304 may be a wire made of a bimetallic material that passively responds to changes in ambient temperature. A bimetallic material is a material comprising two separate metals bonded together. An alloy is a mixture of two or more materials, while a bimetallic material comprises layers of different metals. The bimetallic material can translate temperature changes into mechanical displacement. For example, the bimetallic material may comprise two different materials that expand at different rates when heated. Thus, as the ambient temperature rises, the different expansions cause the tensioning member 304 to bend in a first manner. Furthermore, as the ambient temperature decreases, the tensioning member 304 may bend in a second (e.g., relative) manner.

[0063] Figures 4A-4C This is a schematic diagram of an example variable flow path housing 202 according to the teachings of this disclosure, wherein Figure 3A and 3B The example variable flow path component 300 is located in different positions. Specifically, Figure 4A The variable flow path component 300 is shown in an example first position 402. For example, the first position 402 can be a rest position (e.g., an initial position) of the variable flow path component 300. The variable flow path component 300 can be in the first position 402 when the turbine engine 100 is started.

[0064] like Figure 4A As shown, an example first end 404 of the inner substrate 302 is coupled to the front end 228 of the groove 226 of the outer substrate 204. Similarly, an example second end 406 of the inner substrate 302 is coupled to the rear end 230 of the groove of the outer substrate 204. In some examples, the second end 406 of the inner substrate 302 is coupled to the outer substrate 204, while the first end 404 of the inner substrate 305 is separate from the outer substrate 202. In some examples, the inner substrate 302 is a component separate from the outer substrate 204, which is fixed or otherwise coupled to the outer substrate 202. In some examples, the inner substrate 302 and the outer substrate 204 are a single component. For example, the inner substrate 302 and the outer substrate 204 may be formed into a single housing component via additive manufacturing and / or subtractive manufacturing processes.

[0065] Figure 4B An example motion of the variable flow path component 300 is shown. That is, Figure 4B The direction of movement of the tensioning member 304, which moves the inner base 302 in an example first direction 408, is shown. For example, the variable flow path member 300 is shown in a first position 402. Starting from the first position 402, the tensioning member 304 can be pulled (e.g., via electric current, changes in ambient temperature, mechanical stringer) (hereinafter referred to as...). Figure 9A and 9B (Discussed, etc.) so that the variable flow path component 300 is in the example second position 410 to adjust the tip gap 218. Pulling the tensioning component 304 radially inward causes the inner base 302 to move radially inward, reducing the tip gap 218 between the blade (e.g., rotor blade 212 and / or another blade) and the variable flow path housing 202.

[0066] Figure 4C A variable flow path component 300 in the second position 410 is shown. The inner base 302 includes a plurality of inner base regions 308. Pulling of the tensioning component 304 on the inner base 302 causes the inner base regions 308 of the inner base 302 to move radially inward. Therefore, Figure 4C An example inner base region 308 is shown in a second (e.g., radially inward) position 410.

[0067] Figure 4B The direction of movement of the tensioning member 304, which moves the inner base 302 in the example second direction 412, is also shown. For example, the tensioning member 304 can be loosened (e.g., via electric current, changes in ambient temperature, mechanical longitudinal beams, etc.) to adjust the tip gap 218. Loosening the tensioning member 304 causes it to move radially outward, resulting in the base region 308 of the inner base 302 moving radially outward toward the first position 402. This radial outward movement of the inner base 302 increases the tip gap 218 between the rotor blades 212 and the variable flow path housing 202.

[0068] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of another example of a variable flow path component 500 constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. Figure 5 Example variable flow path component 500 is similar to Figures 3A-4C The variable flow path component 300. Therefore, the variable flow path component 500 includes an example inner base 302 and an example tensioning member 304, which can be positioned within an example groove 226 of the example variable flow path housing 202. However, Figure 5 The variable flow path component 500 includes an example honeycomb layer 502 and an example viscoelastic layer (e.g., a damper) 504 positioned within a trench 226. Figure 5 The honeycomb layer 502 is positioned between the top plate 232 of the trench and the damper 504. The honeycomb layer 502 provides energy absorption capacity by damping vibrations.

[0069] Damper 504 can provide damping capability. Figure 5 In the illustrated example, damper 504 is positioned between the honeycomb layer 502 and the inner base 302. Therefore, damper 504, sandwiched between the honeycomb layer 502 and the inner base 302, can capture and / or dissipate vibrations on either side of damper 504. For example, damper 504 can reduce vibrations transmitted from the rotor blades 212 to the variable flow path housing 202. In some examples, damper 504 absorbs impacts from rotor blades 212 before impactors (e.g., blade shedding events, etc.) are directly transmitted to the outer base 204. Therefore, Figure 5 The variable flow path component 500 serves a dual purpose by acting as a compliant structure to absorb more energy and withstand higher impact loads during blade shedding events.

[0070] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of another example of a variable flow path component 600 constructed in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. Figure 6 The variable flow path component 600 is similar to Figure 2-5 Variable flow path components 220, 300, and 500. However, Figure 6 The variable flow path component 600 includes a plurality of tensioning components. Specifically, the variable flow path component 600 includes a first tensioning component 602, a second tensioning component 604, and a third tensioning component 606. Tensioning components 602, 604, and 606 can be formed using materials that operate at different temperatures. For example, the first tensioning component 602 can be formed from a first material that operates at a first temperature to reduce the diameter of the inner substrate 302 by a first distance. In some examples, the first tensioning component 602 implements a tensioning device. In some examples, the second tensioning component 604 can be formed from a second material that operates at a second temperature to reduce the diameter of the inner substrate 302 by a second distance, the second distance being smaller than the first distance. In some examples, the second tensioning component 604 implements a tensioning device. In some examples, the third tensioning component 606 can be formed from a third material that operates at a third temperature to reduce the diameter of the inner substrate 302 by a third distance, the third distance being smaller than the first and second distances. In some examples, the third tensioning component 606 implements a tensioning device.

[0071] In some examples, the variable flow path component 600 may include more or fewer tensioning components 602, 604, 606. In some examples, one or more of the tensioning components 602, 604, 606 may be made of the same material. In some examples, the tensioning components 602, 604, 606 may be positioned within channels of the inner base 302 (e.g., as described below). Figure 8A and 8B (Discussed).

[0072] Figure 7 This is an illustration of an example stress-strain graph 700. The mechanical properties of a material are typically examined through its stress-strain (e.g., load-deformation) behavior. Therefore, the stress-strain graph 700 can be used to identify the mechanical properties of the variable flow path components 300, 500, 600, and 800 disclosed herein. Figure 7 The stress-strain graph 700 can represent an example SMA. The stress-strain graph 700 includes stress measurements on an example Y-axis 702 and strain measurements on an example X-axis 704.

[0073] Depending on the temperature and stress applied to the material, SMA can exhibit two phase states, including an austenitic phase and a martensite phase. The stress-strain curve 700 includes an example austenitic boundary 706 and an example martensite boundary 708. The austenitic phase, associated with a specific macroscopic shape, is the stronger phase that appears at higher temperatures. When stress is applied to the material, it can transform into the martensite phase, in which deformation can occur on a macroscopic scale. The martensite phase is softer than the austenitic phase. The martensite phase appears at lower temperatures and is easily deformable. Depending on the amount and direction of the strain causing deformation, materials in the martensite phase can exhibit different macroscopic shapes (e.g., detwinning). After stress removal, heating the material can transform it from the martensite phase to the austenitic phase, allowing the material to regain its original shape (e.g., geometry). That is, materials in the austenitic phase retain memory and "remember" the pre-deformed shape. The austenitic boundary 706 and martensitic boundary 708 of the SMA can differ depending on the preload tension in the tensioning components, the number of tensioning components, the length of the tensioning components, the temperature, and / or the amount of clearance.

[0074] Figure 8A and 8B This is another example of a variable flow path component 800 in a different location, in accordance with the teachings of this disclosure. (See also...) Figure 8A As shown, the variable flow path component 800 includes an example inner base 802 divided into a plurality of inner base regions 804. In some examples, the inner base 802 implements a second base device. The inner base regions 804 are circumferentially spaced around the rotor blades (e.g., rotor blade 212, etc.) of the turbine engine 100. The inner base regions 804 extend in an axial direction.

[0075] In some examples, the inner substrate region 804 includes a honeycomb structure. The inner substrate region 804 is defined by a thickness extending radially inward from an example first (e.g., outer) annular surface 806 toward an example second (e.g., inner) annular surface 80. In some examples, the inner substrate region 804 includes an example abrasive material layer at the second annular surface 808. The abrasive material may be at least one layer of abrasive material (e.g., rubber, nickel-aluminum, etc.) applied to the radially inward surface of the inner substrate region 804.

[0076] Adjacent inner base regions 804 are slidably connected to each other at an example joint 810. In some examples, the joint 810 implements a joining device. The example joint 810 allows the inner base regions 804 to slide relative to each other within a defined distance range. For example, the joint 810 allows the inner base regions 804 to slide apart (e.g., to increase the diameter of the inner base 802) to a certain length to prevent the inner base regions 804 from separating as the diameter increases.

[0077] exist Figure 8A In the illustrated example, each inner base region 804 includes an example first channel 812 and an example second channel 814 (e.g., positioned radially inward from the first channel 812). Channels 812, 814 are positioned between an inner annular surface 808 and an outer annular surface 806. In additional or alternative examples, the inner base region 804 may include one or more channels 812, 814. An example first tensioning member 816 is positioned within the example first channel 812. Similarly, an example second tensioning member 818 is positioned within the second channel 814.

[0078] Figure 8A The variable flow path component 800 includes an example tensioner 820. A first tensioning member 816 and a second tensioning member 818 are operatively coupled to the example tensioner (e.g., an actuator, etc.) 820. In some examples, the first tensioning member 816 and / or the second tensioning member 818 implements a tensioning device. The tensioner 820 is configured to pull the tensioning members 816, 818 to reduce the diameter of the tensioning members 818, 818. The reduction in the diameter of the tensioning members 816, 818 causes the inner base region 804 to move radially inward to reduce the diameter of the inner base 802 and reduce the tip gap 218. The tensioner 820 is configured to release the tensioning members 816, 818 to increase the diameter of the tensioning members 816, 818. The increase in the diameter of the tensioning members 816, 818 causes the inner base region 804 to move radially outward to increase the diameter of the inner base 802 and increase the tip gap 218. Therefore, the tensioner 820 can tighten and / or loosen the tensioning components 816, 818 to achieve the desired diameter of the inner base 802, and thus achieve the tip gap 218.

[0079] Figure 8A A variable flow path component 800 at an example first position 822 associated with an example first diameter 824 is shown. For example, the first position 822 may be a rest position, and the first diameter 824 may be a diameter in which the inner annular surface 808 is substantially flush with the inner surface 208 of the outer base 204.

[0080] Figure 8B A variable flow path component 800 is shown at an example second position 826 associated with an example second diameter 828, the example second diameter 828 being smaller than... Figure 8A The first diameter 824. For example, in response to a relatively large tip gap 218, the tensioner 820 pulls the tensioning members 816, 818 to reduce the diameter of the tensioning members 816, 818, thereby achieving a second diameter 828 to reduce the tip gap 218. In response to a relatively small tip gap 218, the tensioner 820 can release the tensioning members 816, 818 to increase the diameter of the tensioning members 816, 818, thereby achieving a first diameter 824 to increase the tip gap 218. However, in additional or alternative examples, the tensioner 820 can achieve other diameters for the tensioning members 816, 818 and / or the inner base 802.

[0081] Figure 9A This is an illustration of another example tensioning member 900 that can be applied to variable flow path components 300, 500, 600, 800 constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure. For example, the tensioning member 900 may be positioned around the periphery of an inner base 304, within channels 812, 814, etc. In some examples, the tensioning member 900 implements a tensioning device. The tensioning member 900 of FIG. 9 achieves control of the variable tip gap 218 based on the selective actuation of the tensioning member 900. The tensioning member 900 includes an example conductor 902. The conductor 902 of FIG. 9 is a single conductor, but may be a segmented conductor in additional or alternative examples. The tensioning member 900 includes an example tensioner 904, which is a mechanical beam (e.g., a conductor tensioner). For example, the tensioner 904 may be a combination of a conductor tensioner and clamp, a head (e.g., a combination of tightening a nut and clamp to change tension), and / or other means suitable for applying and / or releasing conductor tension. In some examples, the tensioner is an electrically powered tensioner, which includes or otherwise communicatively connects to a power source. While the tensioners 904 in Figure 9 are generally equidistant around the conductors 902, in additional or alternative examples, the tensioners 9004 may include different spacing dimensions. Figure 9A In the example shown, the tensioning component 900 includes four tensioners 904, but in additional or alternative examples, the tensioning component 900 may include more or fewer tensioners 904.

[0082] In operation, tensioner 904 applies a force (e.g., clamping force) to conductor 902, causing a change in the diameter of conductor 902. For example, tensioner 904 can pull conductor 902 to decrease its diameter (e.g., increase tip gap 218) or push conductor 902 to increase its diameter (e.g., decrease tip gap 218). In some examples, one or more tensioners 904 can be used to isolate certain portions (e.g., segments) of conductor 902 from the rest of conductor 902. Tensioner 904 can be selectively varied to apply a force to conductor 902 at a given location and / or based on the activation (e.g., power) level of tensioner 904. For example, the force applied by tensioner 904 can be varied across two or more tensioners 804. In some examples, tensioner 904 can be used to control the tension in a segment of conductor 902 to differ from the rest of conductor 902.

[0083] Figure 9B This is an illustration of another example of a tensioning member 910 that can be applied to variable flow path components 300, 500, 600, 800 constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure. For example, the tensioning member 900 may be positioned around the periphery of the inner base 304, within channels 812, 814, etc. In some examples, the first tensioning member 910 implements a tensioning device. Figure 9B The tensioning component 910 includes example wire segments 912 connected to example shape memory alloy (SMA) segments 914. Each wire segment 912 is positioned between two adjacent SMA segments 914. Although Figure 9B The diagram shows four conductor segments 912 and four SMA segments 914, but additional or alternative examples may include more or fewer segments 912 and 914.

[0084] As described above, the SMA can be easily deformed by applying an external force and returns to its original shape when thermal or mechanical forces are applied. In operation, one or more SMA segments 914 can be deformed simultaneously and / or selectively (e.g., by allowing current to flow through the SMA). That is, each SMA segment 911 can be heated to different levels by applying a load to the SMA segment 914 to induce tension along each respective length. Forces in the SMA segment 914 cause the corresponding conductor segment 912 on either side of the thermally activated SMA segment 911 to be pulled radially inward. The radial inward movement of the SMA segment 914 causes the adjacent conductor segment 912 to move radially inward, reducing the diameter of the variable flow path component 910. Forces can be removed from the SMA segment 914, causing the SMA segment 914 to move radially outward, thereby causing the conductor segment 912 to move radially outward and increasing the diameter of the variable flow path component 910. In some examples, compared to the location of the conductor segment 912 where the SMA segment 914 is not activated, the SMA segment 914 can selectively apply force to one or more conductor segments 912 to create a variable radius in the region of those conductor segments 912.

[0085] Figure 10 This is a block diagram of an example gap control system 1000 for determining the tip gap 218 and actuating the variable flow path components 300, 500, 600, 800. Figure 10 The gap control system 1000 can be instantiated by processor circuitry (e.g., a central processing unit that executes instructions) (e.g., creating an instance, generating it over any time period, materializing it, implementing it, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, Figure 10 The gap control system 1000 can be instantiated (e.g., instantiated, generated, materialized, implemented, etc.) by an ASIC or FPGA configured to perform operations corresponding to instructions. It should be understood that... Figure 10 Some or all of the circuits can be instantiated at the same or different times. For example, some or all of the circuits can be instantiated in parallel execution on hardware and / or in one or more threads that execute serially on hardware. Furthermore, in some examples, Figure 10 Some or all of the circuitry can be implemented by one or more virtual machines and / or containers that execute on the microprocessor.

[0086] The clearance control system 1000 includes at least one example sensor 1002 configured to monitor components of a turbine engine (e.g., turbine engine 100). For example, sensor 1002 can detect any number of operating characteristics of turbine engine 100 (e.g., during operation). Sensor 1002 may include a temperature sensor for detecting ambient temperature, a proximity sensor for detecting tip clearance, a height sensor, a power rod angle sensor, and / or other types of sensors.

[0087] The clearance control system 1000 includes an example engine simulator circuit 1004, which is configured to simulate the performance of the turbine engine 100 based on data from sensors. In some examples, the engine simulator circuit 1004 is configured to execute engine simulator commands and / or perform operations (such as...). Figure 11 The processor circuitry (instantiated by the flowchart representing those operations) is instantiated. During operation, sensor 1002 can sense operational characteristics associated with the variable flow path housing 202. For example, the operational characteristic could be the tip gap 218. Engine simulator circuitry 1004 can receive data from sensor 1002 and can analyze the data. In some examples, engine simulator circuitry 1004 can apply a machine learning model to determine whether to actuate the example variable flow path component.

[0088] The gap control system 1000 includes an example database 1006, which is a storage circuit for storing information. For example, the database 1006 may store data collected from the sensor 1002, machine learning models, and / or other information used to maintain gap control.

[0089] The clearance control system 1000 includes an example controller 1008 configured to control one or more components of the turbine engine 100. The controller 1008 can be a controller and / or a controller system. In some examples, the controller 1008 can be an engine controller (e.g., an electronic engine controller (EEC), an electronic control unit (ECU), etc.). In some examples, the controller 1008 can operate as a control device for a FADEC system. Based on information from the engine simulator circuit 1004 and example control rules 1010, the controller 1008 can be configured to actuate example tensioning components (e.g., tensioning components 224, 304, 602, 604, 606, 900, 910) in response to the identification of a relatively large and / or relatively small tip clearance 218.

[0090] The clearance control system 1000 includes example control rule 1010, which determines the ideal or good tip clearance 218 of the turbine engine 100. Based on the tip clearance 218, control rule 1010 provides information on when to actuate the variable flow path components 300, 500, 600, 800 to increase and / or decrease the tip clearance 288 by adjusting the flow path surface of the variable flow path housing 202.

[0091] Although Figure 10 The implementation is shown in the figure. Figure 10 An example of the clearance control system 1000, but Figure 10One or more of the components, processes, and / or devices shown may be combined, divided, rearranged, omitted, eliminated, and / or implemented in any other way. Furthermore, the example engine simulator circuit 1004, the example controller 1008, and / or more generally, Figure 10 The example gap control system 1000 can be implemented by hardware alone, or by a combination of hardware and software and / or firmware. Therefore, for example, any of the example engine simulator circuit 1004, the example controller 1008, and / or more generally, the example gap control system 1000 can be implemented by processor circuitry, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, logic circuitry, programmable processors, programmable microcontrollers, graphics processing units (GPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), and / or field-programmable logic devices (FPLDs) (e.g., field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs)). Furthermore, in addition to… Figure 10 Those shown or alternatives Figure 10 Those shown, Figure 10 The example gap control system 1000 may include one or more elements, processes and / or devices, and / or may include more than one of any or all of the elements, processes and devices shown.

[0092] Figure 11 The document shows the implementation. Figure 10 The flowchart illustrates an example hardware logic circuit, machine-readable instructions, a hardware-implemented state machine, and / or any combination thereof for a gap control system 1000. Machine-readable instructions can be generated by processor circuitry (e.g., in conjunction with the following). Figure 12The processor circuitry 1112 shown in the example processor platform 1100 discussed executes one or more executable programs or portions thereof. The program may be embodied in software stored on one or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media (e.g., optical disc (CD), floppy disk, hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), digital versatile disc (DVD), Blu-ray disc, volatile memory (e.g., any type of random access memory (RAM), etc.), or non-volatile memory (e.g., electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory, HDD, SSD, etc.) associated with the processor circuitry located in one or more hardware devices, but the entire program and / or portions thereof may alternatively be executed by one or more hardware devices other than the processor circuitry and / or embodied in firmware or dedicated hardware. Machine-readable instructions may be distributed across multiple hardware devices and / or executed by two or more hardware devices (e.g., server and client hardware devices). For example, the client hardware device may be implemented by an endpoint client hardware device (e.g., a hardware device associated with a user) or an intermediate client hardware device (e.g., a radio access network (RAN) gateway) that facilitates communication between the server and endpoint client hardware devices. Similarly, non-transitory computer-readable storage media may include one or more media located in one or more hardware devices. Furthermore, although references... Figure 10 The flowcharts shown depict an example program, but many other methods of implementing the example gap control system 1000 can be used alternatively. For example, the execution order of the blocks can be changed, and / or some of the blocks described can be changed, eliminated, or combined. Additionally or alternatively, any or all blocks can be implemented by one or more hardware circuits (e.g., processor circuits, discrete and / or integrated analog and / or digital circuits, FPGAs, ASICs, comparators, operational amplifiers (op-amps), logic circuits, etc.) configured to operate accordingly without executing software or firmware. Processor circuits can be distributed across different network locations and / or located in a single machine (e.g., single-core processors (e.g., single-core central processing unit (CPU)), multi-core processors (e.g., multi-core CPUs, XPUs, etc.)), multiple processors distributed across multiple servers in a server rack, multiple processors distributed across one or more server racks, CPUs and / or FPGAs located in the same package (e.g., the same integrated circuit (IC) package or in two or more separate housings, etc.).

[0093] Machine-readable instructions described herein may be stored in one or more of the following formats: compressed format, encrypted format, segmented format, compiled format, executable format, packaged format, etc. Machine-readable instructions as described herein may be stored as data or data structures (e.g., portions of instructions, code, representations of code, etc.) that can be used to create, manufacture, and / or produce machine-executable instructions. For example, machine-readable instructions may be segmented and stored on one or more storage devices and / or computing devices (e.g., servers) located in the same or different locations (e.g., in the cloud, edge devices, etc.) within a network or network set. Machine-readable instructions may require installation, modification, adaptation, updating, combination, supplementation, construction, decryption, decompression, unpacking, distribution, redistribution, compilation, etc., to make them directly readable, interpretable, and / or executable by computing devices and / or other machines. For example, machine-readable instructions may be stored in multiple portions that are individually compressed, encrypted, and / or stored on separate computing devices, wherein these portions, when decrypted, decompressed, and / or combined, form a set of machine-executable instructions that, when implemented, can together form one or more operations such as the program described herein.

[0094] In another example, machine-readable instructions may be stored in a state where they can be read by processor circuitry, but require the addition of libraries (e.g., dynamic link libraries (DLLs)), software development kits (SDKs), application programming interfaces (APIs), etc., to enable execution of the machine-readable instructions on a specific computing device or other device. In yet another example, it may be necessary to construct the machine-readable instructions (e.g., stored settings, data inputs, recorded network addresses, etc.) before they can be executed in whole or in part. Therefore, the machine-readable medium used herein may include machine-readable instructions and / or programs regardless of their specific format or state when stored or otherwise at rest or in transit.

[0095] The machine-readable instructions described in this article can be represented by any past, present, or future instruction language, scripting language, programming language, etc. For example, machine-readable instructions can be represented using any of the following languages: C, C++, Java, C#, Perl, Python, JavaScript, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Structured Query Language (SQL), Swift, etc.

[0096] As mentioned above, Figure 11Example operations can be implemented using executable instructions (e.g., computer and / or machine-readable instructions) stored on one or more non-transitory computer and / or machine-readable media (e.g., optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, HDDs, flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), CDs, DVDs, caches, any type of RAM, registers, and / or any other storage device or disk in which information is stored for any duration (e.g., extended time periods, permanent, transient instances, temporary buffers, and / or information caches)). As used herein, the terms non-transitory computer-readable medium, non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, non-transitory machine-readable medium, and non-transitory machine-readable storage medium are expressly defined to include any type of computer-readable storage device and / or disk, excluding propagation signals and transmission media. As used herein, the terms "computer-readable storage device" and "machine-readable storage device" are defined to include any physical (mechanical and / or electrical) structure that stores information, but exclude propagation signals and transmission media. Examples of computer-readable and machine-readable storage devices include any type of random access memory, any type of read-only memory, solid-state memory, flash memory, optical disk, hard disk, disk drive, and / or redundant array of independent disks (RAID) system. As used herein, the term "device" refers to a physical structure, such as mechanical and / or electrical equipment, hardware, and / or circuitry that can or cannot be constructed from computer-readable instructions, machine-readable instructions, etc., and / or manufactured for executing computer-readable instructions, machine-readable instructions, etc.

[0097] "Comprising" and "including" (and all forms and tenses thereof) are used herein as open-ended terms. Therefore, whenever a claim uses any form of "comprising" or "including" (e.g., including, comprising, having, etc.) in the preamble or in any type of claim statement, it should be understood that additional elements, terms, etc., may be present without exceeding the scope of the corresponding claim or statement. As used herein, when the phrase "at least" is used as a transitional term, for example, in the preamble of a claim, it is open-ended in the same way that the terms "comprising" and "including" are open-ended. The term "and / or," when used, for example, in the form of A, B, and / or C, refers to any combination or subset of A, B, C, such as (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (4) A and B, (5) A and C, (6) B and C, or (7) A and B and C. As used herein in the context of describing structures, components, items, objects, and / or things, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to any implementation comprising (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing structures, components, items, objects, and / or things, the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to any implementation comprising (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. As used herein in the context of describing the conduct or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities, and / or steps, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to any implementation comprising (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing the conduct or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities, and / or steps, the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to any implementation comprising (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0098] As used herein, singular references (e.g., “a,” “an,” “first,” “second,” etc.) do not exclude plurals. As used herein, the term “a” or “an” refers to one or more of those objects. The terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more,” and “at least one” are used interchangeably herein. Furthermore, although listed separately, multiple means, elements, or method actions can be implemented by, for example, the same entity or object. Moreover, while individual features may be included in different examples or claims, these may be combined, and inclusion in different examples or claims does not imply that the combination of features is infeasible and / or disadvantageous.

[0099] Figure 11This is a flowchart representing example machine-readable instructions and / or example operations 1100 that can be executed and / or instantiated by processor circuitry to cause example variable flow path components. Figure 11 Machine-readable instructions and / or operations 1100 begin at block 1102, in which example engine simulator circuit 1004 monitors the tip gap 218 between rotor blades 132, 152, 156, 212 (e.g., rotor blade array) and the blade tip regions 216 of the housings 108, 134, 138, 202 surrounding the rotor blades. For example, engine simulator circuit 1004 may receive sensor data from example sensor 1002 to determine the tip gap 218 (e.g., in real time).

[0100] At box 1104, engine simulator circuit 1004 determines whether the tip gap 218 is greater than a threshold distance (e.g., 40 mils, etc.). When the answer to box 1104 is "yes", control proceeds to box 1106, in this example, controller 1008 retracts tensioning components 224, 304, 602, 604, 606, 900, 910 to pull the inner base and reduce its diameter. Control then proceeds to box 1112. When the answer to box 1104 is "no", control proceeds to box 1108.

[0101] At box 1108, engine simulator circuit 1004 determines whether the tip gap 218 is less than a threshold distance (e.g., 20 mils, etc.). When the answer to box 1108 is "yes", control proceeds to box 1110, where in this example, controller 1008 expands tensioning members 224, 304, 602, 604, 606, 900, 910 to allow the inner base to expand and increase its diameter. Control then proceeds to box 1112. When the answer to box 1104 is "no", control proceeds to box 1102, where engine simulator circuit 1004 continues to monitor the tip gap 218. At box 1112, controller 1008 determines whether turbine engine 100 is operating. When the answer to box 1112 is "yes", control proceeds to box 1102, where engine simulator circuit 1004 continues to monitor the tip gap 218.

[0102] Figure 12 This is a block diagram of example processor platform 1100, which is configured to execute and / or instantiate... Figure 11 Machine-readable instructions and / or operations to implement Figure 10 The gap control system 1000. For example, the processor platform 1100 may be a server, personal computer, workstation, self-learning machine (e.g., neural network), mobile device (e.g., mobile phone, smartphone, tablet computer (e.g., iPad)). TMPersonal digital assistants (PDAs), internet devices, set-top boxes, headsets (e.g., augmented reality (AR) headsets, virtual reality (VR) headsets, etc.) or other wearable devices, or any other type of computing device.

[0103] The processor platform 1100 shown in the example includes processor circuitry 1112. Processor circuitry 1112 in the example shown is hardware. For example, processor circuitry 1112 can be implemented by one or more integrated circuits, logic circuits, FPGAs, microprocessors, CPUs, GPUs, DSPs, and / or microcontrollers from any desired family or manufacturer. Processor circuitry 1112 can be implemented by one or more semiconductor-based (e.g., silicon-based) devices. In this example, processor circuitry 1112 implements engine simulator circuitry 1004 and controller 1008.

[0104] The processor circuitry 1112 of the illustrated example includes local memory 1113 (e.g., cache, registers, etc.). The processor circuitry 1112 of the illustrated example communicates via bus 1118 with main memory, which includes volatile memory 1114 and non-volatile memory 1116. Volatile memory 1114 may be implemented using synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), RAMBUS® dynamic random access memory (RDRAM®), and / or any other type of RAM device. Non-volatile memory 1116 may be implemented using flash memory and / or any other desired type of memory device. Access to the main memory 1114, 1116 of the illustrated example is controlled by memory controller 1117.

[0105] The processor platform 1100 shown in the example also includes interface circuitry 1120. Interface circuitry 1120 can be implemented in hardware according to any type of interface standard, such as Ethernet interface, Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, Bluetooth® interface, Near Field Communication (NFC) interface, Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) interface, and / or Peripheral Component Interconnect High Speed ​​(PCIe) interface.

[0106] In the example shown, one or more input devices 1122 are connected to interface circuitry 1120. Input devices 1122 allow users to input data and / or commands into processor circuitry 1112. Input devices 1122 may be implemented as, for example, audio sensors, microphones, cameras (still or video), keyboards, buttons, mice, touchscreens, trackpads, trackballs, isotope devices, and / or voice recognition systems.

[0107] One or more output devices 1124 are also connected to the interface circuitry 1120 of the illustrated example. The output devices 1124 may be implemented, for example, by a display device (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED), organic light-emitting diode (OLED), liquid crystal display (LCD), cathode ray tube (CRT) display, in-place switching (IPS) display, touchscreen, etc.), a haptic output device, a printer, and / or a speaker. Therefore, the interface circuitry 1120 of the illustrated example typically includes a graphics driver card, a graphics driver chip, and / or graphics processor circuitry, such as a GPU.

[0108] The interface circuit 1120 of the example shown also includes communication devices (e.g., transmitter, receiver, transceiver, modem, residential gateway, wireless access point, and / or network interface) to facilitate data exchange with external machines (e.g., any kind of computing device) via network 1126. Communication may be via, for example, Ethernet connections, digital subscriber line (DSL) connections, telephone line connections, coaxial cable systems, satellite systems, field wireless systems, cellular telephone systems, optical connections, etc.

[0109] The processor platform 1100 shown in the example also includes one or more mass storage devices 1128 for storing software and / or data. Examples of such mass storage devices 1128 include magnetic storage devices, optical storage devices, floppy disk drives, HDDs, CDs, Blu-ray disc drives, redundant array of independent disks (RAID) systems, solid-state storage devices (such as flash memory devices and / or SSDs), and DVD drives.

[0110] can be Figure 11 The machine-readable instructions 1132 implemented by the machine-readable instructions can be stored in a mass storage device 1128, a volatile memory 1114, a non-volatile memory 1116, and / or on a removable non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (such as a CD or DVD).

[0111] Based on the foregoing, it will be understood that this document discloses an example variable flow path housing capable of controlling the blade tip-to-housing clearance. The example variable flow path housing disclosed herein includes a variable flow path surface implemented by an example variable flow path mechanism to manage the tip clearance. The example variable flow path component disclosed herein can adjust the surface of the example variable flow path housing to reduce a tip clearance greater than a desired tip clearance, or to increase a tip clearance less than a desired tip clearance.

[0112] Further aspects of this disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses:

[0113] Example 1 includes a housing for a turbine engine, the housing comprising: a first annular base extending in an axial direction, the first annular base defining a cavity at a radially inward surface of the first annular base; a second annular base at least partially positioned within the cavity of the first annular base; and a tension band extending circumferentially around the periphery of the second annular base.

[0114] Example 2 includes the housing according to Example 1, wherein the tension band is pre-tensioned such that the radially inward surface of the second annular base is flush with the radially inward surface of the first annular base.

[0115] Example 3 includes a housing as described in any of the preceding clauses, further including a layer of abrasive material on the radially inward surface of the second annular substrate.

[0116] Example 4 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second annular base includes a plurality of slits extending in an axial direction along the second annular base, each of the slits being defined by a length less than the axial length of the annular base, the slits forming a plurality of second annular base regions.

[0117] Example 5 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the tensioning band is pre-tensioned to circumferentially support the second annular base region at a first position, and wherein the tensioning band is tensioned to pull the second annular base region radially inward, thereby reducing the tip clearance between the housing and the rotor blades.

[0118] Example 6 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the tension band is loosened to increase the diameter of the second annular base, thereby increasing the tip clearance between the housing and the rotor blades.

[0119] Example 7 includes a housing according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the tension band is a conductor.

[0120] Example 8 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the wire is made of a shape memory alloy, and wherein the wire is controlled by allowing current to flow through the wire.

[0121] Example 9 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the conductor is made of a bimetallic material that passively responds to changes in ambient temperature, and wherein the tension band adjusts the diameter of the second annular base based on ambient temperature.

[0122] Example 10 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the second annular base includes a plurality of segments, adjacent segments being slidably connected at a joint, a segment of the segments including a circumferentially extending channel within the segment, and wherein the tension band is positioned within the channel of the segment.

[0123] Example 11 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the tension band is tensioned to reduce the diameter of the second annular base, and wherein the tension band is loosened to increase the diameter of the second annular base.

[0124] Example 12 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein a first joint slidably connects a first adjacent segment and a second adjacent segment to prevent the first adjacent segment and the second adjacent segment from slidingly moving beyond a predetermined distance, thereby preventing the first adjacent segment and the second adjacent segment from separating as the diameter of the second annular base increases.

[0125] Example 13 includes a turbine engine comprising a rotor blade array and a turbine engine housing surrounding the rotor blade array. The turbine engine component includes: the housing; an inner ring radially inwardly positioned from the housing, the inner ring including a plurality of segments, a segment of the segments being connected to an adjacent segment of the segments; and a conductor circumferentially positioned around a radially outward surface of the inner ring, the conductor contacting a surface of the inner ring.

[0126] Example 14 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the turbine engine component further includes a viscoelastic material positioned between the outer casing and the inner ring.

[0127] Example 15 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the turbine engine component further includes a honeycomb structure positioned between the outer casing and the inner ring.

[0128] Example 16 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the turbine engine component further includes an actuator for adjusting the diameter of the wire.

[0129] Example 17 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the plurality of segments of the inner ring are independent segments connected via a connecting means.

[0130] Example 18 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the plurality of segments of the inner ring are circumferentially connected at an axial position downstream of the leading edge of the rotor blade.

[0131] Example 19 includes a housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein adjustment of the diameter of the wire results in adjustment of the diameter of the inner ring.

[0132] Example 20 includes a housing for a turbine engine, the housing comprising: a first base device extending in an axial direction and defining a groove; a second base device positioned at the groove of the first base device; and a tensioning device extending circumferentially around the second base device.

[0133] Example 21 includes a housing for a turbine engine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tensioning device is pre-tensioned such that the radially inward surface of the second base device is flush with the radially inward surface of the first base device.

[0134] Example 22 includes a housing for a turbine engine according to any of the preceding claims, further including a wearable device on the radially inward surface of the second base device.

[0135] Example 23 includes a housing for a turbine engine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second base assembly includes a plurality of slits extending in an axial direction of the second base assembly, each of the slits being defined by a length less than the axial length of the second base assembly, the slits forming a plurality of second base assembly regions.

[0136] Example 24 includes a housing for a turbine engine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tensioning device is pre-tensioned to circumferentially support the second base device region at a first position, and wherein the tensioning device is tensioned to pull the second base device region radially inward, thereby reducing the tip clearance between the housing and the rotor blades.

[0137] Example 25 includes a housing for a turbine engine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tensioning device is loosened to increase the diameter of the second base device, thereby increasing the tip clearance between the housing and the rotor blades.

[0138] Example 26 includes a housing for a turbine engine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tensioning device is a wire.

[0139] Example 27 includes a housing for a turbine engine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wires are made of shape memory alloy, and wherein the wires are controlled by allowing current to flow through them.

[0140] Example 28 includes a housing for a turbine engine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the wire is made of a bimetallic material that passively responds to changes in ambient temperature, and wherein the tensioning device adjusts the diameter of the second base device based on the ambient temperature.

[0141] Example 29 includes a housing for a turbine engine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the second base assembly includes a plurality of segments, adjacent segments being slidably coupled at a coupling device, the segments including circumferentially extending channels within the segments, and wherein the tensioning device is positioned within the channels of the segments.

[0142] Example 30 includes a housing for a turbine engine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the tensioning device is tensioned to reduce the diameter of the second base device, and wherein the tensioning device is released to increase the diameter of the second base device.

[0143] Example 31 includes a housing for a turbine engine according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a first engagement device slidably connects a first adjacent segment and a second adjacent segment to prevent the first adjacent segment and the second adjacent segment from slidingly moving beyond a defined distance, thereby preventing the first adjacent segment and the second adjacent segment from separating when the diameter of the second base device increases.

[0144] Although certain example systems, methods, apparatuses, and articles of manufacture have been disclosed herein, the scope of this patent is not limited thereto. Rather, this patent covers all systems, methods, apparatuses, and articles of manufacture that fall fully within the scope of the claims of this patent.

[0145] The following claims are hereby incorporated by reference in this detailed specification, each claim being an individual embodiment of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A housing for a turbine engine, characterized in that, The housing includes: A first annular base extends in an axial direction, and the first annular base defines a cavity at its radially inward surface. A second annular substrate, the second annular substrate being at least partially located within the cavity of the first annular substrate; the second annular substrate including a plurality of slits extending along the axial direction of the second annular substrate, each of the slits being defined by a length less than the axial length of the annular substrate, the slits forming a plurality of second annular substrate regions; and A tension band extends circumferentially around the periphery of the second annular base.

2. The housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The tension band is pre-tensioned such that the radially inward surface of the second annular base is flush with the radially inward surface of the first annular base.

3. The housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes a wearable material layer on the radially inner surface of the second annular substrate.

4. The housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The tensioning band is pre-tensioned to circumferentially support the second annular base region at a first position, and wherein the tensioning band is tensioned to pull the second annular base region radially inward, thereby reducing the tip gap between the housing and the rotor blades.

5. The housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The tension band is loosened to increase the diameter of the second annular base, thereby increasing the tip clearance between the housing and the rotor blades.

6. The housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The tension band is a conductor.

7. The housing according to claim 6, characterized in that, in, The conductor is made of shape memory alloy, and the conductor is controlled by allowing current to flow through it.

8. The housing according to claim 6, characterized in that, in, The conductor is made of a bimetallic material that passively responds to changes in ambient temperature, and wherein the tension band adjusts the diameter of the second annular substrate based on the ambient temperature.

9. The housing according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The second annular base includes a plurality of segments, adjacent segments being slidably connected at a joint, each segment including a circumferentially extending groove within the segment, wherein the tension band is positioned within the groove of the segment.

10. The housing according to claim 9, characterized in that, in, The tension band is tensioned to reduce the diameter of the second annular base, and wherein the tension band is loosened to increase the diameter of the second annular base.

11. The housing according to claim 9, characterized in that, in, The first joint slidably connects the first adjacent segment and the second adjacent segment, preventing the first adjacent segment and the second adjacent segment from sliding beyond a predetermined distance, thereby preventing the first adjacent segment and the second adjacent segment from separating when the diameter of the second annular base increases.

12. A turbine engine, characterized in that, include: Rotor blade array; as well as A turbine engine housing surrounding the rotor blade array, the turbine engine housing comprising: shell; An inner ring, positioned radially inward from the outer casing, includes a plurality of circumferentially arranged segments, each segment including a corresponding channel extending circumferentially therethrough, and each segment slidably connected to circumferentially adjacent segments by corresponding joints; the corresponding joints are configured to maintain circumferentially adjacent segments relative to each other within a defined distance and A conductor extending through the channel, the conductor being adjusted from a first diameter to a second diameter, wherein the conductor is axially spaced from the housing, the conductor forming surface contact with the inner ring to fix the inner ring at a first circumferential position with the first diameter and at a second circumferential position with the second diameter.

13. The turbine engine according to claim 12, characterized in that, in, The turbine housing further includes a viscoelastic material positioned between the housing and the inner ring.

14. The turbine engine according to claim 12, characterized in that, in, The turbine engine housing further includes a honeycomb structure positioned between the housing and the inner ring.

15. The turbine engine according to claim 12, characterized in that, in, The turbine housing further includes an actuator that moves the wire between the first diameter and the second diameter.

16. The turbine engine according to claim 12, characterized in that, in, The multiple segments of the inner ring are circumferentially connected at an axial position downstream of the leading edge of the rotor blade.

17. The turbine engine according to claim 12, characterized in that, The adjustment of the conductor from the first diameter to the second diameter results in an adjustment of the diameter of the inner ring.

18. The turbine engine according to claim 12, characterized in that, The device further includes a tensioner connected to the conductor, which applies a force to the conductor to adjust the conductor from the first diameter to the second diameter.

19. A housing for a turbine engine, characterized in that, The housing includes: A first base device, the first base device extending in an axial direction, the first base device defining a trench; A second base device, the second base device being positioned at the trench of the first base device; and A tensioning device extending circumferentially around a second base device, the tensioning device moving between a first diameter and a second diameter, wherein at the first diameter, the second base device is at a first distance relative to the first base device; and at the second diameter, the second base device is at a second distance relative to the first base device; the first distance is associated with a first blade tip gap, and the second distance is associated with a second blade tip gap smaller than the first blade tip gap, the tensioning device being radially spaced from the first base device by the second diameter, wherein the tensioning device includes a conductor comprising at least one of a shape memory alloy or a bimetallic material, the tensioning device adjusting from the first diameter to the second diameter based on temperature changes of the conductor.

20. The housing of claim 19, wherein the wire comprises a shape memory alloy, and wherein the temperature change of the wire is based on the current passing through the wire.

21. The housing of claim 19, wherein the wire comprises a bimetallic material, and wherein the temperature change of the wire is based on ambient temperature.

22. The housing of claim 19, wherein the second base device includes a plurality of slits extending along the axial direction of the second base device, each of the slits being defined by a first axial length less than a second axial length of the second base device.

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