Method and apparatus for mitigating movement between compressor housing segments

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for mitigating movement between compressor housing sections are disclosed. An example compressor housing includes a first annular housing section, a second annular housing section surrounding the first section, the second section including an opening through a first surface and a second surface of the second section, the first surface facing the first section, a cylindrical body extending between the first section and the second section, a first end of the cylindrical body being attached to the first section, and a second end of the cylindrical body being attached to the second section. The second end of the cylindrical body is positioned within the opening of the second section, the second end of the cylindrical body being compressively retained within the opening, and a spring surrounding the cylindrical body, the spring being aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical body, the spring being positioned between the first and second annular housing sections, a spring is used to resist movement between the first and second annular housing sections.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to turbofan engines and, more particularly, to methods and apparatus for mitigating motion between compressor casing sections. Background Art

[0002] A turbofan engine (e.g., one used in aircraft) typically consists of a fan, a gas turbine engine that drives the fan, and an external bypass duct. The gas turbine engine includes a compressor section, a combustor, and a turbine section arranged in series flow. The compressor section compresses air and delivers it to the combustor downstream. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example turbofan engine in which examples disclosed herein may be implemented.

[0004] Figure 2A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of an example compressor of an example gas turbine engine constructed according to examples disclosed herein.

[0005] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A Another enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of an example compressor.

[0006] Figure 3A Shown Figures 2A-2B Another example implementation of a portion of an example compressor.

[0007] Figure 3B yes Figure 3A Another view of an example implementation of .

[0008] Figure 4 is with Figure 2B An enlarged cross-sectional view of an example capture mechanism associated with an example compressor.

[0009] Figure 5 Shown Figure 2B An example assembly of multiple compressor casing segments.

[0010] Figure 6 is a graph depicting the relationship between vibration frequency and spring rate for an example compressor housing.

[0011] Generally, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings and the accompanying written description to refer to the same or similar parts. The drawings are not drawn to scale. Rather, the thickness of layers or regions may be exaggerated in the drawings. Although the drawings show layers and regions with clear lines and boundaries, some or all of these lines and / or boundaries may be idealized. In practice, boundaries and / or lines may not be observable, may be blended, and / or may be irregular. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0012] Vibrations in an aircraft can damage the aircraft, the pylons connecting the engine to the aircraft, the engine itself, or any other component on the aircraft. For example, the compressor section of an aircraft engine includes rotor blades that move in conjunction with the compressor casing to compress air. Vibrations can be caused by the rotor blades contacting the compressor casing. In some cases, friction between the rotor blades and the compressor casing not only causes vibrations in the compressor section but can also lead to blade tip loss, which opens the gap between the compressor casing and the rotor blades. Maintaining tight tolerances between the rotor and the interior of the compressor casing facilitates air compression. When these tolerances are affected by blade tip loss, the compressor section can lose performance or efficiency within the engine.

[0013] The examples disclosed herein provide a damping mechanism to mitigate the effects of vibrations on a compressor casing. The disclosed examples reduce or eliminate vibrations between an inner annular compressor casing segment and an outer annular compressor casing segment. For example, the disclosed examples provide radial stiffness to the annular compressor casing segment to offset forces generated by vibrations during operation. Thus, the disclosed examples enable the compressor casing to withstand relatively high frequency modes (e.g., 650 Hertz (Hz)) as radial stiffness (e.g., stiffness associated with a spring) increases. In addition, the disclosed examples maintain a space (e.g., a gap, a clearance, etc.) between the inner annular compressor casing and the adjacent rotor blade tips. The disclosed examples improve the compression efficiency of an aircraft engine compressor by mitigating vibrations or ensuring a gap between the rotor blade tips and the compressor casing. For example, the disclosed examples improve the specific fuel consumption (SFC) of the example aircraft engine by mitigating these vibrations (e.g., requiring less fuel to provide a given power).

[0014] "Include" and "comprising" (and all their forms and tenses) are used herein as open-ended terms. Thus, whenever a claim utilizes any form of "include" or "comprising" (e.g., includes, comprises, having, etc.) as a preamble or in any type of claim recitation, it should be understood that additional elements, terms, etc. may be present without exceeding the scope of the corresponding claim or recitation. As used herein, when the phrase "at least" is used as a transition term, such as in the preamble of a claim, it is open-ended in the same manner that the terms "include" and "comprising" are open-ended. The term "and / or" when used in the form of, for example, A, B, and / or C, refers to any combination or subset of A, B, and C, such as (1) A only, (2) B only, (3) C only, (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 embodiments that include any of the following: (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 embodiments that include any of the following: (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 performance or execution of a process, instruction, act, activity, etc., the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to embodiments that include any of the following: (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 performance or execution of a process, instruction, act, activity, etc., the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to embodiments that include any of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, or (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0015] As used herein, singular references (e.g., "a," "an," "first," "second," etc.) do not exclude plural references. As used herein, the term "a" or "an" object refers to one or more of that object. The terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more," and "at least one" are used interchangeably herein. Furthermore, although listed separately, multiple devices, elements, or actions may be implemented by, for example, the same entity or object. Furthermore, although individual features may be included in different examples or claims, these features may be combined, and inclusion in different examples or claims does not mean that a combination of features is not feasible and / or disadvantageous.

[0016] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the term "above" describes the relationship of two parts relative to the Earth. A first part is above a second part if at least one portion of the second part is between the Earth and the first part. Similarly, as used herein, a first part is "below" a second part when the first part is closer to the Earth than the second part. As described above, a first part can be above or below a second part with one or more of the following: another part in between, no other part in between, the first and second parts in contact, or the first and second parts not in direct contact with each other.

[0017] As used in this patent, when it is stated that any part (e.g., a layer, film, region, area, or plate) is in any way on (e.g., positioned on, located on, arranged on, or formed on, etc.) another part, it means that the referenced part is either in contact with the other part, or the referenced part is above the other part, and one or more intermediate parts are located between them.

[0018] As used herein, connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and joined) may include intermediate members between the elements to which the connection reference refers and / or relative movement between such elements, unless otherwise specified. Thus, connection references do not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected and / or fixed to each other. As used herein, a limitation stating that any part is "in contact with" another part means that there are no intermediate parts between the two parts.

[0019] As used herein, "approximately" and "about" modify their subject matter / value to recognize that there may be variations in actual application. For example, "approximately" and "about" may modify a dimension that may not be exact due to manufacturing tolerances and / or other practical imperfections, as will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art. For example, "approximately" and "about" may indicate that such dimension may be within a tolerance range of + / - 10%, unless otherwise specified herein.

[0020] Unless expressly stated otherwise, descriptors such as "first," "second," "third," etc., used herein do not in any way imply or otherwise indicate any priority, physical order, arrangement in a list, and / or ordering, but are merely used as labels and / or arbitrary names to distinguish elements 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 the same element may be referred to by different descriptors such as "second" or "third" in the claims. In such cases, it should be understood that these descriptors are only used to clearly identify these elements in the context of the discussion (e.g., in the claims), where the elements might, for example, share the same name in other contexts.

[0021] Figure 1is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example high bypass turbofan gas turbine engine 100 ("turbofan engine 100"), which may be incorporated with the various examples disclosed herein. Although the example shown is a high bypass turbofan engine, the principles of the present disclosure are also applicable to other types of engines, such as low bypass turbofan engines, turbojets, turboprops, etc. The turbofan engine 100 includes an outer bypass duct 104 (which may also be referred to as a nacelle, fan duct, or outer casing), a gas turbine engine 106 (which may also be referred to as a core turbine engine or turbomachinery), and a fan section 108. The gas turbine engine 106 and the fan section 108 are at least partially disposed in the outer bypass duct 104. The gas turbine engine 106 is disposed downstream of the fan section 108 and drives the fan section 108 to generate forward thrust. As shown Figure 1 As shown, turbofan engine 100 or gas turbine engine 106 defines a longitudinal or axial centerline axis 102 therethrough for reference. Figure 1 Also included are annotated directional diagrams that reference an axial direction A, a radial direction R, and a circumferential direction C. Generally speaking, as used herein, the axial direction A is a direction extending generally 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 about the centerline axis 102 .

[0022] Gas turbine engine 106 includes a generally tubular outer casing 110 (which may also be referred to as a mid-casing) that defines an annular inlet 112. Outer casing 110 of gas turbine engine 106 may be formed from a single casing or multiple casings. Outer casing 110 surrounds, in series flow relationship, a compressor section having a booster or low-pressure compressor 114 ("LP compressor 114") and a high-pressure compressor 116 ("HP compressor 116"); a combustion section 118 (which may also be referred to as a combustor 118); a turbine section having a high-pressure turbine 120 ("HP turbine 120") and a low-pressure turbine 122 ("LP turbine 122"); and an exhaust section 124. A high-pressure shaft or spool 126 ("HP shaft 126") drivingly couples HP turbine 120 and HP compressor 116. A low-pressure shaft or spool 128 ("LP shaft 128") drivingly couples LP turbine 122 and LP compressor 114. The LP shaft 128 may also be coupled to a fan spool or shaft 130 of the fan section 108. In some examples, the LP shaft 128 may be directly coupled to the fan shaft 130 (i.e., a direct drive configuration). In an alternative configuration, the LP shaft 128 may be coupled to the fan shaft 130 via a reduction gearbox 132 (i.e., an indirect drive or gear drive configuration).

[0023] like Figure 1As shown, fan section 108 includes a plurality of fan blades 134 coupled to and extending radially outward from fan shaft 130. Outer bypass duct 104 circumferentially surrounds fan section 108 or at least a portion of gas turbine engine 106. Specifically, the gas turbine engine is disposed in outer bypass duct 104 such that a bypass airflow passage or duct 136 is formed between outer casing 110 of gas turbine engine 106 and outer bypass duct 104. Outer bypass duct 104 may be supported relative to gas turbine engine 106 by a plurality of circumferentially spaced outlet guide vanes 138.

[0024] like Figure 1 As shown, during operation of turbofan engine 100, air 140 enters an inlet portion 142 of turbofan engine 100. Air 140 is accelerated by fan blades 134. A first portion 144 of air 140 flows into bypass airflow passage 136, while a second portion 146 of air 140 flows into inlet 112 of gas turbine engine 106 (and thus into LP compressor 114). One or more successive stages of LP compressor stator blades 148 and LP compressor rotor blades 150 coupled to LP shaft 128 progressively compress second portion 146 of air 140 flowing through LP compressor 114 and toward HP compressor 116. Next, one or more successive stages of HP compressor stator blades 152 and HP compressor rotor blades 154 coupled to HP shaft 126 further compress second portion 146 of air 140 flowing through HP compressor 116. This provides compressed air 156 to combustion section 118, where compressed air 156 is mixed with fuel and combusted to provide combustion gases 158.

[0025] The combustion gases 158 flow through the HP turbine 120, where one or more successive stages of HP turbine stator blades 160 and HP turbine rotor blades 162 coupled to the HP shaft 126 extract a first portion of kinetic or thermal energy from them. This energy extraction supports the operation of the HP compressor 116. The combustion gases 158 then flow through the LP turbine 122, where one or more successive stages of LP turbine stator blades 164 and LP turbine rotor blades 166 coupled to the LP shaft 128 extract a second portion of thermal or kinetic energy from them. This energy extraction causes the LP shaft 128 to rotate, thereby supporting the operation of the LP compressor 114 or the rotation of the fan shaft 130. The combustion gases 158 then exit the gas turbine engine 106 through its exhaust section 124. The combustion gases 158 mix with the first portion 144 of the air 140 from the bypass airflow passage 136 to generate propulsive thrust.

[0026] Like turbofan engine 100, gas turbine engine 106 has similar applications and has similar environments in land-based gas turbines, turbojet engines (where the ratio of first portion 144 of air 140 to second portion 146 of air 140 is less than that of a turbofan engine), and unducted fan engines (where fan section 108 lacks external bypass duct 104). In turbofan engines, turbojet engines, and unducted engines, a reduction gear (e.g., reduction gearbox 132) may be included between any shaft and spool. For example, reduction gearbox 132 may be provided between LP shaft 128 and fan shaft 130 of fan section 108.

[0027] Figures 2A-2B yes Figure 1 1. An enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of the HP compressor 116 of the gas turbine engine 106 in FIG. The HP compressor 116 of the gas turbine engine 106 includes an example compressor casing 200 having an inner annular casing segment 202 surrounded by an outer annular casing segment 204. Thus, the outer annular casing segment 204 may be radially spaced apart from the inner annular casing segment 202. In some examples, the compressor casing 200 corresponds to the outer casing 110 ( Figure 1 ) or a portion of the outer casing 110. The inner annular casing segment 202 and the outer annular casing segment 204 may be coupled by one or more walls or sections of the compressor casing 200. Figure 2A and 2B As shown in FIG, the inner annular casing segment 202 and the outer annular casing segment 204 are spaced apart such that one or more cavities or chambers are formed between the inner annular casing segment 202 and the outer annular casing segment 204. The inner annular casing segment 202 defines, forms, or otherwise surrounds a passageway for airflow through the HP compressor 116 to the combustion section 118. Figure 1 In some examples, the stator blades (e.g., Figure 1 The stator blades 152 in the embodiment of the present invention are coupled to the inner annular casing segment 202 and extend radially inward from the inner annular casing segment 202. In addition, the rotor blades (e.g., Figure 1 The rotor blades 154 in the embodiment are coupled to and extend radially outwardly toward the inner annular casing segment 202 (e.g., from Figure 1 The HP shaft 126 in the figure is radially outward).

[0028] Figure 2A An example exploded view of the compressor housing 200 is shown. Figure 2B An example assembly diagram of the compressor housing 200 is shown. Figure 2A and 2B In the example, the outer annular shell segment 204 includes an opening 206 extending through opposing surfaces 208, 210 of the outer annular shell segment 204. The example surface 210 faces the inner annular shell segment 202. In addition, as shown in conjunction with Figure 4 As described in detail, an example capture mechanism 212 is attached to the wall of the opening 206 to retain a cylindrical body (e.g., an elongated member, an elongated bolt, a bolt shank, etc.) 214. The example cylindrical body 214 extends between the inner annular shell segment 202 and the outer annular shell segment 204. In some examples, the cylindrical body 214 connects (e.g., couples) the shell segments 202, 204. An example first end 216 of the cylindrical body 214 is attached (e.g., fixed, coupled, fixedly coupled, etc.) to the inner annular shell segment 202. Additionally, an example second end 218 of the cylindrical body 214 is positioned within the opening 206. In other words, the second end 218 can extend through the opening 206 (e.g., protrude radially away from the surface 208). Figure 2B In the example of FIG. 1 , the second end 218 of the cylindrical body 214 is compressively retained within the opening 206 (combined with Figure 4 Detailed description).

[0029] The inner annular shell segment 202 includes a seat 220 positioned on a surface (eg, outer surface) 222 of the inner annular shell segment 202. Figure 2A and 2B As shown, the surface 222 of the inner annular housing segment 202 faces the surface 210 of the outer annular housing segment 204. In some examples, the seat 220 is bolted or otherwise attached to the surface 222 of the inner annular housing segment 202. Furthermore, the seat 220 is shaped / fitted to receive or retain the first end 216 of the cylindrical body 214. Thus, the first end 216 of the cylindrical body 214 contacts the inner annular housing segment 202 via the seat 220. Furthermore, a damper 224 can be positioned within the seat 220 to separate the end of the cylindrical body 214 from the seat 220.

[0030] The example first portion 226 of the cylindrical body 214 is surrounded by an example spring (e.g., a coil spring) 228. The example spring 228 is aligned with an example longitudinal axis 230 of the cylindrical body 214. Thus, the spring 228 and the first portion 226 of the cylindrical body 214 are positioned between the inner annular housing segment 202 and the outer annular housing segment 204 (e.g., Figure 2B 20). Furthermore, an example second portion 232 of the cylindrical body 214 is positioned between the spring 228 and the outer annular housing segment 204. The second portion 232 of the cylindrical body 214 is positioned closer to the outer annular housing segment 204 than the first portion 226 is. Thus, the spring 228 may be sandwiched between the second portion 232 of the cylindrical body 214 and the seat 220. In this example, the diameter of the second portion 232 of the cylindrical body 214 is larger in size than the diameter of the first portion 226 of the cylindrical body 214.

[0031] During operation, the inner annular housing segment 202 and the outer annular housing segment 204 can move relative to each other. For example, the inner annular housing segment 202 moves radially outward toward the outer annular housing segment 204. In such an example, the seat 220 (which moves with the inner annular housing segment 202) applies a compressive force to the spring 228 (e.g., the end 234 of the spring 228). The spring 228, sandwiched between the seat 220 and the second portion 232 of the cylindrical body 214, compresses. However, the stiffness (e.g., spring constant) of the spring 228 allows the spring 228 to resist compression. The spring 228 can engage the seat 220 and the second portion 232 of the cylindrical body 214 to resist movement (e.g., radial movement) between the housing segments 202, 204. For example, the spring 228 engages the seat 220 and the cylindrical body 214 to separate the housing segments 202, 204.

[0032] Go to Figure 3A and 3B , the example compressor housing 200 can include an example nut 300 to modify, improve, or change the stiffness of the spring 228 (e.g., "tune" the spring). The nut 300 can be positioned on the spring 228, which increases the stiffness of the spring 228. Specifically, the nut 300 can be twisted (e.g., tightened) on the spring 228 to compress or load the spring 228 (e.g., toward the inner annular housing segment 202). Thus, the nut 300 can act as an adjustment device, such as adjusting the spring by pre-compression. In some examples, increasing the stiffness of the spring 228 can reduce the vibration frequency associated with at least one of the outer annular housing segment 204 or the inner annular housing segment 202. In some examples, the nut 300 surrounds the cylindrical body 214. For example, the nut 300 can be cylindrical such that the nut 300 surrounds the outer surface of the cylindrical body 214. As Figure 3A and 3B As shown in the example of , the nut 300 can be aligned with the longitudinal axis 230 of the cylindrical body 214 .

[0033] Figure 4 It is a combination Figures 2A-3B Detailed view of the capture mechanism 212 depicted. The example capture mechanism 212 includes the outer annular housing segment 204, the opening 206, the cylindrical body 214, the retainers 400, 402, the springs 404, 406, and the piston rings 408, 410. Figure 4In an example, the retainers 400 and 402 can be brackets, arms, handles, etc. For example, the retainer 400 (also referred to as the bracket 400) extends from the first wall 412 of the opening 206 toward the second wall 414 of the opening 206. In addition, the retainer 402 (also referred to as the bracket 402) extends from the second wall 414 toward the first wall 412 (e.g., the first wall 412 faces the second wall 414). In such an example, the cylindrical body 214 is compressively retained within the opening 206 via the brackets 400 and 402.

[0034] exist Figure 4 , spring 404 is positioned between bracket 400 and first wall 412. Example surface 416 of bracket 400 includes a cavity 418 shaped to accommodate spring 404. Example surface 416 faces first wall 412. Piston ring 408 separates spring 404 from first wall 412. As shown, cavity 418 is shaped to accommodate (e.g., at least partially surround) piston ring 408. Similarly, spring 406 is positioned between bracket 402 and second wall 414. Example surface 420 of bracket 402 includes a cavity 422 shaped to accommodate spring 406. Example surface 420 faces second wall 414. Piston ring 410 separates spring 406 from second wall 414. As shown, cavity 422 is shaped to accommodate piston ring 410.

[0035] In some examples, brackets 400, 402 include curved surfaces 424, 426 that contact sides 428, 430, respectively, of cylindrical body 214. For example, curved surface 424 of bracket 400 contacts (e.g., aligns with, follows the shape of, etc.) side 428 of cylindrical body 214. Side 428 of cylindrical body 214 faces first wall 412. Similarly, curved surface 426 of bracket 402 contacts (e.g., aligns with, follows the shape of, etc.) side 430 of cylindrical body 214. Side 430 of cylindrical body 214 faces second wall 414. In some examples, brackets 400, 402 are two of a plurality of brackets (e.g., five brackets, seven brackets, etc.) surrounding the example outer surface of cylindrical body 214.

[0036] In other examples, the retainers 400, 402 are sleeves, sleeve portions, funnels, etc. For example, the retainers 400, 402 may form a sleeve portion that at least partially surrounds (e.g., surrounds, completely surrounds, etc.) the cylindrical body 214. Specifically, the sleeve portion may form an annular sleeve (e.g., a tapered sleeve, a tubular sleeve, a slip joint, etc.) having an inner annular surface (e.g., curved surface 424, curved surface 426, etc.) and an outer annular surface (e.g., surface 416, surface 420, etc.). The annular sleeve may taper in a direction from the outer annular shell segment 204 to the inner annular shell segment 202 (e.g., the outer annular shell segment 204 is tapered). Figures 2A-2B ).

[0037] like Figure 4 As shown, a portion of the inner annular surface contacts the cylindrical body 214. Furthermore, the outer annular surface can include cavities 418, 422 shaped to accommodate the springs 404, 406 and the piston rings 408, 410. Thus, the outer annular surface can contact the springs 404, 406. The spring 404, 406 or springs 404, 406 can be positioned between the first and second walls 412, 414 of the opening 206 and the outer annular surface. Thus, the springs 404, 406 and the sleeve portion can compressively retain the cylindrical body 214 within the opening 206.

[0038] Figure 5 Shown Figure 2B The example assembly 500 includes an inner annular compressor casing 502 (e.g., including a plurality of inner annular casing segments 202) surrounded by an outer annular compressor casing 504 (e.g., including a plurality of outer annular casing segments 204). The outer annular compressor casing 504 includes a plurality of openings 206. Figure 4 As shown, the openings 206 are spaced circumferentially along the outer annular compressor housing 504. The example inner annular compressor housing 502 includes a cylindrical body 214 attached to the outer surface 222 of the inner annular compressor housing 502. The example cylindrical body 214 extends radially from the outer surface 222 toward the outer annular compressor housing 504. In addition, the example cylindrical body 214 extends through the corresponding openings 206. Figure 2A-4 Similar to the example of , the cylindrical body 214 engages the walls of the opening 206 (eg, the first and second walls 412 , 414 , the retainers 400 , 402 , etc.) to resist movement between the outer and inner annular compressor casings 504 , 502 .

[0039] Figure 6 An example graph 600 is included that depicts an example compressor housing (e.g., Figures 2A-2B The vibration frequency of the compressor housing 200) and the spring stiffness (eg, Figures 2A-2BDuring operation, as the outer annular casing segment 204 and the inner annular casing segment 202 move toward each other (e.g., repeatedly cycle, vibrate, etc.), a vibration frequency associated with the compressor casing 200 can be detected. In some examples, the vibration frequency can be mitigated by adjusting the stiffness of the spring 228. For example, curves 602, 604 show how the compressor casing 200 can withstand higher vibration frequencies (e.g., 650 Hz) as the stiffness of the spring 228 increases. A first example axis 606 represents the frequency of the vibration (e.g., in a range from about 0 Hz to about 750 Hz). A second example axis 608 represents the stiffness of the spring 228 (e.g., in a range from log(0) to log(9)).

[0040] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a first surrounding member. For example, the first surrounding member may be Figure 2A and Figure 2B The inner annular shell segment 202 or Figure 5 The inner annular compressor housing 502 is realized.

[0041] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a second surrounding member. For example, the second surrounding member may be Figure 2A and Figure 2B The outer annular shell segment 204 or Figure 5 The outer annular compressor housing 504 is realized.

[0042] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a first access member. For example, the first access member is formed by Figure 2A and Figure 2B Opening 206 or Figure 5 The opening 206 is realized.

[0043] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a first support member. For example, the first support member may be Figure 2A and Figure 2B The outer annular surface 208 of the compressor housing 204 is realized.

[0044] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a second support member. For example, the second support member may be Figure 2A and Figure 2B The outer annular surface 210 of the compressor housing 204 is realized.

[0045] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a connecting member. For example, the connecting member may be Figure 2A and Figure 2B The cylindrical body 214 is implemented.

[0046] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a first retaining member. For example, the first retaining member may be Figure 2A and Figure 2B The spring 228 is implemented.

[0047] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes an alignment member. For example, the alignment member may be formed by Figure 2A and Figure 2B The longitudinal axis 230 is realized.

[0048] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a retaining member. For example, the retaining member may be Figure 2A and Figure 2B The seat 220 is realized.

[0049] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a third support member. For example, the third support member may be Figure 2A and Figure 2B The surface 222 of the inner annular shell segment 202 is realized.

[0050] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a damping member. For example, the damping member may be composed of Figure 2A and Figure 2B The damper 224 is implemented.

[0051] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a first fixing member. For example, the first fixing member may be Figure 4 The bracket 400 is implemented.

[0052] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a second fixing member. For example, the second fixing member may be Figure 4 The bracket 402 is implemented.

[0053] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a fourth support member. For example, the fourth support member may be Figure 4 The first wall 412 of the opening 206 is realized.

[0054] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a fifth support member. For example, the fifth support member may be formed by Figure 4 The second wall 414 of the opening 206 is realized.

[0055] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a second retaining member for retaining the cylindrical body 214. For example, the second retaining member may be Figure 4 Spring 404 implementation.

[0056] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a third retaining member for retaining the cylindrical body 214. For example, the third retaining member may be Figure 4 The spring 406 is implemented.

[0057] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a first sealing member. For example, the first sealing member may be Figure 4 The piston ring 408 is realized.

[0058] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a second sealing member. For example, the second sealing member may be Figure 4 The piston ring 410 is realized.

[0059] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a sixth support member. For example, the sixth support member may be Figure 4 The surface 416 of the bracket 400 is realized.

[0060] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a seventh support member. For example, the seventh support member may be Figure 4 The surface 420 of the bracket 402 is realized.

[0061] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2BThe compressor housing 200 includes a second access member. For example, the second access member may be Figure 4 The cavity 418 in the bracket 400 is realized.

[0062] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a third access member. For example, the third access member may be Figure 4 The cavity 422 in the bracket 402 is realized.

[0063] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a first curved support member. For example, the first curved support member may be composed of Figure 4 This is achieved by the curved surface 424 of the bracket 400.

[0064] In some examples, Figure 2A and Figure 2B The compressor housing 200 includes a second curved support member. For example, the second curved support member may be composed of Figure 4 This is achieved by the curved surface 426 of the bracket 402.

[0065] From the foregoing, it can be appreciated that exemplary systems, apparatus, articles, and methods have been disclosed that mitigate the effects of vibrations caused, for example, by friction between rotor blades and a compressor casing. Such friction may also result in blade tip loss, thereby opening a gap between the compressor casing and the rotor blades. The disclosed examples reduce or eliminate vibrations between an inner annular compressor casing segment and an outer annular compressor casing segment. For example, the disclosed examples provide radial stiffness to the annular compressor casing segment to counteract forces generated during operation due to vibrations. Thus, the disclosed examples enable the compressor casing to withstand relatively high frequency modes (e.g., 650 Hz) with increased radial stiffness. Furthermore, the disclosed examples maintain a space (e.g., a gap, clearance, etc.) between the inner annular compressor casing and the adjacent rotor blade tips. The disclosed examples improve the compression efficiency of an aircraft engine compressor by mitigating vibrations or ensuring a clearance between the rotor blade tips and the compressor casing. For example, the disclosed examples improve the SFC of an example aircraft engine by mitigating these vibrations.

[0066] Further aspects of the disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses.

[0067] A compressor casing comprises: a first annular casing segment; a second annular casing segment, the second annular casing segment surrounding the first annular casing segment, the second annular casing segment defining an opening through a first surface and a second surface of the second annular casing segment, the first surface and the second surface being opposite to each other, the first surface facing the first annular casing segment; a cylindrical body, the cylindrical body extending between the first annular casing segment and the second annular casing segment, the first end of the cylindrical body being attached to the first annular casing segment, the second end of the cylindrical body being positioned within the opening of the second annular casing segment, the second end of the cylindrical body being compressively retained within the opening; and a spring surrounding the cylindrical body, the spring being aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical body, the spring being positioned between the first annular casing segment and the second annular casing segment, the spring resisting movement between the first annular casing segment and the second annular casing segment.

[0068] A compressor housing according to any preceding clause, further comprising a seat positioned on a surface of the first annular housing segment facing the first surface of the second annular housing segment, the seat being fitted to receive the first end of the cylindrical body.

[0069] A compressor housing according to any preceding clause, further comprising a damper separating the first end of the cylindrical body from the seat.

[0070] A compressor housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the spring surrounds the first portion of the cylindrical body, the spring is positioned between the seat and the second portion of the cylindrical body, the second portion of the cylindrical body being positioned closer to the second annular housing segment than the first portion of the cylindrical body is to the second annular housing segment, the spring engaging the seat and the second portion of the cylindrical body to resist radial movement between the first annular housing segment and the second annular housing segment.

[0071] The compressor housing according to any of the preceding items further comprises: a first bracket extending from the first wall of the opening toward the second wall of the opening; and a second bracket extending from the second wall toward the first wall, the cylindrical body being compressively held by the first bracket and the second bracket.

[0072] A compressor housing according to any preceding clause, wherein the spring is a first spring, the compressor housing further comprising a second spring positioned between the first bracket and the first wall and a third spring positioned between the second bracket and the second wall.

[0073] The compressor housing according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a first piston ring separating the second spring from the first wall and a second piston ring separating the third spring from the second wall.

[0074] A compressor housing according to any of the preceding items, wherein the surface of the first bracket faces the first wall and the surface of the second bracket faces the second wall, the surface of the first bracket has a first cavity, the first cavity is formed to accommodate the second spring and the first piston ring, and the surface of the second bracket has a second cavity, the second cavity is formed to accommodate the third spring and the second piston ring.

[0075] A compressor housing according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first bracket includes a first curved surface in contact with a first side of the cylindrical body, and the second bracket includes a second curved surface in contact with a second side of the cylindrical body, the first side faces the first wall of the opening, and the second side faces the second wall of the opening.

[0076] A compressor housing according to any preceding clause, wherein the first bracket and the second bracket are included in a plurality of brackets, the plurality of brackets surrounding the outer surface of the cylindrical body.

[0077] A compressor housing includes: a first housing segment; a second housing segment radially spaced apart from the first housing segment, the second housing segment defining a cavity extending through the second housing segment; an elongated member connecting the first housing segment to the second housing segment, a first end of the elongated member fixedly coupled to the first housing segment, a second end of the elongated member extending through the cavity of the second housing segment; and a coil spring positioned around a portion of the elongated member, a portion of the elongated member positioned between the first housing segment and the second housing segment, the coil spring engaging the elongated member to separate the first housing segment from the second housing segment.

[0078] A compressor housing according to any preceding clause, further comprising a seat positioned on a surface of the first housing segment, the surface of the first housing segment facing the second housing segment, the seat being shaped to receive an end of the elongate member.

[0079] A compressor housing according to any preceding clause, further comprising a damper separating the end of the elongate member from the seat.

[0080] A compressor housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the portion of the elongated member is the first portion, the coil spring is positioned between the seat and the second portion of the elongated member, the second portion of the elongated member being positioned closer to the second housing segment than the first portion of the elongated member is to the second housing segment, the coil spring engaging the seat and the second portion of the elongated member to resist radial movement between the first housing segment and the second housing segment.

[0081] A compressor housing according to any preceding clause, further comprising a sleeve portion positioned in the cavity, the sleeve portion at least partially surrounding the elongate member, the sleeve portion retaining the elongate member in the cavity.

[0082] A compressor housing according to any of the preceding items, wherein the coil spring is a first spring, the compressor housing further comprising: a second spring positioned between the first wall of the cavity and the sleeve portion; and a third spring positioned between the second wall of the cavity and the sleeve portion, the second wall facing the first wall, the elongated member being compressively held by the sleeve portion and the second and third springs.

[0083] A compressor housing according to any preceding clause, wherein the sleeve portion is an annular sleeve having an inner annular surface and an outer annular surface, a portion of the inner annular surface being in contact with the elongated member, and the outer annular surface being in contact with the second spring and the third spring.

[0084] A compressor housing according to any preceding clause, wherein the cavity is a first cavity, wherein the outer annular surface comprises a second cavity and a third cavity, the wall of the second cavity partially surrounding the second spring and the wall of the third cavity surrounding the third spring.

[0085] The compressor housing according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a first piston ring separating the second spring from the first wall of the first cavity and a second piston ring separating the third spring from the second wall of the first cavity.

[0086] An apparatus comprising: an outer annular compressor housing defining openings extending through the outer annular compressor housing, the openings being spaced circumferentially along the outer annular compressor housing; and an inner annular compressor housing surrounded by the outer annular compressor housing, the inner annular compressor housing having elongated bolts attached to an outer surface of the inner annular compressor housing, the outer surface facing the outer annular compressor housing, the elongated bolts extending radially away from the outer surface toward the outer annular compressor housing, the elongated bolts extending through corresponding ones of the openings, the elongated bolts engaging with walls of the openings to resist movement between the outer annular compressor housing and the inner annular compressor housing.

[0087] A compressor housing comprises: a first surround member; a second surround member, the second surround member surrounding the first surround member, the second surround member including an access member, the access member extending through a first support member and a second support member of the second surround member, the first support member and the second support member being opposite to each other, the first support member facing the first surround member; a connecting member extending between the first surround member and the second surround member, the first end of the connecting member being attached to the first surround member, the second end of the connecting member being positioned within the access member of the second surround member, the second end of the connecting member being compressively retained within the access member; and a retaining member surrounding the connecting member, the retaining member being aligned with an alignment member of the connecting member, the retaining member being positioned between the first surround member and the second surround member, the retaining member resisting movement between the first surround member and the second surround member.

[0088] The compressor housing according to any of the preceding items further comprises a receiving member positioned on the third support member of the first surround member, a surface of the first surround member facing the first support member of the second surround member, and the receiving member is assembled to receive the first end of the connecting member.

[0089] The compressor housing according to any one of the preceding items, further comprising a damping member separating the first end of the connecting member from the accommodating member.

[0090] A compressor housing according to any of the preceding items, wherein a retaining member surrounds a first portion of the connecting member, the retaining member is positioned between the containing member and a second portion of the connecting member, the second portion of the connecting member is positioned closer to the second surrounding member than the first portion of the connecting member is to the second surrounding member, and the retaining member engages with the containing member and the second portion of the connecting member to resist radial movement between the first surrounding member and the second surrounding member.

[0091] The compressor housing according to any of the preceding items further includes a first fixing member, which extends from the fourth support member of the access member toward the fifth support member of the access member, and a second fixing member, which extends from the fifth support member toward the fourth support member, and the connecting member is compressively held by the first fixing member and the second fixing member.

[0092] The compressor housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the retaining member is a first retaining member, further comprising a second retaining member positioned between the first fixing member and the fourth support member, and a third retaining member positioned between the second fixing member and the fifth support member.

[0093] The compressor housing according to any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a first sealing member separating the second retaining member from the fourth support member, and a second sealing member separating the third retaining member from the fifth support member.

[0094] A compressor housing according to any of the preceding items, wherein the access member is a first access member, wherein the sixth support member of the first fixed member faces the fourth support member, and the seventh support member of the second fixed member faces the fifth support member, the sixth support member of the first fixed member has a second access member, the second access member is formed to accommodate the second retaining member and the first sealing member, and the seventh support member of the second fixed member has a third access member, and the third access member is formed to accommodate the third retaining member and the second sealing member.

[0095] A compressor housing according to any of the preceding items, wherein the first fixing member includes a first curved support member in contact with a first side of the connecting member, the second fixing member includes a second curved support member in contact with a second side of the connecting member, a fourth support member whose first side faces the access member, and a fifth support member whose second side faces the access member.

[0096] The compressor housing according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first fixing member and the second fixing member are included in a plurality of fixing members, the plurality of fixing members surrounding the connecting member.

[0097] The following claims are hereby incorporated by reference into this detailed description. Although certain example systems, devices, articles, and methods have been disclosed herein, the scope of coverage of this patent is not limited thereto. On the contrary, this patent covers all systems, devices, articles, and methods that fully fall within the scope of the claims of this patent.

Claims

1. A compressor housing, characterized in that: include: a first annular housing segment; a second annular housing segment, the second annular housing segment surrounding the first annular housing segment, the second annular housing segment defining an opening through a first surface and a second surface of the second annular housing segment, the first surface and the second surface opposing each other, the first surface facing the first annular housing segment; a cylindrical body extending between the first annular housing segment and the second annular housing segment, a first end of the cylindrical body being attached to the first annular housing segment, a second end of the cylindrical body being positioned within the opening of the second annular housing segment, the second end of the cylindrical body being compressively retained within the opening; as well as A spring surrounds the cylindrical body, the spring being aligned with a longitudinal axis of the cylindrical body, the spring being positioned between the first and second annular housing segments, the spring resisting movement between the first and second annular housing segments.

2. The compressor housing according to claim 1, wherein Further included is a seat positioned on a surface of the first annular housing segment, the surface of the first annular housing segment facing the first surface of the second annular housing segment, the seat being fitted to receive the first end of the cylindrical body.

3. The compressor housing according to claim 2, characterized in that Further included is a damper separating the first end of the cylindrical body from the seat.

4. The compressor housing according to claim 2, wherein: wherein the spring surrounds a first portion of the cylindrical body, the spring is positioned between the seat and a second portion of the cylindrical body, the second portion of the cylindrical body being positioned closer to the second annular housing segment than the first portion of the cylindrical body is to the second annular housing segment, the spring engaging the seat and the second portion of the cylindrical body to resist radial movement between the first and second annular housing segments.

5. The compressor housing according to claim 1, wherein Further including: a first bracket extending from the first wall of the opening toward the second wall of the opening; as well as A second bracket extends from the second wall toward the first wall, the cylindrical body being compressively held by the first bracket and the second bracket.

6. The compressor housing according to claim 5, characterized in that Wherein the spring is a first spring, the compressor housing further includes a second spring positioned between the first bracket and the first wall and a third spring positioned between the second bracket and the second wall.

7. The compressor housing according to claim 6, characterized in that Further included is a first piston ring separating the second spring from the first wall and a second piston ring separating the third spring from the second wall.

8. The compressor housing according to claim 7, characterized in that The surface of the first bracket faces the first wall, and the surface of the second bracket faces the second wall, the surface of the first bracket has a first cavity, and the first cavity is formed to accommodate the second spring and the first piston ring, and the surface of the second bracket has a second cavity, and the second cavity is formed to accommodate the third spring and the second piston ring.

9. The compressor housing according to claim 5, wherein: The first bracket includes a first curved surface in contact with a first side of the cylindrical body, and the second bracket includes a second curved surface in contact with a second side of the cylindrical body, the first side faces the first wall of the opening, and the second side faces the second wall of the opening.

10. The compressor housing according to claim 5, wherein The first bracket and the second bracket are included in a plurality of brackets, and the plurality of brackets surround the outer surface of the cylindrical body.

Images