Multi-channel fluid transfer device including rings that help define the inner surface of the peripheral portion

Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus (10) for conveying a plurality of fluid passages, the apparatus comprising: a central portion (20); a peripheral portion (22) that rotates about the central portion; and a conveying chamber (24A to 24C) between the central portion and the peripheral portion. The central portion defines first fluid paths (FP1A to FP1C) that connect fluid inlets (14A to 14C) to the conveying chamber. The peripheral portion (22) defines second fluid paths (FP2A to FP2C) that connect fluid outlets (16A to 16C) to the conveying chamber. The peripheral portion comprises a receiving bushing (DR) and at least two rings (70A, 70B) that are tightly mounted in the receiving bushing (DR) and each of which defines, together with the receiving bushing (DR), at least some of the second fluid paths (FP2A to FP2C).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of fluid transport devices designed to transport multiple fluid paths from a fixed reference frame to a rotating reference frame, or more generally, between two reference frames rotating relative to each other. Such reference frames are actually defined by components or assemblies of components.

[0002] In a specific application example in the field of turbines intended for use in propulsion of aircraft, a fixed frame of reference may be defined by the stator of such a turbine, while a rotating frame of reference may be defined by the rotor of such a turbine. In such applications, the fluid is, for example, oil or another fluid intended for hydraulic control of actuators. In a particular application, the device discussed is of the type commonly referred to as an OTB (from the English term "oil-transmitted bearing"), and is therefore intended to provide jacks for controlling the pitch setting of the blades of one or more propellers, as well as blade safety actuators. Background Technology

[0003] Multiplexed fluid transfer devices located between two relatively rotating reference frames, such as those designed to control actuators within turbines intended for propulsion of aircraft, are typically large and heavy, detrimental to the overall performance of the turbines and negatively impacting climate change.

[0004] Therefore, an improved multi-channel fluid transfer device is needed.

[0005] This invention is the result of technical research conducted by the applicant and aims to significantly improve the performance of aircraft, thereby contributing to reducing the environmental impact of aircraft. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the present invention proposes an apparatus for conveying multiple fluid paths, the apparatus comprising: - The central component exhibits an outer surface with a geometry that rotates about an axis; - Peripheral components, which exhibit an inner surface having a geometry that rotates about an axis, are arranged around the outer surface of the central component, thus having the ability to rotate about an axis relative to the outer surface of the central component; - A transfer chamber, defined between the outer surface of the central component and the inner surface of the peripheral components. in: - The central component defines a first fluid path, which passes through the outer surface to connect the fluid inlet of the device to the transfer chamber; - The peripheral components define a second fluid path, which passes through the inner surface to connect the fluid outlet of the device to the transfer chamber.

[0007] According to the present invention, the peripheral components include: - A receiving bushing, the receiving bushing defining an aperture extending along an axis and including receiving fluid paths leading to the aperture, and each receiving fluid path constituting part of a corresponding second fluid path; and - At least two rings, each having its own outer surface and its own inner surface, the outer surface being press-fitted into a hole, the inner surface forming a corresponding portion of the inner surface of the peripheral component.

[0008] In addition, each ring includes a fluid passage having an inner end and an outer end. The inner end opens through the inner surface of the ring to one of the corresponding transfer chambers, and the outer end opens through the outer surface of the ring to communicate with one of the corresponding receiving fluid paths, thus forming another part of one of the corresponding second fluid paths.

[0009] Using such a ring to partially define the inner surface of the outer component facilitates grinding operations on the inner surface and / or the application of a protective coating on the inner surface, which can typically be machined into multiple segments that can be machined independently of each other.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, each ring in the ring has a recessed side surface.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the inner surface of each ring defines two sealing strips, which are axially located on both sides of the fluid passage of the ring under consideration.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the inner surface of each ring has an annular groove between its two sealing bands, and the corresponding fluid passage leads to the annular groove.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the receiving bushing has an annular rib that extends and protrudes into the hole.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the two rings in the ring each have their side surfaces pressed against the two opposite side surfaces of the annular rib, thereby forming another part of the inner surface of the peripheral component from the inner end surface of the annular rib.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the peripheral component includes a compressible annular sealing gasket, which is inserted between the side of the annular rib and the corresponding side of the two rings.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, one of the receiving fluid paths, in addition to the receiving fluid path communicating with the fluid passage of the ring, is opened through the inner end surface of the rib.

[0017] The present invention also relates to a turbine comprising at least one device of the type described above, and including a stator integral with one of the central and peripheral components of the device, and a rotor integral with the other of the central and peripheral components of the device.

[0018] The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing an apparatus of the type described above, the method comprising at least steps A and B: - A) Provide the central component and peripheral components; then - B) Install peripheral components around the central component so that the two components can rotate relative to each other, and place the first fluid path and the second fluid path in pairs for communication.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, step A includes step A2, which includes steps A2a, A2b, and A2d: - A2a) Provides receiving bushings and rings; - A2b) Grind the inner surface of each ring in the ring according to the geometry of the outer surface of the central component; then - A2d) The ring is installed in the hole with an interference fit, such that the inner surface of each ring in the ring helps to form the inner surface of the outer component.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, step A2 includes step A2c, which is located between steps A2b and A2d, and step A2c applies a protective coating to the inner surface of each ring in the ring by spraying.

[0021] The present invention also relates to a method of operating a device of the type described above, the method comprising: - Fluid is selectively supplied to the first fluid path through the fluid inlet of the device; - To allow fluid to flow in a first fluid path all the way to the transfer chamber, which includes allowing fluid to flow in the fluid channel and in the branch passage; - Allow the fluid to exit the transfer chamber and flow through the second fluid path until it reaches the fluid outlet of the device. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The invention will be better understood by reading the following description, which is given by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, and other details, advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from them, in which: [ Figure 1 [Illustration] is a schematic diagram of an axial cross-section of a device for conveying multiple fluid paths according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; [ Figure 2 ]yes Figure 1A schematic perspective view of the central component of the device; [ Figure 3A ]yes Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the axial section of the central component; [ Figure 3B ] is along Figure 3A Plane III B -III B Received Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the transverse cross-section of the central component; [ Figure 4 ]yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the axial cross-section of the peripheral components of the device; [ Figure 5 ]yes Figure 1 Schematic perspective view and axial section of the peripheral components and bearings of the device; [ Figure 6 ]yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the axial cross-section of the sleeve of the peripheral component of the device; [ Figure 7 ] is included Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the axial cross-section of the transmission bushing of the sleeve and the ring of the outer components; [ Figure 8 ]yes Figure 4 A schematic perspective view and axial section of the protective cover of the outer components; [ Figure 9 ] is included Figure 6 sleeve and Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the axial cross-section of the receiving bushing of the protective cover; [ Figure 10 ] is such as Figure 1 A flowchart of a method for manufacturing a device such as a device; [ Figure 10A [This is a schematic diagram of the axial cross-section of the ring of the outer component, showing...] Figure 10 The steps of the manufacturing method; [ Figure 10B ] is similar to Figure 10A The view shows Figure 10 Another step in the manufacturing process; [ Figure 10C ] is similar to Figure 6 The view shows Figure 10 The steps of the manufacturing method; [ Figure 10D ] is similar to Figure 8 The view shows Figure 10 The steps of the manufacturing method; [ Figure 11 ] is similar to Figure 1 The view shows the operation of the device; [ Figure 12 ] includes, for example Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the axial section of a turbine for devices such as [instruments / devices]. [ Figure 13 ] includes, for example Figure 1 A more detailed schematic diagram of the axial section of an example turbine for a device such as a motor.

[0023] In all these figures, the same reference numerals may denote the same or similar elements. Detailed Implementation

[0024] I. Overview Figure 1 A device 10 is shown, which is designed to transmit multiple fluid paths between two reference frames rotating relative to each other, for example, between a turbine stator defining a fixed reference frame and a turbine rotor defining a rotating reference frame about axis 8. In the described example, the number of fluid paths is three, but the principles described below certainly apply regardless of the number of fluid paths.

[0025] In this description, the axial direction X is the direction of axis 8. The radial direction R at each point is orthogonal to and passes through axis 8, and the positive radial or circumferential direction C at each point is orthogonal to both the radial direction R and axis 8. The transverse plane is a plane orthogonal to axis 8. Unless otherwise specified, the terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the relative proximity and relative distance of an element relative to axis 8, respectively.

[0026] For example, the stator includes fluid inlets 14A to 14C intended to be connected to the device. Figure 2 The three-dimensional fluid supply plate 12 ( Figure 1 The rotor includes fluid outlets 16A to 16C designed to be connected to the device. Figure 5 The fluid receiving device (not shown) is described herein in the form of a fluid inlet through device 10 to a fluid outlet. While for convenience the description herein provides a fluid flow direction from the fluid inlet through device 10 to the fluid outlet, the opposite flow direction is possible without departing from the scope of the invention. In this regard, the terms “inlet” and “outlet” should be considered synonymous with “path orifice” or “fluid port” throughout this application.

[0027] Still referencing Figure 1 The device 10 typically includes a central component 20 (also independently of...) Figure 2 , Figure 3A and Figure 3B (visible in the middle) and peripheral components 22 (also independently in Figure 4 and Figure 5(As can be seen in the image), the peripheral component 22 is arranged around the central component 20, so that the peripheral component 22 has the ability to rotate about the axis 8 relative to the central component 20.

[0028] For example, the central component 20 is intended to be integrated with the stator, while the peripheral component 22 is intended to be integrated with the rotor, for example. In other application examples, the roles of the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22 can be reversed, so that the central component is integrated with the rotor, while the peripheral component is integrated with the stator.

[0029] The central component 20 has an outer surface 20A, which has a geometry that rotates about axis 8, preferably a cylindrical shape. The peripheral component 22 has an inner surface 22A, which also has a geometry that rotates about axis 8. The inner surface 22A is arranged around the outer surface 20A of the central component 20. Preferably, the shape of the inner surface 22A is generally similar to that of the outer surface 20A, with at most a transformation of similarity. These two surfaces can be further distinguished by including different orifices and annular grooves, as will become clearer below. The inner surface 22A of the peripheral component 22 can be formed by multiple components belonging to the peripheral component 22, as will become clearer below.

[0030] Annular space 23 ( Figure 1 It is defined between the outer surface 20A of the central component 20 and the inner surface 22A of the peripheral component 22.

[0031] Generally, the annular space 23 includes axially alternating first and second annular regions 26A to 26D. The first annular region defines transfer chambers 24A to 24C, and the second annular regions 26A to 26D have a restricted lateral cross-section compared to the transfer chambers 24A to 24C, to separate the transfer chambers 24A to 24C from each other and from the outside of the annular space 23. Therefore, the second annular regions 26B and 26C are arranged between any pair of consecutive transfer chambers 24A and 24B and 24B and 24C, and the second annular regions 26A and 26D are respectively arranged at two opposite axial ends of the annular space 23. With the relatively restricted lateral cross-section of the second annular regions 26A to 26D, the function of the second annular regions 26A to 26D is to restrict and control fluid leakage from the transfer chambers 24A to 24C to between the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22.

[0032] For each fluid path to be conveyed, the central component 20 includes a fluid path in fluid communication with the corresponding fluid path within the peripheral component 22, such that fluid for the considered path can flow from the corresponding fluid inlet 14A to 14C, which is integral with the central component. Figure 1 and Figure 2) flows to the corresponding fluid outlets 16A to 16C, which are integrated with the peripheral components. Figure 1 and Figure 4 Furthermore, by means of annular transfer chambers 24A to 24C defined between the outer surface 20A of the central component 20 and the inner surface 22A of the peripheral component 22, Figure 1 ), to realize the fluid path of the central component 20 (hereinafter referred to as the first fluid path and marked FP1A to FP1C ( Figure 3A The fluid paths of peripheral components 22 (hereinafter referred to as the second fluid paths and marked FP2A to FP2C) and peripheral components 22 Figure 4 The paired connections between these fluid paths will become clearer in the following text. Thus, each of the first fluid paths FP1A to FP1C connects the corresponding fluid inlets 14A to 14C to the corresponding transfer chambers 24A to 24C, while each of the corresponding second fluid paths FP2A to FP2C connects the corresponding transfer chambers 24A to 24C to the corresponding fluid outlets 16A to 16C.

[0033] Preferably, fluid inlets 14A to 14C are arranged at the longitudinal ends of the device on the first axial side S1, while fluid outlets 16A to 16C are preferably arranged at the longitudinal ends of the device on the opposite second axial side S2. In other embodiments, the fluid inlets and fluid outlets may be arranged on the same side.

[0034] II. Central Components Central component 20 ( Figures 1 to 3B The device includes a main part 30, a connecting part 32, and a journal 34. The main part 30 defines the aforementioned outer surface 20A. The connecting part 32 is located at one end of the central part 20 on the first axial side S1, and the journal 34 is located at the other end of the central part 20 on the second axial side S2. For example, the journal 34 is separated from the outer surface 20A by a shoulder 35A, and the outer surface 20A is separated from the connecting part 32 by a shoulder 35B.

[0035] To define the first fluid paths FP1A to FP1C, the main portion 30 typically includes corresponding fluid channels 36A to 36C, which are respectively connected to fluid inlets 14A to 14C on the first axial side S1. For each fluid channel 36A to 36C, the main portion 30 includes at least one branch passage 38A to 38C, which is connected to the fluid channel 36A to 36C on the second axial side S2 and opens through an outer surface 20A.

[0036] Fluid channels 36A to 36C are concentric channels extending along axis 8. The aforementioned outer surface 20A surrounds all of these fluid channels 36A to 36C.

[0037] Therefore, for example, the main part 30 includes a first channel 36A, a second channel 36B, and a third channel 36C. The first channel 36A has a circular cross-section (i.e., disc-shaped) centered relative to the axis 8, the second channel 36B has an annular cross-section extending around the first channel 36A, and the third channel 36C also has an annular cross-section extending around the second channel 36B. Figure 3B ).

[0038] On the journal 34 side, i.e. on the second axial side S2, channels 36A to 36C have staggered ends 39A to 39C along axis 8, such that the farther the channel is from axis 8, the less it extends along the direction of the second axial side S2 (the shorter the channel, depending on the situation). Therefore, the first channel 36A is the channel that extends the farthest toward journal 34, while the third channel 36C is the channel that extends the least toward journal 34.

[0039] In the preferred example shown, for each fluid channel 36A to 36C, the main portion 30 includes a corresponding series of branch passages 38A to 38C, each branch passage 38A to 38C having an inner end connected to the fluid channel 36A to 36C under consideration and an outer end opening through the outer surface 20A. Thus, each series of branch passages 38A to 38C originates from the corresponding channel 36A to 36C.

[0040] For this purpose, a first series of branch passages 38A, connecting the outer surface 20A to the first channel 36A, are arranged along the direction of the journal 34 beyond the second channel 36B. Similarly, a second series of branch passages 38B, connecting the outer surface 20A to the second channel 36B, are arranged along the direction of the journal 34 beyond the third channel 36C. More generally, for each channel 36A to 36C, the branch passage connected thereto extends along the direction of the second axial side S2 beyond any other channel formed around the channel under consideration.

[0041] For example, each series of branch paths 38A to 38C is arranged in a ring-shaped arrangement of branch paths evenly distributed around axis 8. Preferably, each branch path 38A to 38C extends along the radial direction R.

[0042] Connection portion 32 includes fluid connection devices 40A to 40C ( Figure 2 Fluid connection devices 40A to 40C are each dedicated to different fluid paths and have their own first ends (where two first ends 42A and 42B are located at...). Figure 3A (visible in the middle) and their respective second ends ( Figure 2The first end leads to channels 36A to 36C respectively, and the second end defines the fluid inlets 14A to 14C of the device and is intended to be connected to the fluid supply plate 12. Figure 1 The corresponding connecting device on the fluid supply plate 12. More specifically, for example, each second end forms a connecting plug, which is adapted to connect to a corresponding plug on the fluid supply plate 12.

[0043] The configuration of concentric fluid channels 36A to 36C associated with corresponding branch channels 38A to 38C makes it possible to particularly effectively limit the volume of the central component 20 and the number of components constituting the device 10.

[0044] Furthermore, the concentricity of the fluid channels 36A to 36C allows for the limitation of deformation of the central component 20 during operation due to the pressure of the fluid in the first fluid paths FP1A to FP1C. Therefore, the central component 20 can have a lightweight design without compromising the overall operation of the device 10.

[0045] As a variation, without departing from the present invention, the first fluid path FP1A to FP1C can be formed in a manner different from that described above.

[0046] III. Peripheral Components Peripheral component 22 (in) Figure 1 As can be seen in more detail... Figure 4 and Figure 5 (As can be seen in the image) It typically includes a sleeve 50 or body, rings 70A, 70B and a guard 90 that are rigidly assembled with each other.

[0047] III.A Sleeve refer to Figure 6 The sleeve 50 (shown separately from the rest of the device) has an inner surface and an outer surface 54. The inner surface has a rotational geometry, such as being substantially cylindrical, and defines a hole 52 extending along axis 8. The outer surface 54 also has a rotational geometry, such as being substantially cylindrical.

[0048] The hole includes two annular end portions 52A and 52B and an equally annular intermediate portion 52C located between these two end portions. The transverse cross-section of the intermediate portion 52C is smaller than that of the end portions 52A and 52B. Therefore, the inner surface defining the hole 52 exhibits two shoulders 52D and 52E, and the intermediate portion 52C is axially defined between the two shoulders 52D and 52E.

[0049] The sleeve 50 also includes an annular rib 56, which is formed by radially inwardly projecting into the intermediate portion 52C of the hole, thereby dividing the intermediate portion 52C into a first part 52C1 located on the second axial side S2 and a second part 52C2 located on the first axial side S1. The annular rib 56 has an inner end surface 58, which has a rotational geometry, such as a cylinder, that helps to define the intermediate portion 52C of the hole between the first part 52C1 and the second part 52C2.

[0050] The sleeve 50 has a threaded outer surface 60 at one of its axial ends (e.g., the axial end located on the first axial side S1) and a radial annular flange 62 at its opposite axial end.

[0051] To help define each of the second fluid paths FP2A to FP2C, the sleeve 50 includes at least one corresponding fluid passage 64 for each second fluid path, and preferably includes a series of such fluid passages 64 for each second fluid path. Each of these fluid passages 64 has an inner end and an outer end, the inner end opening through the inner surface of the sleeve 50 to the middle portion 52C of the hole, and the outer end opening through the outer surface 54 of the sleeve.

[0052] In the example shown, which involves a three-way fluid device, for example, the aforementioned fluid passages are distributed as a first series of fluid passages 64A of a first component 52C1 leading to the middle portion of the hole, a second series of fluid passages 64B opening through the inner end surface 58 of the annular rib 56, and a third series of fluid passages 64C of a second component 52C2 leading to the middle portion of the hole.

[0053] Specifically, the second series of fluid passages 64B leads to the transfer chamber 24B ( Figure 1 ).

[0054] III.B Ring Rings 70A and 70B (in Figure 1 It can be seen, and in more detail, in Figure 4 and Figure 5 (As can be seen in the image) For example, there are two of them, each with its own outer surface 72, which are press-fitted into the hole 52. In this example, they are press-fitted into the first part 52C1 and the second part 52C2 of the middle part 52C of the hole.

[0055] Rings 70A and 70B have their own inner surfaces 74, which, according to the terminology used in this description, form the corresponding portions of the inner surface 22A of the peripheral component.

[0056] In the example shown, rings 70A and 70B have their respective sides 75B and 75C ( Figure 4 and Figure 5 The sides 75B and 75C abut against the two opposite sides 56A and 56B of the annular rib 56, respectively. Therefore, the inner end surface 58 of the annular rib 56, which is axially inserted between the inner surfaces 74 of the ring, together with the inner surface 74 of the ring, defines the inner surface 22A of the peripheral component.

[0057] Typically, rings 70A and 70B are used to partially define the inner surface 22A of the outer component 22, facilitating grinding operations on the inner surface 22A and / or the deposition of a protective coating on it by dividing the inner surface 22A into multiple segments that can be machined independently of each other. In practice, each ring 70A and 70B has a smaller axial range than the total axial range of the inner surface 22A, allowing the use of certain grinding tools and tools designed for applying a protective coating (which may be unsuitable for machining the inner surface 22A as a whole due to its axial range) to machine the individually applied inner surface 74 of each ring 70A and 70B, and in the example shown, the inner end surface 58 of the annular rib 56. In the absence of rings, the larger inner diameter of the first component 52C1 and the second component 52C2 of the intermediate portion 52C of the hole 52 also facilitates access to the inner end surface 58 of the annular rib 56 compared to the inner diameter of the inner surface 22A.

[0058] Therefore, a particularly small gap can be achieved between surfaces 20A and 22A. As a result, a satisfactory seal can be achieved between the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22, even when the overlap length (i.e., the axial range of the annular space 23 defining these components) is relatively small compared to the overlap length required in devices without such an annulus. The reduced overlap length required to achieve a satisfactory seal provides, in particular, the advantages of weight and volume reduction associated with the device 10.

[0059] To help define some of the second fluid paths FP2A to FP2C, each ring 70A, 70B includes fluid passages 76A, 76B, each of which has an inner end 78 that opens through an inner surface 74 of the ring to a corresponding transfer chamber 24A, 24C. The inner surface 74 of each ring 70A, 70B defines two annular (e.g., cylindrical) sealing strips 79A, 79B, axially arranged on both sides of the fluid passages 76A, 76B of the ring under consideration. These sealing strips 79A, 79B are designed to extend a short distance from the outer surface 20A of the central component 20, thereby restricting axial fluid flow from the corresponding transfer chambers 24A, 24C. Figure 1 )leakage.

[0060] To define the transfer chambers 24A to 24C, the inner surfaces 74 of the rings 70A and 70B and the inner end surfaces 58 of the annular ribs 56 each form corresponding annular grooves 80A, 80B, and 80C. Figure 4 and Figure 5 The corresponding fluid passages 76A, 64B, and 76B lead to the corresponding annular grooves 80A, 80B, and 80C. Therefore, the annular grooves 80A and 80C of each ring are defined between the sealing bands 79A and 79B of the ring under consideration. As a variation or additionally, the transfer chambers 24A to 24C may be defined by annular grooves formed on the outer surface 20A of the central member 20.

[0061] Therefore, the aforementioned second annular regions 26A to 26D are externally defined by sealing strips 79A and 79B of each ring 70A and 70B, respectively.

[0062] A compressible annular sealing gasket 82 protrudes from a groove formed in the aforementioned sides 75B, 75C of each ring 70A, 70B along the direction of the annular rib 56 to abut against the sides 56A, 56B of the annular rib 56, thereby preventing fluid leakage between each ring 70A, 70B and the rib 56. As a variation or additionally, the grooves for the gasket 82 may be formed in the sides 56A, 56B of the rib 56, respectively.

[0063] Furthermore, each fluid passage 76A of ring 70A has an outer end 84, which opens through the outer surface 72 of ring 70A and faces the first series of fluid passages 64A of sleeve 50 (i.e., located at the same axial level as the series of fluid passages 64A). Similarly, each fluid passage 76B of ring 70B has an outer end 84, which opens through the outer surface 72 of ring 70B and faces the third series of fluid passages 64C of sleeve 50.

[0064] To allow fluid to flow between the passages 76A and 76B of the rings 70A and 70B and the corresponding passages 64A and 64C of the sleeve, the annular distribution cavities 86A and 86B are defined by grooves formed in the surface of the defining holes 52 of the sleeve 50, such that the aforementioned passages lead to these distribution cavities 86A and 86B. As a variation or additional, the distribution cavities 86A and 86B may be defined by grooves formed in the outer surface 72 of the rings 70A and 70B.

[0065] On the axial side opposite to the annular rib 56 and the corresponding distribution chambers 86A, 86B, compressible annular sealing gaskets 88A, 88B are inserted between each ring 70A, 70B and the sleeve 50 to restrict fluid leakage from the middle portion 52C of the orifice.

[0066] For example, each annular sealing gasket 88A, 88B protrudes from a groove formed in the outer surface 72 of each ring 70A, 70B to abut against the inner surface of the defining hole 52 of the sleeve 50. As a variation or additionally, such a groove may be formed in the inner surface of the sleeve 50 for each gasket 88A, 88B.

[0067] To best reduce the weight of the device, the opposite sides 75A, 75B and 75C, 75D of rings 70A, 70B have recesses 89. Therefore, the ring has, for example, axial half-sections and two annular axial heels, the axial half-sections forming radial intermediate portions in which corresponding fluid passages are formed, and each of the two annular axial heels extending from each radial end of the intermediate portion of the ring under consideration toward a first axial side and toward a second axial side, respectively.

[0068] As a variant, the number of rings can be greater than 2.

[0069] Furthermore, the sleeve 50 may be without the annular rib 56, in which case the entire inner surface 22A of the peripheral component may be defined by a ring.

[0070] In the terminology used in this description, the assembly consisting of sleeve 50 and rings 70A, 70B constitutes the transmission bushing DT (in... Figure 4 It can be seen in, and in Figure 7 (Seen separately from the rest of the device), and the outer surface 54 of the sleeve is called the bushing interface surface. Thus, the transfer bushing DT and the protective cover 90 together constitute the peripheral component 22. In addition, the passages 76A and 76B of the rings 70A and 70B, the passages 64A to 64C of the sleeve, and the distribution cavities 86A and 86B together constitute the fluid transfer path TFP-A to TFP-C ( Figure 7 ).

[0071] III.C Shield Shield 90 (in) Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 It can be seen in, and in Figure 8 (Seen separately from the device) has an inner surface 92A, which has a rotational geometry, such as a cylinder, or more generally, an inner surface 92A has a shape that is substantially complementary to the shape of the outer surface 54 of the sleeve 50. Hereinafter, the inner surface 92A is also referred to as the shield interface surface.

[0072] The shroud 90 is mounted around the sleeve 50 in a sliding fit, or more typically, around the transfer bushing DT in a sliding fit, such that the inner surface 92A of the shroud or the shroud interface surface surrounds the outer surface 54 of the sleeve or the bushing interface surface and is in close contact with the outer surface 54 of the sleeve or the bushing interface surface.

[0073] The shield 90 includes a fluid conduit, which, in the terms of this disclosure, defines a redirected fluid path from RFP-A to RFP-C. Figure 8 Each of the redirected fluid paths RFP-A to RFP-C forms part of the corresponding second fluid paths FP2A to FP2C within the shield 90. In the example shown, each redirected fluid path RFP-A to RFP-C is defined by corresponding pairs of fluid conduits 94A, 94B, and 94C with opposite diameters.

[0074] Each fluid conduit 94A, 94B, 94C has a first end 96A to 96C ( Figure 8 The first ends 96A to 96C open through the inner surface 92A of the cover, preferably facing the fluid passage 64 defined in the sleeve 50. Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The corresponding series of fluid passages 64A to 64C (i.e., located at the same axial level as the series of fluid passages).

[0075] In order to allow fluid to flow between the fluid passage 64 of the sleeve 50 and the fluid conduits 94A to 94C of the shroud 90, annular distribution cavities 98A to 98C are provided in the form of grooves formed in the outer surface 54 of the sleeve, such that the outer end of the fluid passage 64 and the first ends 96A to 96C of the fluid conduits 94A to 94C lead to these distribution cavities 98A to 98C. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As a variation or additional, a groove may be formed in the inner surface 92A of the cover to define dispensing cavities 98A to 98C.

[0076] For example, the sealing of the dispensing cavities 98A to 98C is ensured by means of a compressible annular sealing gasket 100, which is inserted between the outer surface 54 of the sleeve and the inner surface 92A of the shroud, axially positioned on both sides of each dispensing cavity 98A to 98C. To best limit the risk of damage to the gasket 100 during assembly and disassembly operations of the device, the outer surface 54 of the sleeve and the inner surface 92A of the shroud advantageously have a stepped shape, resulting in a slight decrease in diameter after each dispensing cavity 98A to 98C along the direction of travel from the second axial side S2 toward the first axial side S1.

[0077] For example, each annular sealing gasket 100 protrudes from a groove formed in the outer surface 54 of the sleeve 50 to abut against the inner surface 92A of the cover. As a variation or additionally, such a groove may be formed in the inner surface 92A of the cover for each gasket 100.

[0078] Furthermore, each fluid conduit 94A, 94B, 94C has a second end 102A to 102C opposite to the first ends 96A to 96C, and the second ends 102A to 102C are arranged at the axial end of the shroud 90, for example, on the second axial side. Figure 8 The second ends 102A to 102C of each catheter (in this example, each pair of catheters) define the corresponding fluid outlets 16A to 16C of the device 10.

[0079] For example, each fluid conduit 94A to 94C has an elbow shape ( Figure 8 Therefore, each conduit 94A to 94C has a radial portion 104A to 104C, which forms the aforementioned first ends 96A to 96C of the conduit at its inner end and connects to the axial portion 106A to 106C of the conduit at its outer end, the axial portion 106A to 106C of the conduit terminating at the second ends 102A to 102C of the conduit. The radial portions 104A to 104C of different pairs of conduits are axially staggered in the same manner as the series of fluid passages 64A to 64C of the sleeve 50. For example, the axial portions 106A to 106C of the conduit are defined within corresponding ribs 107A to 107C, which are formed by radially projecting outward from the outer surface 92B of the sheath and extending longitudinally.

[0080] Furthermore, the protective cover 90 is rigidly connected to the sleeve 50 by means of a radial annular flange 62 of the sleeve 50 located on the second axial side S2 and a nut 108 located on the first axial side S1. The nut 108 is screwed onto the threaded outer surface 60 of the sleeve 50 and abuts against the axial end 90A of the protective cover. Figure 4 and Figure 5 ).

[0081] In the example shown, the second end 102A of a pair of fluid conduits 94A is opened through a passage orifice formed in the radial annular flange 62 of the sleeve 50.

[0082] The peripheral component 22 is divided into a transfer bushing DT and a shroud 90, which facilitates drilling of the fluid transfer paths, and in this example, the fluid passages 64 of the sleeve 50. In practice, these fluid transfer paths (or passages 64) can be drilled radially through the bushing (in this example, through the sleeve 50) from the outside of the transfer bushing DT by placing a drilling tool facing the bushing interface surface 54, without subsequently sealing the radially outer ends of these fluid transfer paths (or passages 64), which are intended to connect to the conduits 94A to 94C of the shroud 90. Since the inner diameter of the shroud is larger than the inner diameter of the bore 52, this allows the radial drilling tool to pass through the inside of the shroud 90, thus easily creating these conduits, including easily creating the first ends 96A to 96C of these conduits, and, where applicable, easily creating the radial portions 104A to 104C of these conduits.

[0083] In the terminology used in this disclosure, the assembly consisting of sleeve 50 and shroud 90 constitutes receiving bushing DR (in Figure 4 It can be seen in, and in Figure 9 (Shown separately from the rest of the device). Therefore, the receiving bushing DR defines the orifice 52. Accordingly, the receiving bushing DR and rings 70A and 70B together constitute the peripheral component 22. Furthermore, the fluid passage 64 of the sleeve 50, the distribution chambers 98A to 98C, and the redirected fluid paths RFP-A to RFP-C (formed by the fluid conduits 94A, 94B, and 94C of the shroud 90) collectively define the receiving fluid paths RCFP-A to RCFP-C, which respectively correspond to the second fluid paths within the receiving bushing DR.

[0084] As a variation, the receiving bushing DR can be formed as a single piece. In other words, the device 10 may be without the cover 90, in which case the sleeve 50 (which then independently constitutes the receiving bushing) defines the entire receiving fluid path RCFP-A to RCFP-C, that is, the entire second fluid path except for those second fluid path components defined within the rings 70A, 70B.

[0085] IV. Connection between central components and peripheral components To connect the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22, and to simultaneously achieve rotational guidance of one of the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22 relative to the other, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 5The device 10 includes at least one bearing 110A, 110B, which is radially inserted between the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22 and housed in their respective housings 112A, 112B. The housings 112A, 112B are in fluid communication with the corresponding second annular regions 26A, 26D in the aforementioned second annular region of the annular space 23.

[0086] This arrangement allows the bearing to be lubricated by means of fluid leaking from the transfer chambers 24A to 24C, passing through the corresponding second annular regions 26A and 26D and entering the bearing housings 112A and 112B. The flow rate of this leakage is specifically determined by the transverse cross-section of the second annular regions 26A to 26D.

[0087] Therefore, the use of devices that spray or inject lubricating oil toward the bearing can be avoided, which has the particular advantage of correspondingly reducing the weight and size of the device 10, and where applicable, reducing the weight and size of the turbine on which the device 10 will be equipped.

[0088] In the example shown, there are two bearings 110A and 110B, which are axially arranged on both sides of the annular space 23, such that the housings 112A and 112B are axially adjacent to the second annular regions 26A and 26D, respectively. Specifically, the bearings 110A and 110B are arranged in the end portions 52A and 52B of the bore 52 of the sleeve 50, respectively.

[0089] Furthermore, for example, each bearing 110A, 110B is a rolling bearing, which includes inner rings 114A, 114B integral with the central component 20, outer rings 116A, 116B integral with the peripheral component 22, for example by means of an interference fit, and a row of rolling elements 118 inserted between the inner rings 114A, 114B and the outer rings 116A, 116B. The inner rings 114A, 114B and the outer rings 116A, 116B of each bearing define a region 120 of the housing 112A, 112B, which is in fluid communication with the corresponding second annular regions 26A, 26D and accommodates a row of rolling elements 118 in the region 120.

[0090] Advantageously, bearings 110A and 110B are angular contact bearings and are arranged in an "O" type configuration.

[0091] refer to Figure 1The bearing 110B located on the first axial side S1 is arranged such that the inner ring 114B of the bearing axially abuts against the shoulder 35B on the first axial side S1, and the shoulder 52E of the sleeve 50 axially abuts against the outer ring 116B of the bearing on the first axial side S1, wherein the shoulder 35B is formed at one end of the outer surface 20A of the center member 20 located on the first axial side S1.

[0092] The bearing 110A, located on the second axial side S2, is arranged such that its inner ring 114A is mounted on the journal 34 of the central component 20, and its outer ring 116A axially abuts against the shoulder 52D of the sleeve 50 along the direction of the first axial side S1. Furthermore, a nut 122 is screwed onto the journal 34 of the central component 20 to axially abut against the inner ring 114A along the direction of the first axial side S1. Advantageously, a washer 124 is inserted between the inner ring 114A and the shoulder 35A, wherein the shoulder 35A is located at the end of the outer surface 20A on the second axial side S2. Specifically, such a washer 124 can be machined or ground during the assembly operation of the device 10 to compensate for manufacturing tolerances of the various components of the device 10 along the axial direction and to ensure the determined axial preload of the bearings 110A, 110B.

[0093] Advantageously, a gap is maintained between each ring 70A, 70B and the adjacent bearings 110A, 110B, or more generally, a gap is maintained between the transmission bushing DT and each bearing 110A, 110B, so that fluid can flow from the annular space 23 into the housing 112A, 112B of each bearing.

[0094] As a variation, the device 10 may be without the bearing inserted between the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22. In this case, the rotational guidance of the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22 is provided by a device that is not part of the device 10. Such a device is typically one or more bearings inserted between the stator and the rotor, with the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22 being integral with the stator and the rotor, respectively.

[0095] V. Manufacturing Method refer to Figure 10 The manufacturing method of device 10 typically includes steps A and B: - A) Provide the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22; then - B) Install peripheral components 22 around the central component 20 such that the two components can rotate relative to each other and the first fluid path and the second fluid path are placed in pairs in communication.

[0096] Step A may include step A1, in which the center component 20 is manufactured by an additive manufacturing method (particularly a laser powder bed melting type additive manufacturing method) or by a casting method (particularly a lost-wax casting method) to achieve a soluble core to form the fluid channels of the center component 20.

[0097] Step A may include step A2, which consists of steps A2a, A2b, A2c, and A2d: - A2a) provides receiving bushing DR and rings 70A, 70B; - A2b) with the aid of grinding tool 125 ( Figure 10A ), and grind the inner surfaces 74 of each ring 70A, 70B according to the geometry of the outer surface 20A of the central component 20; then - A2c) Optionally, by means of spraying tool 126 ( Figure 10B The coating is applied by spraying, and a protective coating is applied to the inner surface 74 of each ring 70A, 70B. For example, the spraying tool 126 is configured to spray the fluid intended to form the coating onto the inner surface 74 at an incident angle of approximately 45 degrees; then - A2d) The rings 70A and 70B are installed in the hole 52 by an interference fit, such that the inner surface 74 of each ring 70A and 70B helps to form the inner surface 22A of the peripheral component 22.

[0098] The grinding of rings 70A and 70B before assembling them into the receiving bushing DR allows the use of precision tools, such that, in the exemplary embodiment, tolerances of less than approximately ±0.005 mm can be achieved with respect to the geometry of the inner surface 74 of the ring and therefore with respect to the geometry of the inner surface 22A of the peripheral component.

[0099] The coating applied in optional step A2c allows the inner surface 74 of each ring to be hardened to prevent it from being eroded during operation and to protect it in the event of accidental contact between the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22.

[0100] For example, for each ring, the coating in step A2c is applied from each side of the ring by means of a nozzle oriented at 45 degrees relative to the ring's axis, so as to obtain coating deposition on the entire inner surface 74 of each ring.

[0101] Instead of step A2, or in addition to step A2, step A may include step A3, which consists of steps A3a and A3b: - A3a) provides the transfer bushing DT and the shield 90; then - A3b) A cover 90 is installed around the transfer bushing DT such that the cover interface surface 92A surrounds the bushing interface surface 54 and is in close contact with the bushing interface surface 54.

[0102] For example, step A3a includes: on the one hand, placing a drilling tool 127 facing the bushing interface surface 54 ( Figure 10C The fluid passage 64 (or more generally, at least a portion of the fluid passages TFP1A to TFP1C) is drilled radially through the outside of the transfer bushing DT; on the other hand, the fluid conduits 94A to 94C are drilled within the shroud 90, including: drilling the first ends 96A to 96C of the conduits by means of a drilling tool 128 placed within the shroud 90, and, where applicable, drilling the radial portions 104A to 104C of the conduits; and by means of a drilling tool 129 placed facing the corresponding axial end of the shroud 90. Figure 10D To drill holes in the second ends 102A to 102C of the conduit, and, where applicable, to drill holes in the axial portions 106A to 106C of the conduit. Figure 10D ).

[0103] For example, step A3b includes bringing the cover against the radial annular flange 62 of the sleeve 50 on the second axial side, and then screwing the nut 108 onto the threaded outer surface 60 of the sleeve 50 on the first axial side S1, against the axial end 90A of the cover.

[0104] When performing both steps A2 and A3, the assembly of rings 70A and 70B on sleeve 50 and the assembly of shield 90 on sleeve 50 can be performed in any order.

[0105] Advantageously, step B includes inserting two bearings 110A, 110B between the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22 on both sides of the annular space 23.

[0106] More specifically, for example, step B successively includes steps B1, B2, B3, and B4: - B1) A bearing 110B is mounted around the outer surface 20A of the central component 20, such that the inner ring 114B of the bearing 110B axially abuts against the shoulder 35B of the central component on the first axial side S1. - B2) Place the peripheral component 22 around the central component 20 such that the shoulder 52E of the sleeve 50 axially abuts against the outer ring 116B of the bearing 110B on the first axial side S1. - B3) Another bearing 110A is mounted around the journal 34 of the central component, such that the outer ring 116A of the bearing 110A axially abuts against the shoulder 52D of the sleeve 50 in the direction of the first axial side S1. - B4) Install nut 122 on journal 34 of central component to preload the formed assembly on the one hand by two bearings 110A, 110B, and on the other hand by sleeve 50 and rings 70A, 70B, or more generally by peripheral component 22.

[0107] Advantageously, prior to step B4, the method includes determining a suitable size for the shim 124, then machining the shim 124 to said size, and finally inserting the shim 124 between the inner ring 114A of another bearing 110A and the shoulder 35A of the center member 20.

[0108] VI. Operating Procedures The operation methods of the above-mentioned types of devices typically include: - Fluid is selectively supplied to the first fluid path FP1A to FP1C through the fluid inlets 14A to 14C of the device; - Allow the fluid to flow in the first fluid path FP1A to FP1C, all the way to the transfer chambers 24A to 24C; - The fluid exits from the transfer chambers 24A to 24C and flows through the second fluid path FP2A to FP2C until it reaches the fluid outlets 16A to 16C of the device.

[0109] The flow of fluid in the first fluid path FP1A to FP1C includes the flow of fluid in fluid channels 36A to 36C, and the flow of fluid out of fluid channels 36A to 36C in branch paths 38A to 38C.

[0110] The flow of fluid in the second fluid path FP2A to FP2C includes the flow of fluid in the fluid passages 76A and 76B of the rings 70A and 70B, the flow in the fluid passage 64 of the sleeve 50, and the flow in the fluid conduits 94A, 94B, and 94C of the cover 90.

[0111] Where applicable, the method includes allowing a flow of fluid leaking from at least one of the transfer chambers 24A to 24C to circulate through corresponding second annular regions 26A, 26D into the housings 112A, 112B of each bearing 110A, 110B, thereby lubricating the bearings by means of the leaked fluid flow.

[0112] For example, Figure 11The device 10 is shown in a stage where fluid 130 is supplied only to fluid inlet 14A. Therefore, fluid 130 flows through the first channel 36A, then through the first series of branch passages 38A, and then through the transfer chamber 24A. The fluid continues to flow through the fluid passage 76A of the ring 70A, the passage 64A of the sleeve 50, and the conduit 94A of the shroud 90 until it leaves the device through the fluid outlet 16A. A small portion of the fluid 132 leaks from the transfer chamber 24A by flowing through the annular space 23 in the directions of the two axial sides S1 and S2 until the fluid reaches the housings 112A and 112B of each bearing 110A, 110B and lubricates each bearing.

[0113] VII. Turbine Figure 12 A turbine 210 is shown, which is, for example, a dual-flow, dual-spool turbofan engine for an aircraft. The turbine 210 typically includes a fan 212 designed to draw in an airflow F1, which is split downstream of the fan into a main flow F2 and a secondary flow F3. The main flow F2 flows in a main flow channel (hereinafter referred to as the main flow path PV), and the secondary flow F3 flows in a secondary flow channel (hereinafter referred to as the secondary flow path SV) arranged around the main flow path PV.

[0114] The turbine typically includes a low-pressure compressor 214, a high-pressure compressor 216, a combustion chamber 218, a high-pressure turbine 220, and a low-pressure turbine 222. The low-pressure compressor 214, the high-pressure compressor 216, the combustion chamber 218, the high-pressure turbine 220, and the low-pressure turbine 222 together define the main flow path PV.

[0115] In a known manner, the rotors of the high-pressure compressor and the high-pressure turbine are connected by a shaft called the "high-pressure shaft," while the rotors of the low-pressure compressor and the low-pressure turbine are connected by a shaft called the "low-pressure shaft." These rotors are rotatably mounted about the turbine's axis 228.

[0116] The turbine includes a device 10 of the type described above, for example, the axis of device 10 coincides with the axis 228 of turbine 210.

[0117] The turbine stator is integral with one of the central component 20 and the peripheral component 22 of the device (in this example, the central component 20). The turbine rotor is integral with the other component of the device (in this example, the peripheral component 22).

[0118] For example, in Figure 12The device 10, shown very schematically, is arranged such that the fluid outlets 16A to 16C of the device 10 are connected to the fluid chambers of the actuators carried by the aforementioned rotor, enabling control of those actuators. In particular, for example, the device is of the type commonly referred to as an OTB (“oil-transmitting bearing”) and is intended to provide jacks for controlling the pitch setting of one or more propeller blades, as well as blade safety actuators.

[0119] Figure 13 An example of such a turbine 400 is shown in more detail. The turbine 400 includes a gas generator 402, with a fan 403 mounted upstream of the gas generator 402. The gas generator 402 includes, from upstream to downstream, a low-pressure compressor 404, a high-pressure compressor 405, a combustion chamber 406, a high-pressure turbine 407, and a low-pressure turbine 408. The rotors of the low-pressure compressor 404 and the low-pressure turbine 408 are mechanically connected by a low-pressure shaft 409 to form a low-pressure mandrel. The rotors of the high-pressure compressor 405 and the high-pressure turbine 407 are mechanically connected by a high-pressure shaft 410 to form a high-pressure mandrel. The high-pressure mandrel is guided to rotate about a longitudinal axis by an upstream first rolling bearing 411 and a downstream second rolling bearing 412. The first bearing 411 is radially mounted between a compressor housing 413 and the upstream end of the high-pressure shaft 410. The compressor housing 413 is axially arranged between the low-pressure compressor 404 and the high-pressure compressor 405. A second bearing 412 is radially mounted between the turbine housing 414 and the downstream end of the high-pressure shaft 410. The turbine housing 414 is axially arranged between the high-pressure turbine 407 and the low-pressure turbine 408. The low-pressure spindle is guided by a third rolling bearing 415 and a fourth rolling bearing 416 (preferably, a double rolling bearing) and rotates about the turbine axis 428. The fourth rolling bearing 416 is radially mounted between the exhaust housing 417 and the downstream end of the low-pressure shaft 409. The exhaust housing 417 is located downstream of the low-pressure turbine 408. The third bearing 415 is radially mounted between the inlet housing 418 and the upstream end of the low-pressure shaft 409. The high-pressure shaft 410 extends at least partially around the low-pressure shaft 409, such that these shafts are coaxial.

[0120] In another configuration not shown, the low-pressure spindle may include a low-pressure compressor connected to the intermediate-pressure turbine, while a free-powered turbine is mounted downstream of the intermediate-pressure turbine and connected to a propeller described below via a power transmission shaft to drive the propeller to rotate.

[0121] Here, fan 403 is covered by fan housing 419, which carries the turbine nacelle (not visible in the figure) (where stator blades are mounted downstream of the fan).

[0122] During operation, fan 403 compresses the airflow F1 entering the turbine. Upstream of inlet housing 418, at an annular splitting lip 421 supported by inlet housing 418, airflow F1 is divided into primary airflow F2 and secondary airflow F3. Inlet housing 418 extends downstream through outer casing or inter-flow path housing 422. Primary airflow F2 flows through the main flow path PV passing through gas generator 402 and then exits gas generator 402 through a main nozzle (not visible in the figure). Secondary airflow F3 flows through the secondary flow path SV and then exits the secondary flow path SV through a secondary nozzle (not visible in the figure). The main flow path PV and secondary flow path SV are separated by inter-flow path housing 422.

[0123] Fan 403 includes fan blades 430 arranged in an annular row, extending radially around fan rotor 431, which is supported by a cylindrical fan shaft 432 centered on the turbine axis 428. Fan shaft 432 drives fan rotor 431 to rotate about axis 428. Fan shaft 432 itself is rotatably driven by a power transmission shaft via a power transmission mechanism. In this example, the power transmission shaft is a low-pressure shaft 409. Fan shaft 432 and low-pressure shaft 409 are coaxial. Alternatively, the power shaft could be the shaft of a free turbine supplied with gas by gas generator 402.

[0124] For example, the power transmission mechanism is a mechanical reducer 433, which is configured to reduce the rotational speed of the fan shaft 432 relative to the speed of the low-pressure shaft 409. Such a reducer, in particular, enables the arrangement of a large-diameter fan 403 to increase the turbine's bypass ratio.

[0125] The reducer 433 is formed by a gear train housed in a lubrication housing 435, in which the gear train is lubricated.

[0126] For example, the reducer 433 is formed by a gear train including a sun gear 436 (or internal planetary gear), planetary gears 437, a planet carrier 438, and an outer ring gear 439 (or outer planetary gear). In this example, the sun gear 436 is rotatably connected to the drive shaft (here, the low-pressure shaft 409) about and along axis 428. The drive shaft includes a first element designed to cooperate with a complementary second connecting element carried by the sun gear 436. The planetary gears 437 (in the form of pinions) are carried by the planet carrier 438, and each planetary gear 437 rotates about an axis substantially parallel to axis 428. Each planetary gear 437 meshes with the sun gear 436 and the outer ring gear 439. The planetary gears 437 are arranged radially between the sun gear 436 and the outer ring gear 439. In this example, three planetary gears 437 are provided. Of course, the reducer may include a different number of planetary gears.

[0127] An outer ring gear 439, centered on axis 428, is rotatably connected to fan shaft 432. In this way, sun gear 436 forms the input of the reducer, while outer ring gear 439 forms the output of the reducer. On the other hand, planet carrier 438 is fixed relative to ring gear 439. Therefore, reducer 433 has a construction commonly referred to as "planetary type".

[0128] Specifically, the planetary carrier 438 is attached to the turbine's fixed structure via a support shell 440. The support shell 440 is rigidly attached to the turbine's inlet housing 418. The support shell 440 is also attached to a fixed first bearing support 441 integral with the inlet housing 418. The first bearing support 441 is mounted downstream of the reducer 433 and carries the third bearing 415. Alternatively, the planetary carrier 438 may be attached to the radial inner shell of the inlet housing 418 or directly to a second bearing support 444 disposed upstream of the reducer 433.

[0129] Rotary rolling guide bearings are also arranged upstream of the reducer 433 to guide the rotation of the fan shaft 432. These bearings are also arranged in the lubrication housing 435. For example, a fifth rolling bearing 442 (ball bearing) is arranged upstream of the reducer 433, and a sixth rolling bearing 443 (roller bearing) is arranged upstream of the fifth bearing 442. The outer rings of these bearings are supported by a second bearing support 444, which is rigidly integrated with the inlet housing 418. The inner rings of these bearings are supported by the fan shaft 432.

[0130] The fan blades 430 have a variable pitch. Each fan blade 430 includes a root 445 and blades 446 extending radially outward from the root 445. In the example shown, the free end of the blade 446 is radially defined by the fan housing 419. The root 445 of each blade 430 is typically in the form of a shaft, which is pivotally mounted about a pitch axis AC in an inner housing 447 integral with the fan rotor 431. The ring is centered on an axis 428 and includes a plurality of such housings evenly distributed around the axis 428. There are as many housings as there are blade roots. The pitch axis AC is parallel to the radial direction R.

[0131] The pitch setting of the fan blades 430 is achieved by means of a pitch changing system 450 mounted in the fan rotor 431. Specifically, the pitch changing system 450 is arranged upstream of the reducer 433. The pitch changing system 450 includes a hydraulic actuator 452 configured to act on a pitch adjusting mechanism 454 to rotate the blade roots 445 about their respective axes AC. For this purpose, the hydraulic actuator 452 includes a stationary component carried by the fan shaft 432 and a moving component connected to the pitch adjusting mechanism 454. The actuator can be a linear actuator, or, as a variation, a rotary actuator.

[0132] The turbine includes a device 10 of the type described above, for example, the axis of device 10 coincides with the axis 428 of the turbine.

[0133] The central component 20 of the device is supported by the planetary carrier 438, while the peripheral component 22 of the device is rotatably integrated with the fan shaft 432.

[0134] exist Figure 13 The device 10, which is shown very schematically, is arranged such that the fluid inlets 14A to 14C of the device 10 are connected to the fluid supply circuit 456, which advantageously passes through an assembly formed by the planet carrier 438 and the planet gear 437 (i.e., through the planet carrier 438 and / or through one or more of the planet gears 437), with the planet carrier fixed relative to the stator of the turbine.

[0135] Furthermore, the device 10 is arranged such that two of the fluid outlets 16A to 16C of the device 10 are respectively connected to two fluid chambers of the hydraulic actuator 452 to drive the blade roots 445 to rotate about their respective axes AC in one direction and the opposite direction via the pitch adjustment mechanism 454, so as to modify the pitch setting of the blades 430 in the directions of coarse pitch and fine pitch, respectively.

[0136] The third fluid outlet of the device 10, one of the fluid outlets 16A to 16C, is connected, for example, to a locking device configured to block the moving parts of the hydraulic actuator 452 or the pitch adjustment mechanism 454 upon command, thereby preventing the blade roots 445 from rotating about their respective axes AC in a predetermined direction.

[0137] Therefore, here, device 10 is again a device commonly referred to as an OTB ("oil-transmitting bearing") type device.

Claims

1. A device (10) for conveying multiple fluid paths, comprising: - A central component (20) having an outer surface (20A) having a geometry that rotates about an axis (8); - Peripheral component (22), the peripheral component having an inner surface (22A) having a geometry that rotates about the axis (8), the inner surface being arranged around the outer surface (20A) of the central component, such that it has the ability to rotate about the axis (8) relative to the outer surface of the central component; - Transfer chambers (24A to 24C), the transfer chambers being defined between the outer surface (20A) of the central component and the inner surface (22A) of the peripheral component, in: - The central component (20) defines a first fluid path (FP1A to FP1C) that passes through the outer surface (20A) to connect the fluid inlets (14A to 14C) of the device to the transfer chambers (24A to 24C). - The peripheral component (22) defines a second fluid path (FP2A to FP2C) that passes through the inner surface (22A) to connect the fluid outlets (16A to 16C) of the device to the transfer chambers (24A to 24C). The peripheral component (22) includes: - A receiving bushing (DR) defining an aperture (52) extending along the axis (8) and including receiving fluid paths (RCFP-A to RCFP-C) leading to the aperture (52), and each of the receiving fluid paths forming part of a corresponding second fluid path (FP2A to FP2C); and - At least two rings (70A, 70B), each ring having its own outer surface (72) and its own inner surface (74), the outer surface (72) being press-fitted into the hole (52), and the inner surface (74) forming a corresponding portion of the inner surface (22A) of the peripheral component. Each ring (70A, 70B) includes a fluid passage (76A, 76B), each of the fluid passages having an inner end (78) and an outer end (84). The inner end (78) opens through the inner surface (74) of the ring to one of the corresponding transfer chambers (24A, 24C), and the outer end (84) opens through the outer surface (72) of the ring to communicate with one of the corresponding receiving fluid paths (RCFP-A to RCFP-C), thus forming another part of one of the corresponding second fluid paths (FP2A to FP2C). The receiver bushing (DR) is characterized in that it has an annular rib (56) extending into the hole (52), wherein the sides (75A, 75D) of each of the two rings (70A, 70B) press against the two opposite sides (56A, 56B) of the annular rib (56), thereby forming another part of the inner surface (58) of the annular rib (56) of the peripheral component. Among them, one of the receiving fluid paths, in addition to the receiving fluid path that is connected to the fluid passage (76A, 76B) of the ring (70A, 70B), is opened through the inner end surface (58) of the rib (56).

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the rings (70A, 70B) has a recessed side (75A to 75D).

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The inner surface (74) of each of the rings (70A, 70B) defines two sealing strips (79A, 79B) which are axially located on both sides of the fluid passage (76A, 76B) of the ring under consideration.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The inner surface (74) of each of the rings (70A, 70B) has an annular groove (80A, 80C) between its two sealing bands (79A, 79B), and the corresponding fluid passages (76A, 76B) lead to the annular groove.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The peripheral component (22) includes a compressible annular sealing gasket (82) which is inserted between the side surfaces (56A, 56B) of the annular rib (56) and the corresponding side surfaces (75A, 75D) of the two rings (70A, 70B).

6. A turbine (210) for an aircraft, comprising at least one device (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, and comprising a stator integral with one of a central component (20) and a peripheral component (22) of the device, and a rotor integral with the other of the central component (20) and the peripheral component (22) of the device.

7. A method for manufacturing an apparatus (10), said apparatus being the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, said method comprising at least steps A and B: -A) Provide the central component (20) and the peripheral component (22); then -B) Mount the peripheral component (22) around the central component (20) such that the two components can rotate relative to each other and place the first fluid path (FP1A to FP1C) and the second fluid path (FP2A to FP2C) in pairs in communication.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein, Step A includes step A2, and step A2 includes steps A2a, A2b, and A2d: -A2a) provides the receiving bushing (DR) and the ring (70A, 70B); -A2b) Grind the inner surface (74) of each of the rings (70A, 70B) according to the geometry of the outer surface (20A) of the central component; then -A2d) The rings (70A, 70B) are installed in the hole (52) in an interference fit such that the inner surface (74) of each of the rings (70A, 70B) contributes to forming the inner surface (22A) of the peripheral component.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein, Step A2 includes step A2c, which is located between steps A2b and A2d, and step A2c applies a protective coating to the inner surface (74) of each of the rings (70A, 70B) by spraying.

10. A method of operating an apparatus (10), the apparatus being the apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, the method comprising: - Fluid is selectively supplied to the first fluid path (FP1A to FP1C) through the fluid inlets (14A to 14C) of the device; - Allow the fluid to flow in the first fluid path until it reaches the transfer chamber (24A to 24C). - Allow fluid to exit from the transfer chamber (24A to 24C) and flow in the second fluid path (FP2A to FP2C) until it reaches the fluid outlet (16A to 16C) of the device.

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