Turbomachine equipped with a disconnectable electric motor and a bearing member for the disconnection of the motor

By introducing actuators and bearing components into the turbine engine design, indirect contact between the connecting shaft and the motor rotor is achieved, which solves the friction and safety risks caused by direct contact between the motor rotor and the low-pressure shaft, improves power conversion efficiency, and simplifies motor maintenance.

CN123036429APending Publication Date: 2026-11-03SAFRAN AIRCRAFT ENGINES SAS
View PDF 0 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
CN202580026642.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-04-11
Filing Date
2025-04-04
Publication Date
2026-11-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In existing turbine engines, the rotor of the electric motor is in direct contact with the low-pressure shaft, which leads to friction and safety risks, affects the service life of the actuator and connecting shaft, and results in poor power conversion efficiency.

Method used

The design employs a turbine engine, achieving indirect contact between the connecting shaft and the motor rotor through actuators and bearing components. Direct contact is avoided by utilizing the transition between the bearing components and the connecting shaft, and a disengageable connection is achieved through a toothed clutch. Combined with a lubrication system and locking components, the stability of the connecting shaft is ensured.

Benefits of technology

It enables reliable disconnection and reconnection of the connecting shaft and the motor rotor, avoiding the risk of friction caused by direct contact, reducing safety hazards, improving power conversion efficiency, and simplifying the motor maintenance process.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure CN123036429A_ABST
    Figure CN123036429A_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The invention relates to a turbomachine (1) for an aircraft, comprising: - a low-pressure shaft (2) extending along a longitudinal axis (X) as far as a rear end (3), - a turbomachine stator (4) supporting the rear end (3) of the low-pressure shaft (2) by a rear bearing (6), - an electric machine (10) located at the rear of the turbomachine and comprising an electric machine stator (15) fixed to the turbomachine stator (4) and an electric machine rotor (16) supported by the turbomachine stator (4) by at least one bearing (35), - a connecting shaft (24) making it possible to rotate the electric machine rotor (16) by the low-pressure shaft in a detachable manner, the connecting shaft extending along the longitudinal axis towards the rear of the low-pressure shaft (2), and - an actuator (40) configured to move the connecting shaft (24) to a disengaged position and comprising a fixed body (41) connected to the turbomachine stator, the actuator (40) comprising at least one bearing member (55) connected to a mobile body (42) that is mobile relative to the fixed body (41) of the actuator (40) and intended to come into contact with an abutment surface (56) oriented along a direction different from the longitudinal axis (X) and carried by the connecting shaft (24), the connecting shaft making it possible to rotate said bearing member (55) relative to the mobile body (42), the bearing member (55) comprising at least one portion mounted with a degree of freedom to rotate on an arm (57) mounted on the mobile body (42), the arm (57) being mobile relative to the mobile body (42) between a retracted position and an active position.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of turbine engines, particularly turbine engines for aircraft. More specifically, this invention relates to a turbine engine equipped with an electric motor disposed at the rear of the turbine engine. Background Technology

[0002] Existing technologies include documents FR3-A1-124541, FR-A1-3129970, and FR-A1-3123375.

[0003] Given the environmental challenges facing the aviation industry and the increasing demand for electricity alongside the growing number of new aircraft functions and systems, the issue of hybridization of turbine engines has arisen. Motors equipped with accessory gearboxes (AGBs) do not allow for the significant electrical output needed to power all aircraft functions, and the efficiency of converting mechanical power into electricity is not optimal.

[0004] An electric motor is an electromechanical device based on electromagnetism that converts electrical energy into mechanical energy (generator mode) or can reversibly generate electricity from mechanical energy (motor mode). An electric motor can operate in both generator and motor modes.

[0005] It is known to integrate the electric motor at the rear of the turbine engine, where there is space for the integration of the electric motor, while also involving high temperature constraints and other layout challenges.

[0006] An example of a motor positioned at the rear of a turbine engine includes a rotor rotatably coupled to the low-pressure shaft of the turbine engine, which extends as far as the rear of the turbine engine. However, the motor rotor is not mounted directly on the rear end of the low-pressure shaft, but rather on a connecting shaft, to avoid increasing the weight of the low-pressure shaft and due to the decreasing size of turbine engine shafts. The motor is mounted independently of the rest of the turbine engine to facilitate maintenance via a connecting device configured to, for example, detach the connecting shaft, which is rotatably fixed to the motor rotor, from the low-pressure shaft in the event of a failure, or to connect the connecting shaft to the low-pressure shaft. The connecting device includes a rod or finger actuated by an actuator mounted on the stator of the turbine engine and acts directly on the connecting shaft to move it and disconnect it from the low-pressure shaft. An example of a motor located at the rear of the turbine engine cooperating with a connecting device equipped with fingers is described in document FR-A1-3130323.

[0007] However, such direct contact can cause significant friction between components located in different reference frames and operating at different speeds, which can lead to safety risks (e.g., fire outbreaks) and affect the service life of actuators and connecting shafts.

[0008] Some or all of the above-mentioned drawbacks need to be addressed. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The object of the present invention is to provide a solution that enables a simple, economical, durable, repeatable and robust transition between a device for connecting / disconnecting a connecting shaft and the connecting shaft, which rotatably drives a motor and is independent and autonomous in terms of arrangement.

[0010] According to the present invention, this is achieved by a turbine engine, particularly a turbine engine for aircraft, the turbine engine comprising: - Low-pressure shaft, which extends along the longitudinal axis to the rear end. - Turbine engine stator: The turbine engine stator supports the rear end of the low-pressure shaft via a rear bearing. - An electric motor, located at the rear of the turbine engine, comprising a motor stator attached to the stator of the turbine engine and a motor rotor supported by the turbine engine stator via at least one bearing. - A connecting shaft that allows the low-voltage shaft to extend rearward along the longitudinal axis and enables the motor rotor to be driven in a disengaged manner via the low-voltage shaft. - An actuator, configured to move the connecting shaft to a disengaged position, and includes a fixed body connected to the stator of the turbine engine. The actuator includes at least one bearing member connected to a movable body that is movable relative to a fixed body of the actuator and configured to contact an abutting surface of a connecting shaft capable of driving the member to rotate.

[0011] Therefore, this solution enables the achievement of the aforementioned objectives. Specifically, this configuration limits the number of rotating parts to the level of devices that allow the rotor (connecting shaft) to be disconnected from the stator (here, part of the actuator). Only at least one bearing member exists as a transition between the stator and rotor. By contacting the bearing member that can pivot on the connecting shaft, direct contact between the stator portion and the connecting shaft is avoided, thus eliminating the transmission of rotor motion from the motor. Furthermore, this solution is non-destructive and reversible because it preserves the integrity of the connecting shaft, allowing the motor to be disconnected for subsequent maintenance and reconnected once it is running, enabling it to be driven again via the low-voltage shaft through the connecting shaft. Moreover, the contact components are relatively simple, requiring no major modifications to the actuator. Keeping the actuator at the stator reference level allows for cost control of the turbine engine.

[0012] Turbine engines also include one or more of the following characteristics and / or steps, employed individually or in combination: - The connecting shaft includes a first jaw clutch tooth at its first end, the first jaw clutch tooth being configured to engage or disengage with a second jaw clutch tooth located at the rear end of the low-pressure shaft.

[0013] - The bearing assembly is freely mounted on the arm, which is supported by a collar attached to one end of the movable body, with the collar centered on the longitudinal axis.

[0014] - The turbine engine includes a locking member configured to lock the connecting shaft in its coupled position.

[0015] - The locking member is mounted to be radially movable relative to the rotor shaft of the motor, and the locking member includes a head configured to slide and be received in an orifice of the connecting shaft.

[0016] - The second elastic element is configured to move the connecting shaft to a connection position with the low-pressure shaft, and the second elastic element extends along the longitudinal axis between the first abutting surface of the motor rotor and the second abutting surface of the connecting shaft.

[0017] - The arm is configured to move between a retracted position and an active position. In the retracted position, the bearing member is close to the collar, while in the active position, the bearing member is located at a distance from the collar.

[0018] - The third elastic element is configured to move the arm from the retracted position toward the active position.

[0019] - The rear bearing is arranged in the first lubrication housing, and the turbine engine includes a lubrication circuit, which includes a conduit formed in the thickness of a section at the rear end of the low-pressure shaft and leading to the first housing.

[0020] - The motor and bearing components are housed in a second housing, which is different from the first lubrication housing. The first and second housings are at least partially separated by a sealing gasket.

[0021] - The rotor shaft of the motor is supported by at least one rotary bearing arranged in the first housing.

[0022] -- Sealing gaskets are placed on both sides of the connecting equipment.

[0023] -- The contact surface is supported by the connecting bearing.

[0024] The present invention relates to an aircraft comprising at least one turbine engine having any of the aforementioned characteristics. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The invention will be better understood by reading the following detailed explanatory description of embodiments of the invention given as purely illustrative and non-limiting examples with reference to the accompanying schematic diagrams, and other objects, details, features, and advantages of the invention will become clearer, as illustrated in the accompanying schematic diagrams: - Figure 1 This is a schematic and partial axial cross-sectional view of an example of a turbine engine to which the present invention is applicable; - Figure 2 This is a perspective view of an embodiment of a control device according to the present invention configured to act on a connecting shaft of a turbine engine; - Figure 3 A partial axial cross-sectional view illustrates an example of a control device according to the invention equipped with a component configured to move a connecting shaft; - Figure 4 Indicates according to Figure 3 Components that cooperate with the connecting shaft; - Figure 5 Indicates according to Figure 4 The connecting shaft that is disconnected from the low-pressure shaft; - Figure 6 This is an axial cross-sectional view of an example control device according to the invention having a transition or bearing member configured to move the connecting shaft to a position prior to the installation of the control device; - Figure 7 It is based on Figure 6 Axial cross-sectional view of the transition member in the retracted position and the control device connected to other components of the turbine engine; and - Figure 8 It is based on Figure 6 Axial cross-sectional view of the transition member located in the active position. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Figure 1 The turbine engine 1 to which the present invention is applicable is schematically and partially shown. The turbine engine 1 has a longitudinal axis X. The turbine engine 1 is configured to be mounted on an aircraft. In particular, the turbine engine can be a turbojet engine, a turboprop engine, a turboshaft engine, or a turbine engine that typically includes a fan or propeller, which may be a ducted or ductless fan or propeller. Figure 1 Only the rear or downstream section of the turbine engine along the longitudinal axis X is shown.

[0027] In this invention, the terms "upstream" and "downstream" are generally defined in relation to the flow of gas or air in a turbine engine, and here are defined along the longitudinal axis X. The terms "axial" and "axially" are defined in relation to the longitudinal axis X. The terms "external," "outer," "inner," "internal," and "radial" are defined relative to the radial axis Z extending from the longitudinal axis X and relative to the distance from the longitudinal axis X. The radial axis Z is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X.

[0028] The turbine engine 1 includes a low-pressure shaft 2, which extends along the longitudinal axis X and continues to the rear end 3. Advantageously, the low-pressure shaft 2 is coupled to the rotor of a turbine (not shown) of the turbine engine. In particular, the turbine under consideration is a low-pressure turbine, but is not limited to a low-pressure turbine. The rotor of the low-pressure turbine is typically connected via the low-pressure shaft 2 to the rotor of a low-pressure compressor (not shown), which is located further upstream in the turbine engine along the longitudinal axis X.

[0029] The low-pressure shaft 2 is supported by the stator 4 of the turbine engine via a number of bearings. For example, the stator 4 is a housing, preferably an exhaust housing 5. More specifically, the turbine engine includes a rear bearing 6, which enables the stator 4 to support the rear end 3 of the low-pressure shaft 2. Optionally, the rear bearing 6 includes an inner ring 6a and an outer ring 6b, the inner ring 6a being fixed to the rear end 6 of the low-pressure shaft 2, and the outer ring 6b being fixed to a cylindrical support surface 7a of the stator 4 of the turbine engine. For example, the cylindrical support surface 7a is fixed to a bearing support 7. Rolling members 6c, such as rollers, are arranged between the inner ring 6a and the outer ring 6b.

[0030] Advantageously, the rear bearing 6 is arranged in the first lubrication housing 8. For example, the first lubrication housing 8 is closed by one or more sealing washers 9 arranged between the walls defining the first housing 8 (the wall of the shaft, the wall of the housing, etc.).

[0031] The turbine engine 1 includes an electric motor 10 located at the rear of the turbine engine 1. Advantageously, the electric motor 10 is housed in a cavity 11 formed downstream of the rear end 3 of the low-pressure shaft 2. In other words, the electric motor 10 is arranged downstream of the rear end 3 of the low-pressure shaft 2. The cavity 11 is at least partially enclosed by a shroud 12, which is attached, for example by bolts (not shown), to the stator 4, which is here attached to the exhaust casing 5 of the turbine engine. A thermal protector 14 can be applied to the inner wall of the shroud 12 to protect the shroud 12 from heat generated by the exhaust gas at the outlet of the low-pressure turbine (not shown) of the turbine engine.

[0032] The motor 10 includes a stator 15 and a rotor 16. The motor 10 can operate alternately in generator mode and motor mode. In other words, the motor 10 can draw power from the low-voltage shaft or inject power into the low-voltage shaft 2. Advantageously, but not limitedly, the motor stator 15 includes powered stator windings (or coils), and the motor rotor 16 includes permanent magnets. The stator windings are configured to be electrically driven.

[0033] In this example, the stator 15 of the motor 10 surrounds the rotor 16 of the motor 10 and is attached to the stator 4 of the turbine engine. For example... Figure 1 As shown, advantageously, a cover 12 equipped with a thermal protector 14 surrounds the stator 15 of the motor 10.

[0034] Advantageously, but not limitedly, the stator 15 includes a body 17 extending along a longitudinal axis X between a first end 18 and a second end 19. A first annular housing 20, centered on the longitudinal axis X, extends from the first end 18 and is attached to the exhaust housing 5. For example, the first annular housing 20 is provided with a flange 21, which is attached to a flange 22 of the exhaust housing 5, for example, by a bolted connection 23. Advantageously, but not limitedly, the bolted connection 23 is an axial type bolted connection. Other methods for securing or releasing the stator 15 of the electric motor to the stator 4 of the turbine engine are conceivable.

[0035] Advantageously, the rotor 16 of the motor 10 is disengaged from the low-pressure shaft 2. This is achieved via a connecting shaft 24, which allows the rotational motion of the low-pressure shaft 2 to be transmitted to the motor rotor 16. The connecting shaft 24 is configured to be rotatably connected to or disconnected from the rotor 16 of the motor 10. In the event of a failure of the motor 10, it can be required that the rotor 16 of the motor 10 is no longer driven by the low-pressure shaft 2, thus allowing disengagement. The motor rotor 16 can be locked, affecting the operation of the turbine engine and its drag. Disconnecting the motor rotor 16 prevents the low-pressure shaft 2 from stopping, which would cause the turbine engine to shut down. In the case of a turbine engine shutdown but not locked, the fan or propeller rotates naturally, which limits the turbine engine's drag.

[0036] Therefore, such as Figure 1 As shown, the connecting shaft 24 extends along the longitudinal axis X, particularly between the first end 25 and the second end 26. The connecting shaft 24 extends downstream of the rear end 3 of the low-pressure shaft 2, and directs the low-pressure shaft 2 toward the rear of the turbine engine 1. Advantageously, the connecting shaft 24 is coaxial with the low-pressure shaft 2.

[0037] A coupling device 27 is provided to connect or disconnect the rotor 16 of the motor from the low-pressure shaft 2. The coupling device 27 includes a first jaw clutch tooth 28, carried by a connecting shaft 24 and configured to engage with a second jaw clutch tooth 29 carried by the low-pressure shaft 2. Advantageously, but not exclusively, the first jaw clutch tooth 28 is arranged at the level of the first end 25 of the connecting shaft 24. The jaw clutch teeth 28 and 29 are arranged in a ring, preferably with each jaw clutch tooth 28 or 29 extending axially. Similarly, the second jaw clutch tooth 29 is positioned at the level of the rear end 3 of the low-pressure shaft 2. The second jaw clutch tooth 29 is complementary to the first tooth 28 and advantageously has the same construction.

[0038] The motor 10 includes a rotor shaft 30, which is rotatably fixed to the rotor 16 of the motor 10 on one hand and connected to a connecting shaft 24 on the other. For example, the rotor shaft 30 and the motor rotor 16 are fixed by a fastening spline 31. A nut 32 centered on the longitudinal axis X allows the motor rotor 16 to be axially blocked downstream on the rotor shaft 30. A radial shoulder 33 provided on the rotor shaft 30 axially blocks the motor rotor 16 upstream on the rotor shaft 30. In other words, the motor rotor 16 is axially fixed relative to the rotor shaft 30.

[0039] Advantageously, but not exclusively, the rotor shaft 30 is a hollow shaft and is mounted coaxially around the connecting shaft 24. The connecting shaft 24 is also a hollow shaft. More precisely, the rotor shaft 30 is mounted to be rotatably fixed to the connecting shaft 24. For example, sliding splines 34 are used to maintain the fixation of the rotor shaft 30 and the connecting shaft 24. These sliding splines 34 allow the connecting shaft 24 to move axially relative to the rotor shaft 30. In particular, the connecting shaft 24 and the rotor shaft 30 each include splines that cooperate with each other and extend along the longitudinal axis X. In practice, the connecting shaft 24 is configured to move between a coupled position and a disengaged position, in which the connecting shaft 24 is engaged with the low-pressure shaft 2, and in the disengaged position, the connecting shaft 24 is not engaged with the low-pressure shaft 2.

[0040] refer to Figure 1The rotor shaft 30 is supported by at least one rotary bearing 35. In this embodiment, there are two rotary bearings, referred to as a first bearing 351 and a second bearing 352. Each rotary bearing 351, 352 includes an inner ring 35a fixed to the rotor shaft 30 and an outer ring 35b fixed to a bearing support 36. Advantageously, but not exclusively, the bearing support 36 is attached to the bearing support 7. Attachment is performed, for example, by a removable attachment member 37 such as a bolt. This makes it possible to prevent axial movement of the rotor shaft 30. A rolling member 35c is arranged between the inner ring 35a and the outer ring 35b. In this embodiment, the inner ring 35a and the outer ring 35b of the first bearing 351 are each axially blocked upstream by a nut 38 and downstream by a shoulder 39. The inner ring 35a and the outer ring 35b of the second bearing 352 are each axially blocked upstream by a shoulder.

[0041] Advantageously, but not exclusively, the rolling element 35c is a ball for the first bearing 351 and a roller for the second bearing 352.

[0042] Alternatively, the rolling elements 35c for both bearings are balls. In this scenario, radial preload between the balls is required. According to yet another alternative, the rolling element 35c of one bearing comprises balls, while the other bearing comprises tapered rollers. In other words, the motor 10 rests on its own rotating bearing.

[0043] According to the example shown, the first bearing 351 is arranged upstream of the rear bearing 6, while the second bearing 352 is arranged downstream of the rear bearing 6.

[0044] In this way, the low-pressure shaft 2 drives the rotor 16 of the motor 10 to rotate by the connecting shaft 24, the rotor shaft 30 and the teeth 28, 29 of the jaw clutch engaging with each other at the connection position of the connecting shaft 24.

[0045] When it is necessary to separate the rotor 16 of the motor 10 from the low-pressure shaft 2, the first jaw clutch tooth 28 disengages from the second jaw clutch tooth 29. In this example, the connecting shaft 24 moves downstream toward its disengaged position. In this position, the rotor 16 of the motor 10 is no longer rotated by the low-pressure shaft 2.

[0046] Advantageously, but without limitation, the movement of the connecting shaft 24 is controlled between the connected and disconnected positions by the actuator 40.

[0047] Example of actuator 40 in Figure 2As shown in the figure. This example of actuator 40 includes a fixed body 41 and a movable body 42, the fixed body 41 being configured to attach to the stator of a turbine engine, and the movable body 42 sliding within the fixed body 41. For example, the fixed body 41 is in the form of a box and, when installed, extends between a first end 41a and a second end 41b along an axis A coaxial with the longitudinal axis. For example, a flange 43 extends radially outward from the first end 41a. The flange 43 is attached to a flange 44 of a housing 45, which is connected to the stator 15 of the motor 10. Advantageously, the housing 45 is centered on the longitudinal axis X. For example, the attachment between the flange 43 of the fixed body 41 and the flange 44 of the housing 45 is achieved by a bolted connection 51. The bolted connection 51 may include a threaded rod extending parallel to the longitudinal axis X. The housing 45 includes a radially outwardly extending flange 46 at the first end 45a. For example, the flange 44 is positioned toward a second end 45b opposite the first end 45a along the longitudinal axis X. The flange 46 is fixed to the attachment flange 47 of the stator body of the motor 10 (at the level of the second end 19). For example, this attachment is achieved by bolt connection.

[0048] Advantageously, but not limitedly, the housing 45 comprises a truncated conical axial cross section. This configuration allows for a reduction in the overall axial dimension and limits the suspended mass of the actuator. The shape of the housing 45 also facilitates the insertion and implementation of the movable body 42.

[0049] Advantageously, but not limitedly, the movable body 42 of the actuator 40 is in the form of a rod. In this example, the movable body 42 moves along the longitudinal axis X. Advantageously, but not limitedly, the actuator 40 includes a collar 48 movably fixed to the movable body 42. The collar 48 is annular and centered on the longitudinal axis X. The movable body 42 includes a flange 49 at a first end 42a, the flange 49 extending radially and attached to a radial flange 50 of the collar 48 via an attachment member 66. The attachment member 66 includes a threaded rod, where the axis of the threaded rod is parallel to the longitudinal axis X. Alternatively, the collar 48 may be integral with (or formed as a single piece) the movable body 42 of the actuator 40.

[0050] Advantageously, but without restriction, such as may Figure 2 As seen in the image, the collar 48 includes a wall 52 having a truncated conical axial cross section. The wall 52 includes a radial flange 50 at one of its ends 52a, 52b.

[0051] Still referencing Figure 2 At least one bearing member 55 is connected to the movable body 42. The bearing member 55 is configured to abut against the connecting shaft 24 at its abutment surface 56 (e.g., in…). Figure 3(See image) Contact, the connecting shaft 24 is capable of driving at least a portion of the bearing member 55 to rotate. Advantageously, the bearing member 55 is movable relative to the movable body 42.

[0052] refer to Figure 3 Preferably, but not limitingly, the bearing member 55 is carried by a collar 48 fixed to the movable body 42. Specifically, the bearing member 55 is mounted on an arm 57, preferably, the arm 57 itself is carried by the collar 48. Advantageously, the arm 57 is mounted to move relative to the movable body 42 (advantageously, by translation). Advantageously, the arm 57 moves between a retracted position and an active position.

[0053] Advantageously, the collar 48 is provided with an opening 58 that extends laterally through the wall 52 of the collar 48 from one side to the other.

[0054] Advantageously, arm 57 extends through opening 58 in wall 52. Advantageously, but not as a limitation, arm 57 extends between first end 57a and second end 57b. For example, bearing member 55 is mounted at the level of first end 57a.

[0055] In this embodiment, the bearing member 55 includes rollers. The rollers include an inner ring 59a fixed to the outer surface of the arm 57 and an outer ring 59b surrounding the inner ring 59a and centered on the elongation axis of the arm 57. A rolling member 59c is mounted between the inner ring 59a and the outer ring 59b; here, the rolling member 59c is a ball. Advantageously, but not limitingly, the inner ring 59a is prevented from translating along the elongation axis between the nut 60 and the annular extension 61. Alternatively, the bearing member may include an element that rests against and pivots on the surface of the connecting shaft 24 without impeding rotation of the connecting shaft 24 during the initial contact. In other words, the bearing member pivots relative to the connecting shaft and also relative to the movable body 42 (here, relative to the arm 57).

[0056] As in Figure 3 As seen in the image, arm 57 includes a base 62, for example, located at a second end 57b. The base 62 includes a first surface 63 defined in a plane perpendicular to the elongation axis of arm 47. The first surface 63 faces and contacts the outer surface 64 of collar 48.

[0057] In the example shown, there are at least three bearing components 55 distributed around the longitudinal axis X.

[0058] For example, the connecting shaft 24 includes an end wall 65, which, advantageously, is inclined relative to the longitudinal axis X. Advantageously, the end wall 65 flares out from upstream to downstream, starting from the second end 26. In other words, the end wall 65 is a truncated conical end wall. Here, for example, the end wall 65 carries an abutment surface 56, which, advantageously, is a truncated conical abutment surface. The end wall 65 is annular and centered on the longitudinal axis X.

[0059] Figure 4 The connecting shaft 24 in its disengaged position is shown. To terminate the drive of the motor rotor 16 by the connecting shaft 24 when needed (e.g., malfunction, failure, etc.), the movable body 42 of the actuator 40 applies force to the abutment surface 56 of the connecting shaft 24 from upstream to downstream (along the longitudinal axis) via bearing members 55 (rollers), causing the first jaw clutch tooth 28 to disengage from the second jaw clutch tooth 29. The outer ring 59b of the roller, in contact with the abutment surface 56, is driven to rotate and is considered as an indirect contact between the actuator 40 and the connecting shaft 24, which is the rotor, in the stator reference frame. The rollers allow for a transition between the rotor and the stator. In this way, the connecting shaft 24 moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position. The disengagement of teeth 28, 29 (i.e., the cessation of rotation of the rotor 16) does not prevent the operation of the turbine engine.

[0060] refer to Figure 5 The turbine engine 1 includes a locking member 70 located at the connection shaft 24, preferably in a disengaged position. For example, the locking member 70 is in the form of a pin or bolt. Specifically, the locking member 70 includes a rod 71 extending along a rotation axis B between a first end 71a and a second end 71b. In the installed configuration, the rotation axis B of the locking member 70 is parallel to the radial axis. For example, the locking member 70 is equipped with a head 72 at the first end 71a and a base 73 at the second end 71b.

[0061] The rotor shaft 30 includes a first aperture 74 that radially passes through the walls of the rotor shaft 30 on both sides. The connecting shaft 24 includes a second aperture 75 that radially passes through the walls of the connecting shaft 24 on both sides. Optionally, the first aperture 74 is located at the level of a segment 30b of the rotor shaft 30 extending along the longitudinal axis X. Advantageously, but not limitingly, the segment 30b extends radially inside the fastening spline 31. For example, the segment 30b extends parallel to a segment 24b of the connecting shaft 24, and the second aperture 75 is located in the segment 24b. The base 73 of the locking member 70 is radially located outside the segment 30b.

[0062] Advantageously, but not limitingly, the locking member 70 can be in the unlocked position (e.g., Figure 1 and Figure 3 (as shown) and locking position (as shown) Figure 5 The locking member 70 moves between (as shown). Advantageously, the locking member 70 slides along the radial axis at least in the first aperture 74. The head 72 of the locking member 70 is configured to slide and be received in the second aperture 75. Preferably, in the locked position, the head 72 is received in the second aperture 75 of the connecting shaft 24. In this locked position, the first aperture 74 is arranged opposite to the second aperture 75. Conversely, in the unlocked position, the head 72 is located outside the second aperture 75. When the locking member 70 is in the locked position, the jaw clutch teeth 28, 29 are disengaged, and when the locking member 70 is in the unlocked position, the jaw clutch teeth 28, 29 are engaged.

[0063] Depending on the optional feature, the length of the locking member 70 is equal to or greater than the height H1 measured between the outer surfaces of section 30b and section 24b in the locked position.

[0064] The first elastic element 76 is configured to move the locking member 70 to a locked position. Specifically, the rotor shaft 30 includes a housing 77 in which the first elastic element 76 is housed. For example, the first elastic element 76 is a radially extending compression spring. The first elastic element 76 extends about the rod 71 on one side and between the head 72 and the base 73 on the other. Advantageously, the housing 77 is a section of the first aperture 74 with a larger axial cross-section.

[0065] Advantageously, but not limitingly, the head 72 of the locking member 70 moves on the truncated conical surface 78 of the connecting shaft 24. Specifically, when the connecting shaft 24 moves from the engaged position to the disengaged position, the head 72 moves (slides) on the truncated conical surface 78 and translates freely along the radial axis through the first orifice 74. The truncated conical surface 78 is formed by the truncated conical segment 24c of the connecting shaft 24 (see...). Figure 4 ( ) Bearing. In this example, advantageously, the truncated conical segment 24c is located downstream of segment 24b. By moving from downstream to upstream, the first elastic element 76 is compressed within the housing, and then decompressed once the head 72 is positioned opposite the second aperture 75. (As can be...) Figure 3 As seen in the image, when the connecting shaft 24 is connected to the low-pressure shaft 2, the first elastic element 76 is not compressed.

[0066] The turbine engine 1 includes a second elastic element 80 configured to move the connecting shaft 24 toward a coupling position. The second elastic element 80 extends along a longitudinal axis between a first abutment surface 81 of the rotor shaft 30 and a second abutment surface 82 of the connecting shaft 24. Advantageously, the first abutment surface 81 is supported by a first protrusion 83 extending radially from the outer surface of the connecting shaft 24. The second abutment surface 82 is supported by a second protrusion 84 extending radially from the inner surface of the rotor shaft 30. The first abutment surface 81, the second abutment surface 82, the outer surface of the connecting shaft 24, and the outer surface of the rotor shaft 30 define a housing in which the second elastic element 80 is disposed. Optionally, the protrusions 83 and 84 are formed at the horizontal level of a section of the rotor shaft and at the horizontal level of a section of the connecting shaft 24, respectively. For example, the second elastic element 80 is a compression spring. For example, when the connecting shaft 24 is in the disengaged position, the compression spring is found to be in a compressed state (see...). Figure 5 Furthermore, when the connecting shaft occupies the connection position, it is found that the compression spring is in an uncompressed state (see...). Figure 3 ).

[0067] Figures 6 to 8 An example of the steps for assembling the actuator 40 relative to the stator of the turbine engine 1 is shown. Figure 6 In this configuration, the actuator 40 is located at a distance from the components of the motor 10 and the turbine engine. The arm 57 occupies a retracted position, which facilitates attachment of the actuator 40 to the stator, particularly the motor stator 15. In this retracted position, the bearing member 55 is close to the collar 48. The bearing member 55 is also referred to as the inner surface 85 facing the collar 48 in the retracted position. The inner surface 85 is opposite the outer surface 64 of the collar 48. In this retracted position, the radially lowest point of the bearing member 55 defines the maximum diameter D1a of the bearing member 55, which is equal to or greater than the maximum diameter D2 defined by the radially outermost point of the end wall. Rollers can pass over the end wall 65 for subsequent assembly and disassembly. The shape of the collar also facilitates positioning the bearing member at its radially furthest position for assembly and disassembly of the actuator 40.

[0068] exist Figure 7In this configuration, the fixed body of actuator 40 is attached to the stator body of motor 10. Bearing member 55 remains in the retracted position, allowing it to radially extend over connecting shaft 24, particularly over end wall 65, which extends laterally and in this position toward the interior of collar 48. Advantageously, bearing member 55 is retracted only during the assembly and disassembly of actuator 40. Retraction of bearing member 55 is facilitated by removable spacers 87 positioned between the base 62 of each arm 57 and the outer surface 64 of collar 48. It is understood that the arms 57, movably mounted relative to movable body 42, enable adaptation to various configurations of connecting shaft 24, particularly differences in diameter and / or abutment surface 56, which is either a truncated conical surface, inclined, or oriented differently from the longitudinal axis in this example embodiment.

[0069] exist Figure 8 In the middle position, the bearing component 55 occupies a movable position, in which it is located at a certain distance from the collar 48. In the movable position, the radial lowest point of the transition component 55 defines the minimum diameter D1b of the bearing component, which is smaller than the maximum diameter D2 defined by the radial outermost point of the end wall 65. The rollers can abut against the abutment surface 56 of the end wall 65 of the connecting shaft 24.

[0070] To move from the retracted position to the active position, the spacer 87 is removed, allowing the base 62 of the arm 57 to contact the collar 48. For this purpose, a third elastic element 86 is configured to move the arm 57 from the retracted position to the active position. The third elastic element 86 facilitates the return of the bearing member 55 carried by the arm 57 to the active position. Advantageously, but not limitingly, the third elastic element 86 is housed in a housing formed in the collar 48. The housing is coaxial with the orifice 58 of the collar 48.

[0071] Advantageously, but not limitingly, the housing 45 includes at least one opening 88 extending through the wall of the housing 45 from one side to the other. The opening 88 allows the spacer 87 of each arm 57 to pass through and be removed. The opening 88 has a sufficiently large cross-section to allow one or more spacers to pass through. According to an embodiment, the housing 45 includes a plurality of openings corresponding to the number of spacers cooperating with each arm 57 and allowing each spacer to pass through. Advantageously, each opening 88 is oriented towards the spacer 87 to facilitate the removal and handling of the spacer. Advantageously, but not limitingly, the opening or each opening is closed after the spacer or each spacer has been removed.

[0072] According to an example of the embodiment, grease is used to lubricate the bearing component 55 (here, the roller). In fact, the bearing component 55 is located in a second housing 89, which also houses the motor 10. The second housing 89 is different from the first housing 8. The second housing 89 is housed within a cavity 11. The second housing 89 is at least partially defined by the stator 15 of the motor 10, the housing 45 connected to the actuator 40, and a section of the connecting shaft 24. No lubricant is sprayed into the second lubrication housing. Grease is only present on the roller.

[0073] refer to Figure 5 Provide at least one sealing gasket 90 (see Figure 1 This separates the first lubrication housing 8 from the second housing 89. Advantageously, a sealing gasket 90 is installed in a groove 91, which is located in a first protrusion 83 of the connecting shaft 24 (particularly section 24b of the connecting shaft 24). For example, the groove 91 is annular, and the sealing gasket 90 is also annular. The groove 91 has a U-shaped axial cross section, and the opening of the groove 91 is arranged to face the radially inner surface 94 of section 30b of the rotor shaft 30. The sealing gasket 90 contacts the radially inner surface 94 of the rotor shaft, preferably the radially inner surface 94 of section 30b.

[0074] The first housing 8 is supplied by a lubrication circuit 100 connected to a supply source (not shown). The lubrication source may be a reservoir. The lubrication circuit 100 includes a conduit 101 formed in the thickness of a section at the rear end 3 of the low-pressure shaft 2, such as... Figure 1 and Figures 3 to 5 As shown. A conduit leads to the first lubrication housing 8. For this purpose, the conduit 101 leads to the radial surface 102 at the rear end of the low-pressure shaft, from which the second jaw clutch teeth 29 extend. The connecting shaft 24 includes a shaft section 24a that carries a portion of the sliding spline 34. For example, the shaft section 24a includes an external spline that extends radially outward and is configured to cooperate with a radially inwardly extending internal spline of the rotor shaft 30. The external and internal splines form the sliding spline 34. The shaft section 24a includes an orifice 104 that extends radially through the wall of the shaft section 24a from one side to the other. Advantageously, the orifice 104 is located downstream of the external spline. Lubricant can flow as far as the orifice 104 to also lubricate the sliding spline 34.

[0075] Advantageously, but not exclusively, the rear end 3 of the low-pressure shaft 2 includes an annular skirt 105, which extends axially downstream and is configured to at least surround the jaw clutch teeth 29. Lubricant at the outlet of the conduit 101 travels on the inner surface 106 of the skirt 105, which guides the lubricant toward the orifice 104. The lubricant can travel toward the rotary bearing 35 of the rotor shaft of the motor 10, and toward the rear bearing 6. Advantageously, but not exclusively, the rotary bearing 35, or each rotary bearing 35, is arranged within the first housing 8. This configuration of the lubrication circuit allows for the avoidance of constraints on the arrangement of auxiliary devices outside the first housing, which translates to mass savings.

[0076] The lubrication circuit 100 may include a channel provided to allow lubricant to return toward a supply source.

[0077] Preferably, the lubricant is oil (in the form of a mist), which allows the bearing 35 that guides the rotation of the rotor shaft of the motor 10 and generates heat, as well as the bearing 6 of the low-pressure shaft 2, to be lubricated and cooled.

Claims

1. A turbine engine (1), particularly a turbine engine for aircraft, comprising: - Low-pressure shaft (2), which extends along the longitudinal axis (X) to the rear end (3). - Turbine engine stator (4), which supports the rear end (3) of the low-pressure shaft (2) by means of a rear bearing (6). - Motor (10), the motor (10) is located at the rear of the turbine engine, the motor (10) includes a motor stator (15) attached to the turbine engine stator (4) and a motor rotor (16) supported by the turbine engine stator (4) by at least one bearing (35). - A connecting shaft (24) that causes the low-pressure shaft (2) to extend along the longitudinal axis toward the rear and is capable of disengagingly driving the rotor (16) of the motor to rotate. - An actuator (40) configured to move the connecting shaft (24) to a disengaged position and comprising a fixed body (41) connected to the stator of the turbine engine, the actuator (40) comprising at least one bearing member (55) connected to a movable body (42) movable relative to the fixed body (41) of the actuator (40) and configured to contact an abutment surface (56) oriented in a direction other than the longitudinal axis (X) and carried by the connecting shaft (24), the connecting shaft (24) being capable of driving the bearing member (55) to rotate relative to the movable body (42), characterized in that the bearing member (55) comprises at least one portion mounted to rotate freely on an arm (57) mounted on the movable body (42), the arm (57) being movable relative to the movable body (42) between a retracted position and an active position.

2. The turbine engine (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The connecting shaft (24) includes a first toothed clutch tooth (28) at its first end, the first toothed clutch tooth being configured to engage or disengage with a second toothed clutch tooth (29) located at the rear end (3) of the low-pressure shaft (2).

3. The turbine engine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The arm (57) is supported by a collar (48) which is attached to one end of the movable body (42) and is centered on the longitudinal axis (X).

4. The turbine engine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The turbine engine includes a locking member (70) configured to lock the connecting shaft (24) in its coupled position.

5. The turbine engine (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The locking member (70) is mounted to be radially movable relative to the rotor shaft (30) of the motor (10), and the locking member (70) includes a head (72) configured to slide and be received in an orifice (75) of the connecting shaft (24).

6. The turbine engine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The elastic element (80) is configured to move the connecting shaft (24) to a connection position with the low-pressure shaft (2), wherein the elastic element (80) extends along the longitudinal axis (X) between the first abutting surface (81) of the motor rotor (16) and the second abutting surface (82) of the connecting shaft (24).

7. The turbine engine (1) according to claim 3 or a combination of claim 3 and any one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that, In the retracted position, the bearing member (55) is close to the collar (48), while in the active position, the bearing member (55) is located at a certain distance from the collar (48).

8. The turbine engine (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The elastic element (86) is configured to move the arm (57) from the retracted position toward the active position.

9. The turbine engine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The rear bearing (6) is arranged in the first lubrication housing (8), and the turbine engine includes a lubrication circuit (100) including a conduit (101) formed in the thickness of the section of the rear end (3) of the low-pressure shaft (2) and the conduit (101) leads to the first housing (8).

10. The turbine engine (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, The motor (10) and the bearing component (55) are housed in a second housing (89) that is different from the first lubrication housing (8), and the first housing (8) and the second housing (89) are at least partially separated by a sealing gasket (90).

11. The turbine engine (1) according to any one of claims 5, 9, and 10, characterized in that, The rotor shaft (30) of the motor (15) is supported by at least one rotary bearing (35) arranged in the first housing (8).

12. The turbine engine (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The connecting shaft (24) includes an end wall (65) that opens from one end (26) from upstream to downstream and carries the abutment surface (56).