Accessory Gearbox Output Assembly With One-Way Clutch Coupling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Gas turbine engine accessory systems face inefficiencies and reduced lifespan due to inadequate power and torque transfer, particularly at lower power levels, leading to potential deformation of components from elevated temperatures and weight during flight operations.
Innovation Solution
A turning unit with an electric motor and output assembly is mechanically coupled to the accessory gearbox, utilizing a primary one-way clutch and reduction gearbox to rotate components at low speeds during shutdown, preventing back rotation and ensuring efficient power transfer while minimizing component deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If accessory systems are rigidly coupled to accessory gear, then power transfer is ensured, but accessory system lifespan is reduced and inefficiencies occur at lower power levels
Solution Approach 1:
A one-way clutch mechanism is introduced as an intermediary between the accessory gear and the accessory system. This clutch allows torque to be transmitted from the accessory gear to the accessory system during normal operation, but prevents reverse torque from damaging the accessory system, thereby extending its lifespan while maintaining power transfer reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling between the accessory gear and accessory system is changed from rigid to dynamic through the one-way clutch. This dynamic coupling allows the system to adapt to varying power levels and torque directions, enabling the accessory system to disengage when subjected to excessive reverse torque while remaining connected during normal operation.
2Use of energy by moving object
If accessory systems operate at lower power levels, then energy consumption is reduced, but torque transfer efficiency decreases and component deformation risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The one-way clutch mechanism changes the operational parameters of the accessory system by allowing it to operate independently when torque requirements are low. This enables the accessory system to maintain efficient operation across a wider range of power levels without being constrained by rigid coupling to the accessory gear.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution increases the useful life of gas turbine engine components by reducing the risk of deformation and maintaining efficient power transfer, even at lower operational speeds, thereby enhancing the longevity of the engine.
Implementation Method 1
a first rotating member and a second rotating member, the second rotating member coupled to the first rotating member through a one-way clutch
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An output assembly for an accessory system of a gas turbine engine includes a first rotating member extending along an axis and including a mechanical connector for coupling the output assembly to an accessory system. The output assembly also including a second rotating member extending along the axis, the second rotating member coupled to the first rotating member at a first axial position and at a second axial position, the second rotating member coupled to the first rotating member at the second axial position through a one-way clutch. Additionally, the first rotating member of the output assembly further includes an extension member extending at least partially between the first axial position and the second axial position, the extension member including a designed fail point.