Air Blocker Ring Assembly with Split Line Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air blocker ring configurations in fuel injectors for turbine engines do not effectively control the amount of compressed air received, leading to inconsistent combustion and potential separation of components under varying air pressures and velocities.
Innovation Solution
A novel air blocker ring assembly with a circumferentially extending split line formed by a blocker ring and a blocker ring support, featuring radially extending protrusions and a snap ring for secure positioning, which controls the air flow and reduces the likelihood of component separation by distributing the leading edge across both the blocker ring and support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the blocker ring is used to control compressed air flow, then the amount of air can be regulated, but the component may separate under varying air pressures and velocities
Solution Approach 1:
The blocker ring assembly is divided into two separate components: the blocker ring itself and the blocker ring support. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while working together to prevent separation. The support structure provides additional anchoring points that distribute mechanical stresses, preventing the blocker ring from separating under varying air pressures and velocities while maintaining effective air flow control.
2Reliability
If the leading edge is configured to control air flow, then compressed air regulation is improved, but structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The blocker ring and blocker ring support are merged into a single functional assembly that works together to provide both air flow control and structural integrity. The support structure reinforces the blocker ring at critical stress points, particularly at the leading edge where air flow control is most important. This merging of functions allows the assembly to effectively regulate compressed air while maintaining the structural strength needed to withstand varying operational conditions.
3Quantity of substance
If the blocker ring protrudes further into the inlet opening, then air flow restriction increases, but the risk of fretting and bending increases
Solution Approach 1:
The blocker ring support acts as an intermediary structure between the blocker ring and the inlet opening. It provides additional mechanical support that distributes the stresses generated by air flow restriction across a larger area. This intermediary support reduces concentrated stresses at the blocker ring, thereby reducing the risk of fretting and bending even when the ring protrudes further into the inlet opening to increase air flow restriction.
Data Source
AI summary
An air blocker ring assembly including a proximal end and a distal end, a blocker ring, and a blocker ring support cooperating with the blocker ring to form a circumferentially extending split line at an interface between the blocker ring and the blocker ring support. The proximal end of the proximal ring assembly has a circumferential leading edge, and the circumferentially extending split line is located at least one of radially inside or radially outside the leading edge.