Aircraft Propulsion Unit Sealing System for Mounting Clearance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current propulsion unit mounting methods, particularly in central positions, face challenges such as risk of shearing and difficulty in controlling axial clearance during transverse displacement, which can lead to damage and compromised sealing.
Innovation Solution
A propulsion unit with a sealing system featuring a compression ring that axially compresses an annular seal, allowing for transverse displacement of elements while maintaining sealing integrity, using a compression ring secured to one element and housing an annular seal that compresses to ensure sealing and fire protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the gas generator is displaced in transverse direction during mounting, then the gas generator can be positioned axially aligned with the air inlet, but the sealing system may be sheared or damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by providing axial mounting clearance between the gas generator and air inlet before the actual mounting operation. This clearance acts as a buffer that prevents direct contact and potential shearing of the sealing system during transverse displacement, allowing the gas generator to be safely positioned in axial alignment without damaging the seal.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing system is positioned as an intermediary element between the gas generator and air inlet, but the patent introduces the axial clearance as a mediating space that decouples the mounting motion from the sealing interface. This allows transverse displacement to occur without directly transmitting shear forces to the seal, protecting the intermediary sealing system from damage.
2Ease of operation
If axial mounting clearance is provided to allow transverse displacement, then the gas generator can be mounted, but the clearance cannot be suppressed after mounting and manufacturing tolerances make it difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the axial clearance adjustable rather than fixed. The compression ring mechanism allows the axial distance between the gas generator and air inlet to be dynamically modified after mounting, enabling operators to suppress the clearance and achieve precise positioning despite manufacturing tolerances, while maintaining the ease of initial mounting that the clearance provided.
3Ease of operation
If the sealing system is removed to allow transverse displacement, then mounting is easier, but sealing performance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by providing beforehand cushioning in the form of axial clearance that allows transverse displacement to occur without removing the sealing system. The clearance buffers the mounting motion, enabling the seal to remain in place while still permitting the necessary transverse movement for alignment, thus maintaining both ease of operation and sealing performance.
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
Facilitates easier mounting and dismounting of the propulsion unit by allowing transverse displacement without damaging the sealing system, ensuring optimal sealing and reducing maintenance risks.
Implementation Method 1
an annular seal mounted in the space and configured to be axially compressed by reduction of the axial dimension of the space
Data Source
AI summary
A propulsion unit for an aircraft includes a gas generator; an air inlet; and a sealing system inserted axially between the air inlet and the gas generator. The sealing system has at least: a compression ring with a first axial end configured for mechanical connection to one of the gas generator and the air inlet. The compression ring also has a second opposite axial end configured to be axially separated from the other of the gas generator and the air inlet by an annular space. An annular seal is mounted in the space and configured to be axially compressed by reduction of the axial dimension of said space.