Epicyclic Gear Carrier Support Plenum for Multi-Mode Lubrication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current aircraft propulsion system geartrains and support systems face limitations in efficiency and flexibility, particularly in managing rotational power distribution between multiple propulsor rotors and handling different flight modes, which affects propulsion efficiency and lubrication.
Innovation Solution
The engine assembly incorporates a geartrain with an epicyclic gear system, a lubricant circuit, and a support structure that includes a plenum and fluid damper, allowing for flexible power distribution and lubrication across multiple propulsor rotors and flight modes, with a compliant coupling for radial shifting and rotational support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional geartrain support system is used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but propulsion efficiency and lubrication performance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the rotating structure, delivers lubricant through integrated passages, and manages debris removal. This multi-functional integration improves propulsion efficiency without proportionally increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
A plenum chamber is introduced as an intermediary component between the support structure and rotating structure. This plenum serves as a fluid distribution medium that efficiently delivers lubricant to multiple gear components while maintaining structural integrity, thereby improving power transfer efficiency.
2Adaptability or versatility
If rotational speed varies across flight modes, then adaptability is improved, but lubrication consistency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The lubricant delivery system is designed to maintain continuous lubrication throughout the entire rotation cycle of the gear components. The support structure includes passages that ensure lubricant reaches all meshing gears regardless of rotational speed variations across different flight modes, maintaining reliable lubrication consistency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic lubrication delivery where lubricant flow and distribution adapt to varying operational conditions. The plenum chamber and support structure passages work together to ensure consistent lubrication whether the system operates in single-rotor or dual-rotor modes, accommodating dynamic flight mode changes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple propulsor rotors are used, then power distribution flexibility is improved, but system complexity and wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses fluid dynamics principles where the plenum chamber and support structure passages create controlled fluid flow patterns. This hydraulic approach enables smooth power distribution between multiple rotors and reduces mechanical impact and wear on gear components during mode transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure incorporates features that cushion and protect gear components from excessive wear before damage occurs. The integrated lubrication system delivers protective lubricant in advance to gear meshing points, and the plenum chamber design reduces shock loads on components during rotor engagement and disengagement.
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
This configuration enhances propulsion efficiency by optimizing power transfer and lubrication across various flight modes, reducing wear and maintaining rotor rotation for lubrication and debris prevention, even during stationary phases.
Implementation Method 1
The plenum fluidly couples the support structure passage to the rotating structure passage
Implementation Method 2
The support structure includes a fluid damper... providing rotational support for the rotating structure
Data Source
AI summary
An engine assembly is provided that includes a geartrain, a rotating structure and a support structure. The geartrain includes a sun gear, a ring gear, a plurality of intermediate gears and a carrier. The intermediate gears are arranged circumferentially about the axis in an array. Each of the intermediate gears are radially between and meshed with the sun gear and the ring gear. Each of the intermediate gears is rotatably mounted to the carrier. The carrier is rotatable about the axis. The rotating structure forms the carrier. The rotating structure includes a shaft and a rotating structure passage. The support structure circumscribes the shaft with a plenum formed by and radially between the support structure and the shaft. The support structure includes a support structure passage. The plenum fluidly couples the support structure passage to the rotating structure passage.