Gas Turbine Compressor Annulus Filler Retention Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing design for gas turbine engine compressor rotor assemblies requires complex and time-consuming processes to remove annulus fillers, necessitating the removal of the nose cone and front attachment disc for replacement or inspection.
Innovation Solution
A rotor assembly with a securing arrangement that biases the annulus filler onto the rotor disc but allows for easy removal by releasing the retaining hooks using resilient components, enabling the annulus filler to be snapped in and out of place without disassembling other components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the annulus filler is secured using a front attachment disc that is bolted into place, then the annulus filler is reliably retained on the rotor disc, but the removal process becomes complex and time-consuming requiring disassembly of the nose cone and attachment disc
Solution Approach 1:
The securing arrangement is divided into multiple independent retaining means: a first retaining means at the forward end of the annulus filler and a second retaining means at the rear end. This segmentation allows the annulus filler to be retained reliably through multiple engagement points while enabling simplified removal by independently disengaging each retaining means without requiring complete disassembly of the attachment disc or nose cone.
Solution Approach 2:
The second retaining means incorporates a resilient portion that provides a biasing force, creating a dynamic securing arrangement. The annulus filler is biased into a condition where the securing arrangement mechanically retains it, but can be moved against this bias for removal. This dynamic mechanism maintains reliable retention during operation while allowing controlled removal when needed.
2Reliability
If the annulus filler is designed with integral platforms manufactured as a single unit with rotor blades, then the airflow surface is smooth and structurally sound, but the annulus filler cannot be replaced independently and increases manufacturing complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The annulus filler is designed as a separate component from the rotor blades, with the rotor blades having platforms that form part of the inner wall and the annulus filler providing additional sections. This segmentation allows the annulus filler to be manufactured independently from the rotor blades, enabling independent replacement while maintaining a continuous smooth airflow surface when assembled together.
Solution Approach 2:
The annulus filler serves multiple functions: it provides additional smooth airflow surface sections, can be independently replaced when damaged, and works in conjunction with the rotor blade platforms to form the complete inner wall of the rotor air annulus. This multi-functionality is achieved through the securing arrangement that integrates separate components into a unified structure.
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 solution simplifies the removal process, reducing time and complexity, while allowing for independent replacement of annulus fillers, and potentially lowering manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
The annulus filler may include a resilient portion which provides the bias for the securing arrangement. The resilient portion may comprise a springy piece of material which forms part of the annulus filler.
Data Source
AI summary
A rotor assembly for a gas turbine engine compressor includes a rotor disc for mounting a plurality of radially extending rotor blades for rotation thereon, an annulus filler for securing to the disc to provide a radially inner airflow surface for air passing through the rotor assembly and a securing arrangement for securing the annulus filler to the rotor disc, the annulus filler being configured such that it is biased into a condition in which the securing arrangement mechanically retains the annulus filler on the disc, but is movable against its bias to allow the annulus filler to be removed from the disc.