Variable Pitch Diffuser Vane Guide Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing designs for turbine engine compressors with single-piece casings complicate the installation of compressor components and require larger radial sizes due to the need for sufficient space for axial keys, leading to increased complexity and reduced performance.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a first ring with a radial collar, a second ring, and a resilient clamping ring that forms an inner ring extending over 360°, allowing for easy installation of variable pitch diffuser vanes with reduced radial size by using outwardly open sockets and axial clamping to secure the rings together.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If a single-piece casing is used to reduce weight and increase performance, then weight is reduced and performance is improved, but the complexity of installing compressor components increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The inner ring is segmented into two separate rings that can be assembled independently and then joined together through the clamping ring mechanism, allowing for easier installation of compressor components while maintaining the single-piece casing structure
Solution Approach 2:
The two rings are nested together with the clamping ring providing axial clamping to secure the assembly, enabling the rings to be installed separately and then locked together to form a complete inner ring structure
2Strength
If axial keys are used to secure rings together, then the rings can be securely clamped, but the radial size of the assembly increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping mechanism transitions from radial keys to axial clamping, moving the clamping force from the radial dimension to the axial dimension. The clamping ring applies axial force to secure the two rings together, eliminating the need for radial keys and reducing radial size
3Reliability
If sufficient spacing is provided between vane guide pivots to accommodate axial keys, then the keys can be installed without cracks, but the radial size of the device increases
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping mechanism moves from radial key insertion to axial clamping, eliminating the need for radial space for keys. The clamping ring applies axial force to secure the rings together, preventing cracks without requiring increased radial spacing between pivots
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
Enables easy installation of diffuser vanes on a single-piece inner ring while reducing the radial size of the assembly, preventing cracks, and simplifying the assembly process.
Implementation Method 1
a resilient clamping ring for co-operating with one of the rings in order to clamp the two rings axially one against the other
Data Source
AI summary
A device for guiding variable pitch diffuser vanes of a turbine engine is provided. The device includes a first ring having an axial portion at its periphery that is extended by a collar extending radially outwards; a second ring mounted around the axial portion of the first ring so as to cooperate therewith to define a plurality of outwardly open sockets; a plurality of cylindrical bushings, each mounted in a respective socket for the purpose of receiving a guide pivot of a diffuser vane; and a resilient clamping ring for cooperating with one of the rings in order to clamp the two rings axially one against the other.