Fan Platform Radial Tangential Retention Low Hub Ratio
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bladed wheel platforms face challenges in achieving a low hub ratio while ensuring effective sealing and integration, as traditional attachment methods, such as screws or hooks, are restrictive and can create gaps difficult to seal, especially at varying operating conditions.
Innovation Solution
A bladed wheel platform with a flow passage wall made of composite materials, featuring radial and tangential retention means, including sliding connections with circumferential lands and a single pin for pivot connection, which allows for a low hub ratio and simplified assembly while maintaining mechanical integrity and sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional attachment methods (screws or hooks) are used to attach the platform to the disc, then the platform can be securely attached, but the hub ratio increases and sealing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into multiple retention means distributed around the platform perimeter, each providing localized attachment points. This segmentation allows the platform to be securely attached without requiring a bulky centralized structure, thereby maintaining low hub ratio while ensuring attachment stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention means are nested within the platform structure itself, with retention features integrated into the platform wall rather than being separate external components. This nesting eliminates the need for additional bulky attachment hardware, reducing hub ratio while maintaining secure attachment capability.
2Strength
If multiple screws or hooks are used for platform attachment, then secure attachment is achieved, but assembly complexity increases and sealing clearance is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple retention means are merged into a unified attachment system where all retention features work together through a single assembly motion. The platform attaches to the disc by one axial movement that engages all retention means simultaneously, eliminating complex multi-step assembly procedures while maintaining secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention means are designed with universal geometric features that allow simple engagement without specialized assembly tools or procedures. The same retention feature structure is repeated around the platform, providing multi-functional attachment capability that simplifies the overall assembly process.
3Strength
If traditional attachment methods are used, then the platform can be attached, but gaps are created that are difficult to seal
Solution Approach 1:
The retention means create localized contact points between the platform and disc rather than distributed gaps. By concentrating the attachment interface at specific radial positions, the design ensures that sealing surfaces remain in close contact, eliminating gaps that would be difficult to seal while maintaining sufficient attachment stability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a platform for a fan assembly, comprising a flow passage wall extending in an axial direction having an upstream end and a downstream end, and comprising two axial stiffeners. The platform comprises radial retention means positioned at the upstream end and at the downstream end of the flow passage wall, the radial retention means being designed to each define a sliding connection with a corresponding shroud of the fan assembly and in that it comprises tangential retention means designed to define a sliding pivot connection between the platform and a disc of the fan assembly.