Flexure for Metering Valve Assembly Centering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing metering valve configurations for gas turbine engines face challenges in maintaining controlled and uniform fuel burn under varying operating conditions due to difficulty in igniting fuel quickly and smoothly, especially when trying to maintain fuel efficiency, and require compact packaging within tight design constraints.
Innovation Solution
A metering valve assembly incorporating a flexure that provides spring force, adjustability, and centering capabilities, with a compact design that fits within existing nozzle housings by utilizing a unique retaining feature and anti-rotation mechanism, allowing for independent fuel control at each nozzle location without increasing the housing size.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single metering valve is used to supply fuel to all fuel nozzles, then the design is simplified, but it becomes difficult to maintain controlled and uniform burn under all operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the fuel delivery system into multiple independent metering valves, each controlling a specific fuel nozzle. This segmentation allows each valve to independently regulate fuel flow to its associated nozzle, enabling precise control of fuel burn characteristics under varying operating conditions while maintaining overall system simplicity through modular design
2Reliability
If independent fuel control at each nozzle location is implemented, then controlled and uniform burn is achieved, but the housing size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the flexure assembly is integrated within the nozzle housing structure. The flexure is positioned concentrically with the nozzle axis, and its components are arranged in a compact, space-efficient configuration that fits within the existing housing envelope without requiring additional external space
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the radial dimension efficiently by positioning the flexure arms and retaining features in a radial arrangement around the nozzle axis. This dimensional optimization allows the independent control mechanism to be packed into the circular cross-section of the housing without increasing the overall housing footprint
3Area of stationary object
If a compact flexure design is used to fit within tight design constraints, then packaging efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the flexure assembly to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing spring force for valve actuation, centering the valve assembly on the nozzle axis, and incorporating retaining features for secure mounting. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall assembly process despite the compact geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the spring element, centering mechanism, and retaining features into a single integrated flexure component. This merging of functions into one part eliminates the need for separate assembly steps for these features, reducing manufacturing complexity while achieving the required compact packaging
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
The solution enables efficient and uniform fuel delivery, advancing combustion technology with improved fuel efficiency, thermal management, and engine acoustic control, while maintaining a compact and lightweight design that fits within existing engine configurations.
Implementation Method 1
A flexure for a metering valve for a gas turbine engine that provides a spring force
Implementation Method 2
A flexure for a metering valve for a gas turbine engine that provides a spring force
Data Source
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AI summary
A flexure 46 for a metering valve has a flexure body 66 defining a center axis to be aligned with a fuel nozzle. The flexure body 66 includes an outermost peripheral surface surrounding the center axis. A retaining feature 64 is formed in the flexure body 66 and is configured to mount the flexure body 66 to a metering valve component. The retaining feature 64 is located radially between the center axis and the outmost peripheral surface. A metering valve is also disclosed.