Frustro-conical Gas Turbine Centerbody Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas turbine engine case structures face challenges in efficiently managing torsional loads and vibration absorption due to the limitations of bolted flange joints, which can lead to kinked load paths and increased part counts, affecting rotor dynamics and stiffness.
Innovation Solution
A front center body support assembly featuring a bearing package, centering spring, flex support, and frustro-conical interface section, which provides a unified load path and reduces part count, incorporating a fastener flange for mounting the flex support and allowing access for assembly and disassembly, facilitating efficient load distribution and vibration absorption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If bolted flange joints are used to join case sections, then the joint can withstand loads transmitted through the engine static structure, but the load paths become kinked and the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple case sections into a unified structure with continuous load paths, eliminating the need for separate bolted flange joints between sections. This merging approach maintains load withstanding capability while reducing part count and eliminating kinked load paths.
2Reliability
If conventional case structures are used, then the structure can support rotor shafts, but the rotor dynamic performance and stiffness are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a frustro-conical interface section with curved geometry that provides optimal load distribution and structural stiffness. This curved interface design enhances rotor dynamic performance by creating a more rigid load path compared to conventional flat flange joints.
3Ease of operation
If fasteners are positioned for assembly access, then assembly and disassembly is facilitated, but the structural integrity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions fasteners in a forward section of the case structure where they are accessible for assembly, while the main load-bearing interface uses a frustro-conical geometry that maintains structural integrity. This local differentiation allows fastener accessibility without compromising the overall structural strength.
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 enhances rotor dynamic performance by providing a lightweight, integrated structure with improved stiffness and reduced part count, enabling efficient load management and vibration absorption, while allowing for easier assembly and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a centering spring mounted within said front center body support, the bearing package being mounted to said centering spring
Implementation Method 2
a flex support mounted within said front center body support; said front center body section includes mount features to receive the flex support
Data Source
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AI summary
A front center body support (62) for a gas turbine engine (20) includes a front center body section (72), a bearing section (74) and a frustro-conical interface section (76), the frustro-conical interface section being between the front center body section and the bearing section.