Gas Turbine Engine Mounting Configuration Eliminates Thrust Link Distortion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas turbine engine mounting configurations experience distortion due to 'punch loads' from thrust links, leading to increased clearances between static and rotating components, which negatively affect engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A novel engine mounting configuration that eliminates thrust links by using a forward and aft mount system, with the aft mount transmitting thrust loads directly to the engine pylon, minimizing distortion and optimizing space within the core nacelle.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional engine mounting configuration with thrust links is used, then thrust loads can be coupled to the pylon, but engine case distortion increases leading to increased clearances and reduced performance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the thrust links from the engine mounting configuration. By eliminating these intermediate components, the thrust loads are transmitted directly from the engine case to the pylon through the mounting configuration, avoiding the distortion caused by thrust link connections while maintaining effective thrust load transmission.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a specialized mounting configuration that acts as an intermediary between the engine and pylon. This mounting configuration includes features such as bearing assemblies and support structures that facilitate direct thrust load transmission without the distortion-inducing connections of conventional thrust links, thereby maintaining both strength and precision.
2Power
If thrust links are used to couple thrust to the pylon, then thrust transmission is achieved, but fuel consumption increases due to reduced engine performance
Solution Approach 1:
By removing the thrust links from the system, the patent eliminates the source of case distortion that leads to increased clearances and reduced engine efficiency. This direct mounting approach maintains optimal blade tip clearances, ensuring the engine operates at peak efficiency and minimizing fuel consumption while preserving full thrust transmission capability.
3Ease of operation
If conventional mounting arrangement with long thrust links is used, then thrust coupling is achieved, but engine case distortion occurs affecting clearances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the long thrust links that cause distortion. By extracting these components, the engine case maintains its intended shape and structural integrity, while the mounting configuration provides effective thrust coupling through alternative means such as direct bearing support and pylon integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical thrust link connection system with a direct mounting configuration that uses bearing assemblies and support structures. This substitution eliminates the distortion-causing mechanical connections while maintaining the essential thrust coupling function through a different mechanical approach that preserves case integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A gas turbine engine includes a spool along an engine centerline axis which drives a gear train, said spool includes a low pressure compressor with four (4) stages.