Turbomachine Inner Ring Segmented Vane Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing inner rings for annular guide vane assemblies in turbomachines have low mechanical strength and aerodynamic load-bearing capability due to their elastic deformability, leading to flow losses and efficiency impairments in turbomachines.
Innovation Solution
An inner ring design featuring two securing rings connected by axially disposed securing elements with radially projecting vane bearings, eliminating the need for elastic deformability and enhancing mechanical and aerodynamic load-bearing capabilities, while allowing for reduced vane pitch and potentially shorter axial lengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the inner ring is made elastically deformable to enable assembly of guide vanes, then the assembly process is simplified, but the mechanical strength and aerodynamic load-bearing capability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The inner ring is divided into multiple individual ring segments that are positioned around the guide vanes. Each segment can be independently assembled and then the segments are connected to form the complete inner ring structure, eliminating the need for elastic deformation during assembly while maintaining structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The securing function and vane bearing function are merged into a single securing element that includes both a securing portion (for connecting ring segments) and a vane bearing portion (for rotatably supporting the guide vane). This integration eliminates the need for separate elastic components while providing both assembly and support functions
2Ease of manufacture
If the inner ring is made elastically deformable to facilitate assembly, then assembly is enabled, but flow losses increase and efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The inner ring is segmented into multiple rigid segments that can be assembled around the guide vanes and then connected. This segmentation allows assembly without elastic deformation, ensuring the ring maintains its rigid structure during operation to prevent flow losses and maintain efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of making the ring itself elastically deformable to enable assembly, the invention inverts the approach by using individually positionable rigid segments that are connected after positioning. This inversion allows the ring to remain rigid throughout operation, eliminating flow losses associated with elastic deformation
3Ease of manufacture
If the inner ring is made elastically deformable, then assembly is possible, but the power output and surge line are impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The inner ring is divided into multiple rigid segments that can be assembled around the guide vanes and then connected using securing elements. This segmentation enables assembly without requiring elastic deformability, ensuring the ring maintains its structural rigidity to support high power output and stable surge line characteristics
Solution Approach 2:
The invention inverts the conventional approach by not making the ring itself elastically deformable. Instead, rigid segments are positioned and connected, allowing the ring to maintain its rigid structure for optimal power output and surge line performance while still enabling assembly
Data Source
AI summary
An inner ring (14) for an annular guide vane assembly (10) of a turbomachine, which inner ring enables variable guide vanes (12) to be rotatably supported is provided. The inner ring (14) includes a first and a second securing ring (16a, 16b) which are connected together by at least one securing element (18) extending axially with respect to a centerline (M) of the inner ring (14). The at least one securing element (18) includes a vane bearing (20) which projects radially with respect to the centerline (M) and which corresponds to an associated guide vane (12) and is adapted for rotatably supporting the same. A method for manufacturing an annular guide vane assembly (10) of a turbomachine using such an inner ring (14) is also provided.