Interdigitated Turbine Bearing Layout for Rotor Vibration Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Counter-rotating or interdigitated turbine assemblies face challenges in structural support, vibration mitigation, lubricant supply, and weight increases, requiring effective bearing arrangements that manage rotor dynamics and vibrations while minimizing system complexity.
Innovation Solution
An interdigitated turbine assembly with a gear assembly and bearing system, including a first and second static frame, inner and outer rotatable components, and flexible couplings, which supports the first and second turbine rotor assemblies and mitigates vibrations through strategically positioned bearing assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If counter-rotating or interdigitated turbine assemblies are used to improve operating efficiency, then operating efficiency is improved, but structural support and vibration mitigation become more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple bearing assemblies (first bearing assembly on driveshaft, second bearing assembly on first rotor assembly, third bearing assembly connecting first and second rotor assemblies) into an integrated support system. This merging of bearing functions provides comprehensive structural support for the counter-rotating turbine assemblies while managing the complexity through a coordinated arrangement of components that work together to support both rotors and mitigate vibrations.
2Strength
If bearing assemblies are added to support counter-rotating turbine assemblies, then structural support is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bearing system is segmented into three distinct bearing assemblies, each performing specific functions: the first bearing assembly supports the driveshaft, the second bearing assembly supports the first turbine rotor assembly, and the third bearing assembly connects the first and second turbine rotor assemblies. This segmentation allows for optimized placement and function of each bearing component, providing necessary structural support while minimizing unnecessary weight through targeted support locations.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If multiple bearing assemblies are used to mitigate vibrations and rotor dynamics, then vibration control is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each bearing assembly is positioned at specific locations within the turbine system to address local vibration and support needs: the first bearing assembly at the driveshaft location, the second bearing assembly at the first turbine rotor assembly location, and the third bearing assembly at the interface between the two turbine rotor assemblies. This local quality approach ensures that each bearing assembly addresses specific vibration sources and support requirements, improving overall vibration control while maintaining manageable system complexity through targeted component placement.
Data Source
AI summary
An interdigitated turbine assembly for a gas turbine engine, the interdigitated turbine assembly including a first turbine rotor assembly interdigitated with a second turbine rotor assembly. A first static frame is positioned forward of the first turbine rotor assembly and the second turbine rotor assembly. The first turbine rotor assembly is operably coupled to an inner rotatable component of a gear assembly. The second turbine rotor assembly is operably coupled to an outer rotatable component of the gear assembly. The static structure is connected to the first static frame. A driveshaft is operably coupled to the outer rotatable component. A first bearing assembly is operably coupled to the driveshaft and the first static frame. A second bearing assembly is operably coupled to the first static frame and first turbine rotor assembly. A third bearing assembly is operably coupled to the first turbine rotor assembly and the second turbine rotor assembly.