Rotating Leaf Spring Seal for Radial Gap and Centrifugal Loads

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from a static seal ring to a rotating seal ring that can dynamically adapt to radial gap variations. The rotating seal ring incorporates a spring-loaded mechanism with leaves that can flex and adjust their position radially, allowing the seal to maintain effective contact with the mating surface despite changes in radial clearance during operation.

The patent employs parameter changes by utilizing a spring-loaded mechanism where the spring constant and leaf geometry are designed to provide appropriate radial force. The spring load can be adjusted or selected to compensate for thermal expansion, wear, and manufacturing tolerances, thereby maintaining optimal sealing pressure under varying operating conditions.

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the rotating seal ring into multiple flexible leaves instead of a single rigid structure. These segmented leaves can independently flex and deform under centrifugal loading, distributing the mechanical stresses more evenly across the seal structure. The leaves are connected through a spring mechanism that allows relative movement, further enhancing the structure's ability to withstand rotational forces.

The patent utilizes flexible shells and thin films through the spring-loaded leaf structure. The thin leaves are designed with appropriate flexibility to bend and conform under centrifugal force while maintaining sealing contact. The spring mechanism provides a flexible connection that allows the leaves to deform elastically, absorbing centrifugal loading without compromising the seal's structural integrity or sealing effectiveness.