Multi-function Boss Turbine Exhaust Case Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Turbine exhaust cases in gas turbine engines face challenges in efficiently integrating structural support and high-temperature airflow path definitions while accommodating service lines for cooling and lubrication, often requiring complex architectures and materials that are costly and difficult to manufacture.
Innovation Solution
A turbine exhaust case frame design featuring an inner ring, outer ring, and load-bearing struts with multi-function bosses that incorporate service line apertures and mounting points, allowing for a unified structure that supports shaft loads and airflow while providing passages for service lines through the struts, simplifying the integration of cooling and lubrication systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate structures are used for structural support and high-temperature airflow path definition, then each function can be optimized independently, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the structural support function and high-temperature airflow path definition into a single integrated turbine exhaust case structure. The exhaust case simultaneously serves as both the structural frame and the fairing that defines the core flow path, eliminating the need for separate structural and thermal components. This merging reduces part count, simplifies manufacturing, and lowers cost while maintaining functional performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The turbine exhaust case is designed as a multi-functional component that performs both structural support and thermal protection functions. The same structure that provides mechanical strength also defines the high-temperature gas path, making the component universal in its functionality and eliminating the need for separate specialized components.
2Device complexity
If service lines are integrated into the turbine exhaust case, then cooling and lubrication systems are simplified, but the structural integrity and high-temperature capability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The service line passages are strategically located within specific regions of the turbine exhaust case where they can be accommodated without compromising the overall structural integrity. The passages are positioned to provide cooling and lubrication where needed while maintaining the strength and high-temperature capability of the critical load-bearing areas of the exhaust case.
Data Source
AI summary
A turbine exhaust case frame (100) comprises an inner ring (104), an outer ring (102), and a plurality of load-bearing struts (106). The inner ring is configured to carry load from inner bearings. The outer ring features a multi-function boss (116) with a service line aperture (124) and a mounting point for the turbine exhaust case. The load-bearing struts connect the inner ring to the outer ring, and have a service line passage (128) extending from the service line aperture to the inner ring.