Non-Rotating Spacer Assembly for Axial Spacing and Fluid Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in maintaining an axial space between two joined parts while allowing fluid communication and preventing rotation, particularly in applications like gas turbine engines.
Innovation Solution
A non-rotating spacer with a ring structure featuring slots and lugs is used to maintain axial separation and fluid communication between parts, with lugs preventing rotation by fitting into openings, allowing easy assembly without tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spacer is used to maintain axial space between two parts, then axial separation is achieved, but the spacer may rotate which causes wear and improper alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer incorporates asymmetric features including slots at specific angular positions and lugs with varying shapes (rounded vs. sharp edges) that correspond to asymmetric openings in the mating part. This asymmetric design creates a non-rotating fit where the lugs can only engage with their corresponding openings in one orientation, preventing rotation while maintaining axial spacing.
2Reliability
If traditional spacers are used, then axial spacing is maintained, but rotation occurs causing wear and requiring precise alignment during assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric lug and opening design creates a self-aligning mechanism. During assembly, the lugs guide the spacer into the correct rotational position as they engage with the corresponding openings, eliminating the need for precise pre-alignment. The asymmetric geometry ensures proper orientation is achieved automatically during the insertion process.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer's asymmetric features perform the alignment function automatically during assembly. The lugs and openings are designed so that the spacer self-orientates to the correct position as it is installed, without requiring external alignment tools or procedures. The structure serves its own alignment function through its geometric design.
3Reliability
If a non-rotating mechanism is added to the spacer, then rotation is prevented, but assembly complexity increases requiring tools or precise alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric design of lugs and openings creates a snap-fit or interference-fit mechanism that prevents rotation inherently. The varying lug geometries (rounded vs. sharp edges) correspond to specific opening shapes, creating a mechanical lock that prevents rotational movement while allowing straightforward axial insertion during assembly.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
A non-rotating spacer (88) for use in a mating part (70) of a gas turbine engine (20), including: a ring of material (90) having a first contact surface (94) and a second contact surface (96), the first contact surface (94) being opposite to the second contact surface (96), the ring of material (90) also having an inner ring surface (98) and an outer ring surface (100); a pair of slots (92) located in the first contact surface (94), the pair of slots (92) extending from the inner ring surface (98) to the outer ring surface (100), the pair of slots (92) do not extend through to the second contact surface (96) such that the pair of slots (92) are defined by three surfaces of the ring of material (90); and at least one lug (106) protruding radially outward from the outer ring surface (100), the at least one lug (106) being located adjacent to one of the pair of slots (92).