Universal Nozzle Segment Hook With Anti-Rotation Slots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional nozzle segments for gas turbine engines are designed for specific models and cannot be interchangeably used across different models, leading to limited inventory and increased maintenance costs due to the need for multiple types of segments, which can result in errors and failures during installation and operation.
Innovation Solution
The nozzle segment design includes a hook with slots that can engage anti-rotation elements of multiple turbine engine configurations, allowing it to be coupled with different models of gas turbine engines while maintaining proper positioning and preventing errors, misuse, and failures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If nozzle segments are designed with specific hook configurations for different turbine engine models, then reliability and anti-rotation capability are improved, but device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The nozzle segment hook is designed with multiple slots that can accommodate anti-rotation elements from different turbine engine models. This universal design allows a single nozzle segment type to be used across multiple engine models, eliminating the need for model-specific hook configurations while maintaining reliable anti-rotation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The hook structure is divided into multiple discrete slots, each capable of receiving an anti-rotation element. This segmentation allows the same hook to adapt to different engine models by engaging different slots, providing versatility without increasing overall device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple types of nozzle segments are maintained in inventory for different turbine engine models, then adaptability to specific models is improved, but loss of substance and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single nozzle segment design with multiple slots can be used across different turbine engine models, eliminating the need to maintain separate inventories for each model. This universal design reduces inventory requirements and associated costs while maintaining adaptability to various engine types.
3Reliability
If slots are provided in the hook for anti-rotation elements, then reliability and error prevention are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hook incorporates multiple slots that can work with anti-rotation elements from different engine models, providing a universal solution that enhances reliability through error prevention without requiring separate designs for each model.
Solution Approach 2:
The slot system is segmented into multiple discrete positions, allowing the same hook structure to provide reliable anti-rotation engagement for different engine models by engaging different slots, thereby preventing installation errors without increasing overall complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A nozzle segment includes an inner band, an outer band, and at least one nozzle vane extending between the inner and outer bands. The outer band includes a hook that extends radially outwardly from an outer surface. The hook is oriented to couple to a support within different first and second turbine engines. The hook extends circumferentially across the outer surface and includes slots defined therein. A first slot includes a first circumferential load surface, and a second slot includes a second circumferential load surface. When the nozzle segment is coupled within the first turbine engine, the first circumferential load surface engages an anti-rotation element while the second circumferential load surface does not engage an anti-rotation element. When the nozzle segment is coupled within the second turbine engine, the second circumferential load surface engages an anti-rotation element while the first circumferential load surface does not engage an anti-rotation element.