Oil Separator Cover Retention Without Bolts or Welding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing designs for decectors in turbomachines are either cumbersome due to bolted assemblies, or complicated due to axial retention mechanisms, which complicate assembly and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
The design features a hub and lid assembly where the lid is retained by stop faces without any fixing means, allowing for a lightweight, easily removable, and simplified assembly on the free air tree, with improved cohesion between the hub and the cover.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the cover is bolted to the hub, then the assembly is held securely in place, but the assembly becomes heavier and more complex to assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the bolts entirely from the assembly, extracting the fastening elements that caused weight increase and assembly complexity. The cover and hub are designed with complementary geometries that provide secure mounting without any separate fastening components.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting function is merged into the geometric design of the cover and hub themselves. The interlocking shapes of these two components provide the securing function that previously required separate bolts, eliminating the need for additional parts while maintaining structural integrity.
2Strength
If the cover is welded to the hub, then the assembly is strong and secure, but the cover can no longer be removed
Solution Approach 1:
The assembly is segmented into separable components (cover and hub) that can be easily assembled and disassembled. The geometric interlocking design provides sufficient strength during operation while allowing complete separation when needed for maintenance or repair, avoiding the permanent bond of welding.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between cover and hub transitions from a static welded joint to a dynamic geometric interlock that can adapt during assembly and disassembly. The components engage securely during operation but can be easily separated when required, providing both strength and flexibility.
3Reliability
If multiple axial retention mechanisms are used, then the elements are securely retained on the vent shaft, but the arrangement becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes unnecessary axial retention mechanisms from the design. A single, well-placed abutment face on the vent shaft is sufficient to retain the hub axially, eliminating the need for multiple pins, stop faces, or other retention elements that complicated previous designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The vent shaft is designed with a universal abutment face that serves the dual function of supporting the hub axially and providing a mounting reference. This single feature performs multiple roles that previously required separate components, simplifying the overall arrangement while maintaining reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides a lightweight, easily removable, and simplified assembly that maintains excellent cohesion between the hub and the cover, facilitating easier maintenance and operation while avoiding the complexities of traditional designs.
Implementation Method 1
which is deposited on the walls of the honeycomb when the vent shaft rotates the oil separator
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
The oil separator (4') comprises a hub (5) mounted on the vent shaft (1) and a cover (8') mounted on the hub (5) between two thrust faces (3, 14) which allow it to not be attached by welding or bolting.