Unducted Propeller Engine Reinforcing Shell Pipe Integration

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Solution Overview

Problem

The integration of service networks in unducted propeller turboshaft engines is hindered by reinforcing shells that restrict space and require numerous holes, leading to mechanical weakness and leakage issues.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating pipe segments into the reinforcing shell's wall allows for a more compact configuration, reducing the need for external pipes and holes, enhancing mechanical strength and leakproofing by integrating large pipes and those requiring large bends within the wall itself.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a reinforcing shell is added to strengthen the gas generator, then mechanical strength is improved, but the available volume for service networks is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemechanical strengthVSAvoidavailable volume

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the reinforcing shell with service network passages by integrating pipes and cables directly into the shell structure. The shell serves dual functions: providing mechanical reinforcement and housing service networks, thereby eliminating the conflict between strength enhancement and volume availability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If holes are created in the reinforcing shell for service passages, then service integration is enabled, but mechanical strength and leakproofing are weakened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveservice integrationVSAvoidmechanical strength

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary approach by creating sealed passages through the reinforcing shell rather than simple holes. These passages are designed with proper sealing mechanisms that allow service networks to pass through while maintaining the shell's structural integrity and leakproof properties.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of manufacture

If pipes are routed outside the reinforcing shell, then service passage is simplified, but overall volume and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveservice passageVSAvoidnetwork complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the nesting principle by routing service pipes and cables through passages embedded within the reinforcing shell structure itself. This nested configuration allows services to be integrated into the shell's wall thickness, reducing external complexity while maintaining ease of installation and maintenance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Data Source

PatentUS10400632B2Unducted propeller turboshaft engine provided with a reinforcing shell integrating pipe segments

Publication Date: 2019.09.03 SAFRAN AIRCRAFT ENGINES SAS

AI summary

An airplane unducted propeller turboshaft engine having a gas generator and a receiver including a propulsion assembly carrying least one propeller, the engine including a first casing, a second casing, and a third casing, the third casing being provided between the first and second casings and surrounding at least a portion of the gas generator, a reinforcing shell presenting a first attachment zone mounted on the first casing, second attachment zone mounted on the second casing, and a wall provided between the first and second attachment zones and surrounding the third casing, wherein the reinforcing shell further includes at least one pipe segment integrated in the wall.