Spinner Push Out Stud Joint for Turbine Engine Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for attaching and disassembling spinners in gas turbine engine fan assemblies are costly, prone to damage, and require specialized tools, increasing the risk of surface damage during disassembly.
Innovation Solution
The use of spinner push out stud joints with collar studs and threaded sleeves, featuring different shank diameters and radial clearances, allows for secure attachment and easy disassembly without specialized tools, utilizing low-friction washers and anti-rotation mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If jack-screw removal method is used, then spinner can be detached, but there is high risk of spinner surface damage and requires special tools
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system is segmented into multiple components: the stud with collar assembly, the insert with internal threads, and the spinner support with counterbore. This segmentation allows the stud to be pushed out axially through the counterbore during disassembly, eliminating the need for jack-screws and special tools while reducing surface damage risk
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using jack-screws that pull the spinner apart (which risk surface damage), the invention uses studs that push the spinner away from the support during disassembly. This inversion of the disassembly mechanism eliminates the need for special tools and reduces damage risk
2Productivity
If scallop method is used, then spinner can be detached, but special tool is required and surface damage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The stud with collar assembly serves multiple functions: it fastens the spinner to the support during operation, and acts as a push-out tool during disassembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate special tools, simplifying the device and improving productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The stud assembly is designed to serve itself during disassembly - the collar on the stud automatically engages with the counterbore shoulder and pushes the spinner away when the nut is removed. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external special tools
3Strength
If jack-screw inserts are used, then attachment is achieved, but inserts can be damaged and require increased hole size
Solution Approach 1:
The counterbore is designed with a shoulder that provides a stopping point for the stud collar, preventing the stud from being over-pushed and damaging the insert or spinner. This beforehand cushioning protects the insert from damage and eliminates the need to increase hole size
Data Source
AI summary
An aircraft spinner assembly includes collar stud joints connecting spinner to forward flange connected to fan rotor disk. Collar stud joint is operable to push out spinner when stud is un-torqued. Collar may be attached to stud disposed through spinner bolt hole in spinner and collar disposed in counterbore of spinner bolt hole. An aft stud thread on collar stud may be threaded into aft nut which may be swaged into flange bolt hole in forward flange. A washer may be in counterbore between collar and spinner and made from low friction and/or sacrificial material. A forward radial clearance may surround stud between stud and spinner. A forward nut may be threaded onto forward stud threads on forward end of the collar stud and abut spinner. External aft stud threads may be on collar studs and threaded into internal flange threads within flange bolt holes in forward flange.