Turbine Strain Sensor Mounting for Accurate Compressive Transfer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing strain sensing systems in gas turbine engines are inadequate for accurately measuring mechanical strain, which is crucial for ensuring safe operation and monitoring component health.
Innovation Solution
A strain sensing assembly is affixed to turbine engine components, comprising a strain sensing element bonded to a sensor substrate, held in place by fixture pins, and using a bonding material to transfer compressive strain, with optional wireless signal transmission for real-time monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing strain sensing systems are used in gas turbine engines, then the systems can provide basic strain measurement capability, but the measurement precision is inadequate for accurately measuring mechanical strain
Solution Approach 1:
The strain sensing system is segmented into distinct functional components: fixture pins for mechanical attachment, sensor substrate for strain transfer, and strain sensing element for measurement. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall measurement precision while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
A sensor substrate is introduced as an intermediary between the turbine engine component and the strain sensing element. This substrate properly transfers strain from the component to the sensing element, enabling accurate strain measurement that neither direct attachment nor existing systems could achieve
2Measurement precision
If a strain sensing assembly with fixture pins and bonding material is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions are merged into the sensor substrate: it serves as the bonding interface between fixture pins and the component, the strain transfer medium, and the mounting base for the sensing element. This consolidation improves measurement precision while reducing overall device complexity by eliminating separate components for each function
3Measurement precision
If compressive strain transfer through bonding material is used, then strain measurement accuracy is enhanced, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bonding material is selected and applied with specific parameter controls: appropriate bond line thickness, proper curing temperature, and controlled compressive preload through fixture pins. By optimizing these parameters, accurate strain transfer is achieved while keeping manufacturing precision requirements within practical limits
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
The assembly provides precise strain measurements, enabling effective engine control and health monitoring by determining temperature, strain, frequency, or torque, enhancing safety and performance.
Implementation Method 1
A sensor substrate can be located in the capture pocket and held in place by compressive strain between the first fixture pin, second fixture pin, and turbine engine component. A strain sensing element can be bonded to the sensor substrate.
Implementation Method 2
In one form a bonding material is located between the first fixture pin and turbine engine component, where the compressive strain is transferred through the bonding material.
Data Source
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AI summary
A strain sensing assembly (202) includes a sensor substrate (208) bonded to a strain sensing element (206), where the sensor substrate (208) is captured in a capture pocket (215) formed by a first fixture pin (212) and a second fixture pin (214) with a turbine engine component. A bonding material may be disposed in the capture pocket (215) to affix the sensor substrate (208) to the turbine engine component and first fixture pin (212)/second fixture pin (214). In some forms, the bonding material is located between the first fixture pin (212) and the sensor substrate (208). Compressive strain from the first fixture pin (212) can be transferred through the bonding material to the sensor substrate (208). In other forms, the sensor substrate (208) is in direct mechanical contact with the first fixture pin (212). Compressive strain from the first fixture pin (212) can be transferred directly to the sensor substrate (208).