Turbine Tip Clearance Control via Sloped Slide Block

The patent replaces traditional pneumatic actuation systems with a purely mechanical linkage system. The actuation mechanism uses a slider-crank mechanism where a sliding block moves along a curved guide path, converting lateral motion into radial movement of the air seal. This mechanical substitution eliminates complex pneumatic components while achieving rapid response to tip clearance changes.

The patent introduces a curved guide path that converts lateral translation motion into radial movement. The sliding block follows a predetermined curved trajectory, which automatically transforms the actuation direction (lateral) into the desired movement direction (radial) for the air seal. This dimensional transformation simplifies the mechanism while achieving the desired motion control.

The patent creates a dynamic adjustment mechanism where the air seal position can change in real-time in response to thermal and mechanical distortions. The mechanical linkage system allows continuous adjustment of the air seal radial position, enabling the system to adapt to changing operating conditions and component distortions during engine operation.

The curved guide path is designed to automatically compensate for thermal and mechanical distortions without requiring external control systems. As components expand or contract due to temperature and stress changes, the mechanical linkage self-adjusts the air seal position to maintain optimal tip clearance, making the system self-regulating.

The patent replaces complex pneumatic actuation systems with a purely mechanical linkage system. The actuation mechanism uses a slider-crank mechanism where a sliding block moves along a curved guide path, converting lateral motion into radial movement of the air seal. This mechanical substitution eliminates complex pneumatic components while achieving rapid response to tip clearance changes.

The patent employs a simple, cost-effective mechanical linkage system instead of expensive pneumatic actuators. The mechanism uses basic mechanical components (sliding block, curved guide, linkages) that are simpler and less costly than pneumatic systems, while still achieving the required positioning precision and response speed.