Variable Guide Vane Assembly Leakage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional variable guide vanes in gas turbine engines suffer from leakage at the interfaces between rotatable vanes and static flow assemblies, leading to reduced engine efficiency and airflow anomalies.
Innovation Solution
A variable guide vane assembly with rotational-translational mechanisms (RT mechanisms) that allow vanes to pivot and translate linearly, maintaining optimal clearance gaps between vane edges and the shroud and hub surfaces, thereby minimizing leakage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional variable guide vanes are used with fixed clearances, then the structure is simple, but leakage occurs at the interfaces between rotatable vanes and static flow assemblies, reducing engine efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from fixed clearances to dynamic, adjustable clearances. The variable guide vane assembly incorporates a clearance control mechanism that allows the radial position of the vane relative to the hub and shroud to be adjusted. This enables the clearance to vary dynamically based on operating conditions, minimizing leakage while maintaining structural integrity and avoiding contact between components.
2Loss of energy
If vane clearance is minimized to reduce leakage, then engine efficiency improves, but contact between vane edge surfaces and shroud/hub may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying the radial clearance parameter within an optimal range. The clearance control mechanism adjusts the radial position of the variable guide vane relative to the hub and shroud, maintaining clearance within bounds that prevent contact while minimizing leakage. This dynamic parameter adjustment ensures both efficiency and reliability across different operating conditions.
3Loss of energy
If clearances are reduced to minimize leakage, then energy loss decreases, but airflow anomalies may be created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the clearance parameter to balance leakage reduction with airflow quality. The clearance control mechanism maintains clearances within an optimal range that minimizes energy loss while preventing airflow anomalies. This involves adjusting the radial position of the vane to ensure smooth airflow passage without creating turbulence or flow separation.
Data Source
AI summary
A variable guide vane assembly for a gas turbine engine stator is provided. The variable guide vane assembly includes a plurality of vanes and a plurality of RT mechanisms. The vanes extend between a shroud and hub. The vanes are circumferentially disposed and spaced apart from one another. Each vane includes inner and outer radial ends, and inner and outer radial posts. Each vane is pivotally mounted to rotate about its rotational axis. Each RT mechanism is in communication with the inner or outer radial post of a respective vane. The RT mechanism includes a pin connected to the vane that is disposed in a ramp slot non-rotational relative to the pivotable vane. The ramp slot extends between first and second lengthwise ends. Rotation of the vane relative to the ramp slot causes the pin to travel within the ramp slot and the vane to translate linearly.