Variable Camber Vane Flexible Cover Sealing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas turbine engines face challenges in optimizing vane orientation to accommodate varying operating conditions, leading to inefficiencies in air flow and energy transfer between the compressor and turbine sections.
Innovation Solution
A vane assembly comprising a fixed airfoil portion and a rotatable airfoil portion, sealed by a flexible silicone cover that extends between them, allowing for independent rotation and reduced air leakage, with the rotatable airfoil portion rotating about an axis through its center and the flexible cover conforming to varying positions to maintain efficient airflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a variable camber vane assembly is implemented to optimize airflow under different operating conditions, then operational efficiency is improved, but air leakage between the fixed and rotatable airfoil portions increases
Solution Approach 1:
A flexible cover made of silicone material is used to seal the axial gap between the fixed airfoil portion and the rotatable airfoil portion. The flexible nature of the cover allows it to conform to the varying positions of the rotatable portion while maintaining an effective seal, thus preventing air leakage without restricting the camber variation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible cover acts as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between the fixed and rotatable airfoil portions. It provides a sealing interface that accommodates the relative motion between these two portions, enabling the variable camber mechanism to function while minimizing energy loss through leakage
2Loss of energy
If a rigid seal is used to prevent air leakage between airfoil portions, then air leakage is reduced, but the ability of the rotatable portion to vary camber is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The silicone cover provides flexibility that allows the rotatable airfoil portion to vary its camber freely. The material's elastic properties enable the cover to deform and return to its original shape, accommodating the full range of motion required for camber adjustment while maintaining sealing effectiveness throughout the motion range
3Loss of energy
If a complex sealing mechanism is implemented to minimize air leakage, then air leakage is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible cover provides a simple yet effective sealing solution that eliminates the need for complex mechanical sealing arrangements. The single-piece silicone construction requires no moving parts, adjustment mechanisms, or multiple components, thereby minimizing device complexity while achieving the desired sealing performance
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible cover is designed as a simple, easily replaceable component made from cost-effective silicone material. This approach prioritizes functional simplicity and ease of maintenance over long-term durability, allowing for straightforward replacement if needed while keeping the overall system simple and cost-effective
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 solution enhances the operational efficiency of gas turbine engines by minimizing air leakage and adapting to different operating conditions, thereby improving energy transfer and reducing thrust specific fuel consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible cover made of a silicone material may extend between the fixed airfoil portion and the rotatable airfoil portion
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a vane assembly (80) including a fixed airfoil portion (82A) that extends between a radially inner platform (84) and radially outer platform (86) and has a pressure side (96A) and a suction side (98A). The vane assembly (80) further comprises a rotatable airfoil portion (82B) that is located aft of the fixed airfoil portion (82A) and has a pressure side (96B) and a suction side (96B). A cover (112) extends from the pressure side of the fixed airfoil portion (96A) to the pressure side of the rotatable airfoil portion (96B). Thus, leakages between the pressure side (96) and the suction side (98) are prevented or reduced. The cover (112) may comprise a tab (116) for retaining the cover in the fixed airfoil portion (82A) which comprises a slot (118) for accommodating said tab (116). Preferably, the cover (112) is placed in a recess (120).