Variable Inlet Guide Vanes Assembly Simplification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current variable inlet guide vane systems for turbomachines, such as centrifugal compressors, are complex and difficult to assemble and install, necessitating a simpler and faster mounting process.
Innovation Solution
A variable inlet guide vane device comprising a disc-shaped member and an annular member, coaxial and forming a unit with pivotally mounted inlet guide vanes, allowing for easier assembly and testing before mounting in the turbomachine.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional variable inlet guide vane systems are used, then the turbomachine can operate efficiently at different speeds, but the assembly and installation process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The variable inlet guide vane system is divided into multiple independent vanes that can be individually adjusted. Each vane is segmented from the others, allowing independent positioning to optimize airflow at different operating speeds without complicating the overall assembly process
Solution Approach 2:
The inlet guide vanes are designed to be dynamically adjustable during operation. The vanes can change their inclination angle to adapt to varying rotary speeds, maintaining optimal efficiency while using a relatively simple fixed support structure
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional variable inlet guide vane systems are used, then the turbomachine can operate efficiently at different speeds, but the installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The inlet guide vanes are pre-positioned and pre-adjusted during manufacturing to their optimal angles for different operating conditions. This preliminary action eliminates the need for time-consuming field adjustments during installation, allowing quick mounting while preserving the ability to operate efficiently at various speeds
3Productivity
If simplified inlet guide vane assembly is used, then assembly and installation become faster, but the ability to maintain efficiency at varying speeds may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple simple, identical vane segments rather than one complex integrated structure. This segmentation allows rapid assembly while each segment independently maintains its aerodynamic function for efficiency at different speeds
Solution Approach 2:
The vanes incorporate a simple mechanical adjustment mechanism that enables dynamic angle changes during operation. This maintains adaptability to varying speeds while keeping the overall assembly simple and fast to install
Data Source
AI summary
The variable inlet guide vane device comprises a disc-shaped member and an annular member coaxial to disc-shaped member and forming a unit therewith. A set of variable inlet guide vanes are pivotally mounted between the disc-shaped member and the annular member. Each variable inlet guide vane comprises a first pivoting pin and a second pivoting pin. The first pivoting pin is pivotally supported by a first bearing housed in the disc-shaped member and the second pivoting pin is pivotally supported by a second bearing housed in the annular member.