Variable Pivot Center VTG Vanes for Actuation Effort Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing variable turbine geometry turbochargers require high actuation effort to maintain guide vanes in the closed position due to uneven pressure distribution, which affects efficiency and responsiveness.
Innovation Solution
A vane pack assembly with pivot centers that adjust relative to the guide vanes as they pivot between open and closed positions, utilizing an adjustment ring and vane studs to vary the angular position and balance pressure, allowing for reduced actuation effort in the closed position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the pivot post is positioned towards the leading edge of the guide vane, then aerodynamic stability and prevention of vane flutter are improved, but high actuation effort is required to maintain the guide vane in the closed position
Solution Approach 1:
The invention transitions from a fixed pivot post to a movable pivot center that can shift position along the guide vane. The pivot center is constrained to move along a predetermined path, allowing it to dynamically adjust between a first position (towards the leading edge) and a second position (towards the trailing edge) based on the operational requirements, thus resolving the contradiction between aerodynamic stability and actuation effort
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the parameter of pivot center location from a fixed value to a variable parameter that can be adjusted along a predetermined path. This allows the pivot center location to be optimized for different operating conditions - positioned towards the leading edge for aerodynamic stability during normal operation, and moved towards the trailing edge to reduce actuation effort when closing the guide vane
2Force
If the pivot post is positioned midway between the leading and trailing edges, then pressure distribution is equalized, but aerodynamic stability and prevention of vane flutter are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The movable pivot center allows the system to dynamically select between different pivot positions based on operational needs. When closing the guide vane, the pivot center can be positioned towards the trailing edge to equalize pressure distribution and reduce actuation effort. When the guide vane is in the open position, the pivot center moves towards the leading edge to ensure aerodynamic stability and prevent vane flutter
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transforms the pivot center location from a static parameter to a dynamic parameter that can be adjusted along a predetermined path. This enables the system to optimize the pivot center position for each operational phase - using positions that equalize pressure for closing operations, and positions that maximize aerodynamic stability for open position operations
Data Source
AI summary
A vane pack assembly (14) for a variable turbine geometry turbocharger is a stand-alone assembly and can be assembled and transported apart from the turbocharger. The vane pack assembly (14) includes a plurality of guide vanes (16) spaced apart in a circumferential direction and a plurality of pivot centers (38). Each one of the pivot centers (38) corresponds with one of the guide vanes (16). A location of the pivot centers (38) relative to the guide vanes (16) changes as an angular position of the guide vanes (16) is adjusted.