Variable-Positionable Couplings for Dynamic Tube Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tube connection systems in aircraft and engines, such as Coanda systems, face premature failure due to inability to withstand dynamic loads, vibrations, and axial torque, leading to system leakage and efficiency decreases.
Innovation Solution
A tube connection system featuring variable-positionable couplings that allow for sealing movement to compensate for thermal expansion, lateral, angular, and rotational movements, secured via welding or brazing, and configured to withstand structural, dynamic, and vibration loads, with each coupling capable of axial, lateral, and angular articulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If bellows joints are used to connect tube segments, then flexibility to accommodate movement is improved, but reliability under dynamic loads and vibrations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system employs dynamic sealing elements that can move and adjust their position in real-time to accommodate thermal expansion, lateral displacement, angular articulation, and rotational movement while maintaining sealing integrity under varying load conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the physical parameters of the sealing interface by using compliant sealing elements that can deform and adapt their geometry to maintain contact and sealing under dynamic loads, vibrations, and multi-axis movements
2Reliability
If carbon seals are used in tube connections, then sealing capability is improved, but resistance to dynamic loads and vibrations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling system uses composite construction combining rigid structural components for strength and load-bearing with flexible sealing elements for sealing capability, creating a hybrid structure that withstands dynamic loads while maintaining seal integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing mechanism incorporates dynamic elements that can move and adjust under load, allowing the seal to maintain contact and sealing effectiveness while the rigid structure absorbs and distributes dynamic loads and vibrations
3Strength
If rigid tube connections are used, then structural strength is improved, but ability to compensate for thermal expansion and movement deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The tube system is divided into segmented sections connected by flexible couplings, allowing each segment to be structurally strong while the coupling between segments provides flexibility to accommodate thermal expansion and multi-axis movements
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid tube segments maintain structural strength in their respective locations, while the coupling regions are designed with localized flexibility and compliance to accommodate movement and thermal expansion without compromising overall system strength
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 system effectively compensates for various movements and loads, reducing the risk of failure and maintaining system integrity and efficiency by allowing for flexible and secure connections between tube segments.
Implementation Method 1
The variable-positionable couplings allow sealing movement to compensate for thermal expansion
Data Source
AI summary
A tube connection system for an engine or aircraft includes a Coanda ring defining an annular tube segment which has a branch tube segment extending therefrom. A supply tube assembly defines a plurality of tube segments. Adjacent tube segments are moveably coupled to one another by one of a plurality of variable-positionable couplings. Another of the plurality of tube segments is moveably coupled to the branch segment by another of the plurality of variable-positionable couplings.