Composite blade root structure
US7972114B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 4, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jul 5, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 23, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T50/60
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A spar of a rotor blade having moderate depth transitions to a relatively much deeper shank over a relatively short distance. This rapid transition enables a low-weight blade root that is structurally efficient, offers a high moment capability, and enables high Mach number axial flow. A transition could advantageously reduce section depth by at least 15%, 20%, 30%, or even 40% over at most 5%, 6%, 10%, or 12% of a total length of the rotor blade. Such a transition could advantageously be accomplished using a cuff, which has interfaces with each of the spar and the shank. The rotor blade shank has a generally circular cross-section which allows for a rotary attachment to a hub, where the attachment may advantageously comprise a mechanical or elastomeric bearing. Preferred embodiments have a spar with a generally rectangular cross-section.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.