VARIABLE VANE DEVICES CONTAINING ROTATIONALLY-DRIVEN TRANSLATING VANE STRUCTURES AND METHODS FOR THE PRODUCTION THEREOF

Variable vane devices containing rotationally-driven translating vane structures are provided, as are methods for fabricating variable vane devices. In one embodiment, the variable vane device includes a flow assembly having a centerline, an annular flow passage extending through the flow assembly, cam mechanisms, and rotationally-driven translating vane structures coupled to the flow assembly and rotatable relative thereto. The translating vane structures include vane bodies positioned within the annular flow passage and angularly spaced about the centerline. During operation of the variable vane device, the cam mechanisms adjust translational positions of the vane bodies within the annular flow passage in conjunction with rotation of the translating vane structures relative to the flow assembly. By virtue of the translational movement of the translating vane structures, a reduction in the clearances between the vane bodies and neighboring flow assembly surfaces can be realized to reduce end gap leakage and boost device performance.