Aircraft Engine Cradle Positioning System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for moving and installing aircraft engines are cumbersome, requiring larger and more expensive equipment, necessitating multiple operators, and often needing to be present at the installation site, which increases maintenance costs and logistical challenges.
Innovation Solution
A cradle-based system with a movement system and adjustment system, featuring a platform with wheels, actuators, and an air bearing system, allows for precise positioning and alignment of engines relative to aircraft struts, enabling efficient engine installation and removal without the need for bulky external equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional equipment (cranes, bootstrap tools) is used for engine installation, then the engine can be positioned and installed, but the equipment becomes larger and heavier than desired
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the positioning system and adjustment system into a single integrated apparatus. The positioning system moves the cradle holding the engine, while the adjustment system modifies the cradle's position relative to the positioning system, eliminating the need for separate large equipment like cranes and bootstrap tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated apparatus performs multiple functions: the positioning system transports the engine to the installation location, and the adjustment system positions the engine relative to the aircraft strut. This multi-functional design replaces multiple specialized equipment pieces with a single versatile system.
2Measurement precision
If traditional equipment is used for engine installation, then the engine can be installed, but the cost to maintain the equipment increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging positioning and adjustment functions into one apparatus, the patent reduces the total equipment footprint and complexity. This integration simplifies maintenance requirements compared to maintaining multiple separate equipment pieces like cranes, dollies, and bootstrap tools.
3Measurement precision
If traditional equipment is used for engine installation, then the engine can be installed, but more operators are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges positioning and adjustment operations into a single coordinated system, reducing the number of operators needed compared to traditional methods requiring separate teams for dolly movement, bootstrap operation, and final positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustment system dynamically modifies the cradle position relative to the positioning system during the installation process, allowing for real-time positioning adjustments without requiring additional operators or complex coordination between multiple equipment pieces.
4Adaptability or versatility
If equipment is present at the installation site for engine removal and reattachment, then maintenance can be performed, but the time and expense increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent describes an apparatus that can both install and remove engines using the same integrated system. The positioning system and adjustment system work together for engine installation, and the same systems facilitate engine removal by reversing the positioning and adjustment processes, eliminating the need for separate removal equipment.
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
This solution reduces the need for extensive equipment and operators, lowers installation costs, and allows for more efficient engine handling and positioning, facilitating easier maintenance and shipping of the engine movement system.
Implementation Method 1
The adjustment system may comprise an actuator system and air bearing system
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for moving an engine. The engine may be moved in a cradle with respect to a location on an aircraft using a movement system associated with the cradle. A position of the cradle with respect to the movement system and the location on the aircraft may be changed using an adjustment system associated with the movement system. The engine may be connected to the location after changing the position of the cradle.