Aircraft Engine Mounting Frame Assembly for Space-Constrained Overhaul
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for overhauling and shipping large turbofan gas turbine engines require significant shop floor space and often necessitate the removal of the fan module and inlet, which is inefficient due to cargo restrictions and space constraints.
Innovation Solution
A frame assembly with movable components and engine winches is used to support and displace the engine, allowing for partial disassembly and transfer of the engine's weight to a cart or trolley, reducing the need for extensive shop space and facilitating shipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the fan module and inlet remain attached to the engine components during overhaul, then shop floor space is wasted, but engine assembly integrity is maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The engine assembly is divided into separable modules: the core module (engine components) and the fan module with inlet. The pylon and engine mount allow these modules to be disconnected and reconnected, enabling the fan module to remain attached during overhaul without occupying excessive shop floor space when removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The engine mounting system transitions from a fixed rigid connection to a dynamic configurable connection. The pylon and engine mount enable the engine to be in different states: fully assembled during storage/shipment, or separated during overhaul, providing flexibility in space utilization.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the inlet and fan module are removed due to cargo restrictions, then shipment constraints are satisfied, but additional disassembly time and complexity are required
Solution Approach 1:
The engine is segmented into the core module and the fan module with inlet, which can be kept together as one unit. This segmentation allows the entire fan module to remain attached during shipment, satisfying cargo restrictions without requiring separate removal of individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
The pylon and engine mount system serves multiple functions: it supports the engine during operation, enables separation during overhaul, and facilitates shipment by allowing the fan module to remain attached. This multi-functionality reduces the need for complex disassembly procedures.
3Area of stationary object
If the fan module is removed during overhaul, then shop floor space is reduced, but additional handling and reassembly operations are required
Solution Approach 1:
The engine is divided into the core module and fan module, which can be separated when needed. During overhaul, only the core module needs to be worked on, and the fan module can remain attached or be positioned separately without requiring complete disassembly, thus maintaining productivity while reducing space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The pylon and engine mount are pre-configured to allow easy separation and reconnection of the fan module. This preliminary preparation enables quick separation of the fan module when space is needed, and rapid reconnection when overhaul is complete, minimizing the impact on productivity.
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 method reduces shop floor space requirements during engine overhaul and enables efficient shipment of engine components by allowing partial disassembly and transfer of the engine's weight to a cart or trolley, optimizing space usage and logistics.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of engine winches mounted in supported connection with the movable member. Each engine winch has an associated engine cable operably connected thereto
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and method for removing an aircraft engine. A method includes mounting a frame assembly in supported connection with a support member of an associated aircraft. The frame assembly includes a frame member, a movable assembly mounted in movable relationship to the frame member, and a plurality of engine winches mounted in supported connection with the movable member. Each engine winch has an associated engine cable operably connected thereto. The movable assembly is movable between forward and rearward positions. The method further includes supporting the weight of at least a portion of an aircraft engine with the engine cables and moving the movable member relative to the frame member to displace the portion of the aircraft engine.