Collapsible Engine Test Stand with Foldable Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional engine test stands are either unstable and bulky or compact and less stable, occupying significant space, and often have open cooling systems that cause spray and puddling, lacking self-contained power and instrumentation.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible engine test stand with adjustable, foldable supports and self-contained power, coolant, and diagnostics, allowing for compact storage and increased stability, featuring onboard power, fuel, and instrumentation with foldable accessory supports.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional test stands use a broad-based frame for stability, then engine stability is improved, but the device occupies considerable footprint and is bulky
Solution Approach 1:
The test stand is divided into a collapsible frame structure with segmented legs that can be folded against each other. The engine support arm is also segmented with telescoping sections that can be retracted, allowing the entire device to collapse into a compact configuration for storage while maintaining full functionality during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The test stand transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, collapsible structure. The legs and support arms can be folded and retracted, allowing the device to change its footprint from a stable, extended operational state to a compact, stored state, effectively resolving the contradiction between stability and space occupation.
2Area of stationary object
If compact test stands are designed to reduce footprint, then storage space is improved, but engine stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The collapsible legs nest against each other in a nested configuration, and the telescoping support arms retract into the frame structure. This nesting arrangement allows the test stand to collapse into a very compact form factor for storage while maintaining full structural integrity and stability when deployed for engine testing.
3Device complexity
If open cooling systems are used with garden hose, then simplicity is improved, but coolant spray and puddling occur
Solution Approach 1:
The test stand incorporates a self-contained cooling system with an integrated water tank, pump, and radiator. The system automatically circulates coolant through the engine and dissipates heat through the radiator, eliminating the need for external garden hoses and open drainage. This closed-loop system prevents coolant spray and puddling while maintaining simplicity of operation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If self-contained power and instrumentation are added, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The test stand integrates multiple functions into a single unified platform: the collapsible frame provides both structural support and compact storage capability, the integrated tank and pump system provides both cooling and cleaning functions, and the instrument panel provides both monitoring and diagnostic capabilities. This multi-functionality approach increases versatility while managing complexity through integrated design.
Data Source
AI summary
A moveable, collapsible engine test stand having adjustable engine supports and additional accessory supports that are all collapsible adjacent the base of the stand for convenient, compact storage. The stand may include accessories such as a radiator, fuel tank, instrument panel, battery, cooling lines, fuel lines, wiring harnesses, engine dynamometer and the like to permit prolonged operation and monitoring of an engine.