Generator Coupling Member with Access Openings
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Solution Overview
Problem
In generator sets, the limited space for replacing or servicing rubber blocks of the coupling member between the flywheel and generator poses difficulties in maintenance, increasing labor and maintenance costs due to the need to move the generator.
Innovation Solution
A coupling member design with an outer and inner ring member, featuring teeth and slots, and blocks within these slots, positioned at an axial distance from the generator housing with access openings for easy maintenance, allowing for replacement without disassembling the generator from the flywheel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the coupling member is positioned close to the generator housing to save space, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of repair deteriorates because the rubber blocks cannot be accessed for maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member is segmented into modular components including an outer ring, inner ring, and multiple rubber blocks that can be independently accessed. The housing is also segmented with access openings that allow technicians to reach specific rubber blocks without disassembling the entire generator assembly, enabling selective maintenance of individual components.
Solution Approach 2:
Access openings in the housing serve as intermediaries that provide a pathway for maintenance tools and hands to reach the coupling member's rubber blocks. These openings act as mediators between the external maintenance environment and the internal coupling components, allowing service without complete disassembly while maintaining the compact positioning of the coupling member within the housing.
2Reliability
If the generator must be moved to service the coupling member, then the reliability of the coupling member can be maintained through regular maintenance, but the loss of time and productivity increase due to generator relocation
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member is divided into separable components with individual rubber blocks that can be accessed and replaced independently. The access openings in the housing allow technicians to service specific rubber blocks without moving the entire generator, enabling rapid maintenance operations that preserve system reliability while minimizing downtime.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling member design enables self-service maintenance where the rubber blocks can be accessed and replaced through openings in the existing housing structure. This eliminates the need for external assistance or generator relocation, allowing maintenance personnel to service the coupling member in place and reducing the time loss associated with maintenance operations.
3Ease of repair
If the coupling member is designed with multiple components (outer ring, inner ring, blocks in slots), then the ease of repair improves due to modular maintenance, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling member is segmented into an outer ring, inner ring, and multiple rubber blocks arranged in slots. This segmentation allows individual components to be inspected, removed, and replaced independently through access openings in the housing, significantly improving ease of repair while the modular design keeps the overall structural complexity manageable through standardized interfaces and arrangements.
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
Facilitates easy access and replacement of blocks, reducing maintenance costs and labor, while providing a cushioning effect to enhance operational efficiency by absorbing vibrations.
Implementation Method 1
The coupling member is disposed at an axial distance from an inner face of the housing. The housing comprises one or more access openings to access the coupling member from outside the housing.
Data Source
AI summary
A generator set is disclosed. The generator set includes an engine and a flywheel coupled to the engine. The generator set further includes a generator having a housing and a hub portion configured to receive power from the engine. The generator set further includes a coupling member coupled to the flywheel and the hub portion within the housing of the generator. The coupling member includes an outer ring member disposed adjacent to the flywheel. The coupling member further includes an inner ring member disposed within the outer ring member. The coupling member further includes a plurality of blocks disposed within each of plurality of slots. The coupling member is disposed at an axial distance from an inner face of the housing. The housing of the generator includes one or more access openings to access the coupling member from outside the housing.