Generator Phase Ring Handling Tool for Crane-Free Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation and servicing of phase rings in electric generators using cranes are cumbersome, time-consuming, and pose safety risks due to uncontrolled swinging and spinning, leading to potential damage and prolonged generator outages.
Innovation Solution
A phase ring handling tool with a base unit, vertical support structure, and phase ring support head, allowing for stable grip and maneuverability without cranes, enabling installation, removal, and servicing of phase rings in electric generators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a crane is used to install and remove phase rings, then the phase rings can be lifted and positioned, but the process becomes slow and cumbersome taking up to 20 days
Solution Approach 1:
A specialized handling tool acts as an intermediary device between the phase ring and the installation position. This tool includes a support structure with multiple arms that can grip and maneuver the phase ring directly, eliminating the need for crane operations and reducing installation time from 20 days to a much shorter duration.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the phase ring handling operation from the crane system and creates a dedicated, self-contained handling tool. This separate device is specifically designed for phase ring manipulation, allowing workers to perform installation and removal operations without relying on external crane availability.
2Ease of operation
If a crane is used to handle phase rings, then the phase rings can be moved, but worker safety is compromised due to uncontrolled swinging and spinning
Solution Approach 1:
The handling tool serves as a controlled intermediary that provides stable support and precise positioning of the phase ring. Multiple support arms with gripping mechanisms ensure the phase ring remains stable and controlled during all operations, eliminating the uncontrolled swinging and spinning that occurs with crane operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The handling tool incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities, allowing the support arms to adapt their position and grip strength based on the phase ring's weight and shape. This dynamic control system maintains stable support throughout the operation, preventing unwanted movement while allowing deliberate positioning.
3Ease of operation
If a crane is used for phase ring installation, then the phase rings can be positioned, but the risk of damage to phase rings and generator components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handling tool provides a controlled intermediary mechanism that enables precise positioning of the phase ring without the rough handling associated with crane operations. The multiple support arms distribute contact points evenly, preventing concentrated stresses that could damage the phase ring or generator components during installation and removal.
4Ease of operation
If a crane is used to service phase rings, then access can be obtained, but generator outage time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the phase ring servicing operation from the crane-dependent process and creates a self-contained handling system. This dedicated tool can be quickly deployed and operated without waiting for crane availability, dramatically reducing generator outage time while maintaining full access to phase rings for inspection, repair, or replacement.
Data Source
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AI summary
An electric generator phase ring handling tool (24), a phase ring loading tool (26), base loader (28), and a system and a method for servicing or installing one or more phase rings (20) in an electric generator (12) using the handling tool, the loading tool and the base loader (28). Phase rings (20) can be picked up and transported to a generator (12), inserted into the generator (12), adjusted while inside the generator (12), and removed. Installation, removal and servicing of the rings in a generator (12) avoids use of a crane and allows shorten generator (12) outage duration. Without using a crane for installation, removal and servicing, the safety of workers performing these operations is enhanced. Also, increased precision in transporting, placing, installing, removing, and adjusting the rings is obtained, minimizing the risk of damage to the rings and the generator (12).