Hydro-Pneumatic Tool System for Interference Fit Component Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional mechanical tools for installing and removing interference fit components in gas turbine engines require significant force, lead to ergonomic issues, and result in high repair times due to the need for precise handling and high tolerance fitting.
Innovation Solution
A tool system comprising a guide bushing, hydro-pneumatic pistol grip drive, drive screw, and installation mandrel that facilitates the installation and removal of threaded inserts with reduced force and ergonomic concerns, utilizing a guide bushing and flange design to securely engage and disengage interference fit components within a bore.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional mechanical installation tools are used to install interference fit components, then the components can be installed with the required interference fit, but the installation process requires significant force and results in ergonomic issues and high repair time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical installation tools with a hydro-pneumatic drive system. The hydro-pneumatic pistol grip drive uses fluid pressure to generate the necessary installation force, eliminating the need for manual mechanical leverage and reducing installation time from 600 minutes to 30 minutes for 120 threaded inserts while maintaining the required interference fit quality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the force application method from manual mechanical force to controlled hydro-pneumatic force. The system provides precise control over installation force parameters through fluid pressure regulation, enabling consistent interference fit quality while significantly reducing installation time and improving ergonomics
2Force
If conventional mechanical installation tools are used, then installation force can be applied, but ergonomic issues arise due to the complexity and manual handling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical force application with a hydro-pneumatic drive system. The pistol grip design allows operators to control installation force through fluid pressure rather than manual leverage, significantly improving ergonomics while maintaining the necessary installation force for interference fit components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hydro-pneumatic medium as an intermediary between the operator and the installation process. The fluid-powered system transmits force smoothly and controllably, eliminating the ergonomic problems associated with manual mechanical tools while providing the required installation force
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional tools are used for installation, then components can be installed, but repair time increases due to precise handling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical installation with a hydro-pneumatic driven system that provides precise and consistent force application. This automation of the installation process maintains the required fitting precision while dramatically increasing productivity by reducing repair time from 600 minutes to 30 minutes for 120 threaded inserts
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
The tool system significantly reduces installation time from 600 minutes to 30 minutes for 120 threaded inserts in a diffuser case, minimizing wear and addressing ergonomic issues while ensuring reliable and repeatable installation and removal of interference fit components.
Implementation Method 1
A tool system to install an interference fit component within a bore of a component includes a guide bushing that at least partially fits within a bore of a component; a drive screw of a length to extend through the guide bushing and the bore; and a threaded insert that is receivable at least partially within the bore
Data Source
AI summary
A tool system to install an interference fit component within a bore of a component, includes a guide bushing that at least partially fits within a bore of a component. A drive screw is of a length to extend through the guide bushing and the bore. A threaded insert is receivable at least partially within the bore, the threaded insert receivable at least partially within the interference fit component.