Inspection Device for Rotor Stator Gap Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
The maintenance of rotary electric machines, such as electric power generators, requires labor-intensive inspection processes due to the narrow gap between the rotor and stator, necessitating the extraction of the rotor for inspection, which is time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
An inspection device with a moving body that can be inserted into the gap between the rotor and stator, equipped with arms that can extend and retract to facilitate inspection while remaining inserted, allowing for efficient movement and detection of both structures without the need for rotor extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the rotor is extracted from the stator for inspection, then the inspection can be performed, but the maintenance process becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection device extracts only the necessary inspection components (detector, arms) from the main rotor-stator assembly, allowing inspection to be performed on the installed rotor without extracting the entire rotor from the stator. This selective extraction enables maintenance while the machine remains assembled.
Solution Approach 2:
An inspection device acts as an intermediary tool that fits into the narrow gap between rotor and stator, enabling inspection functions without requiring rotor extraction. The device serves as a mediator that accesses the inspection area through the existing gap rather than through complete disassembly.
2Reliability
If the rotor is extracted from the stator for inspection, then complete inspection access is achieved, but labor requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection device is self-contained with integrated detectors, arms, and positioning mechanisms that automatically perform inspection functions without requiring external assistance or rotor extraction. The device inspects itself and the rotor-stator assembly simultaneously through autonomous operation within the gap.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection device performs multiple functions (detecting rotor conditions, inspecting stator conditions, positioning itself) within a single integrated system, eliminating the need for separate inspection procedures and reducing overall labor requirements while maintaining inspection completeness.
3Loss of time
If an inspection device is moved in the narrow annular gap between rotor and stator, then rotor extraction is avoided, but the device must navigate complex spatial constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection device is segmented into modular components (detector unit, arms, positioning mechanisms) that can independently function and be arranged to fit within the narrow gap. This segmentation allows the device to navigate complex spatial constraints while maintaining inspection effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The inspection device incorporates dynamic, movable components (extendable arms, adjustable detector positions) that can adapt their configuration to fit within the narrow annular gap. These dynamic elements allow the device to navigate spatial constraints by changing its shape and position rather than requiring fixed, complex structures.
Data Source
AI summary
According to an embodiment, an inspection device comprises a moving body that includes; a moving main body which moves in contact with a first structure; arms attached to the moving main body; an arm driver to drive the arms; and a detector attached to the moving main body or the arms to inspect the second structure. The arms each can selectively take a pressed position and a detached position. When the moving body is moved, at least one of the arms are in the pressed position and pressed to the second structure, and the moving body is supported by the first and second structures.