Multipurpose Jet Drive Marine Engine Tool for Inlet Debris Removal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Jet drive marine engines require specialized tools for maintenance due to the unique internal structure, particularly for accessing and clearing foreign objects from the inlet and inspecting/replacing the impeller, which is positioned inside the passage.
Innovation Solution
A multipurpose maintenance tool with a central body, elongated shank, and various features such as a foreign object removing element, fastener engaging formations, and lateral extensions designed to perform multiple maintenance tasks on jet drive marine engines, including dislodging foreign objects and rotating fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a conventional propeller drive system is used, then efficiency is improved, but safety deteriorates due to laceration dangers from exposed propellers
Solution Approach 1:
The propeller system is segmented into two parts: an exposed external propeller for efficient propulsion and a hidden internal impeller within the lower housing for safety. The internal impeller is protected by the housing structure, eliminating direct contact hazards while the external propeller maintains propulsion efficiency.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If jet drive engine is used, then safety is improved by eliminating exposed propellers, but maintenance complexity increases due to internal component access requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The maintenance tool is designed as a universal multi-functional device that combines multiple specialized tools into one unit. It includes a shank with various engagement formations for different fastener types, a lateral extension for spanning openings and applying leverage, and a foreign object removing element with engaging surfaces for dislodging debris. This single tool performs fastener removal, foreign object extraction, and component access functions.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the impeller is positioned inside the passage for safety, then laceration danger is reduced, but accessibility for inspection and repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The maintenance tool acts as an intermediary device that bridges the gap between the external environment and internal components. The lateral extension spans the opening in the lower housing to provide leverage points, while the shank with various engagement formations interfaces with fasteners and components inside the passage, enabling inspection and repair without direct manual access to hazardous areas.
4Ease of operation
If foreign objects are allowed to accumulate in the inlet passage, then ease of operation is maintained, but performance deteriorates due to obstructed water flow
Solution Approach 1:
The maintenance system enables periodic cleaning operations through the maintenance tool. The foreign object removing element with its engaging surface can be periodically inserted through the inlet to dislodge and remove accumulated debris, restoring water flow performance while allowing continuous operation between maintenance intervals.
Data Source
AI summary
A multipurpose maintenance tool for a mechanical assembly. The tool includes a central body and an elongated shank extending in a longitudinal direction from the central body to a lever end. A foreign object removing element has a foreign body engaging surface. The element extends from the central body generally opposite the shank. A fastener engaging formation is formed on the shank, the removing element, and/or the central body. The formation is sized and shaped for engaging a fastener on the assembly to selectively tighten and loosen the fastener. A lateral extension extends from the central body to span an opening in the assembly and engage opposite margins adjacent the opening. As the shank is pivoted about the extension, the removal surface pivots about the lateral extension in a direction corresponding to the angular direction of the shank to dislodge foreign objects from the opening in the assembly.