Laser Propeller Pitch Rake Squareness Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring propeller parameters such as pitch, rake, and squareness are inefficient and lack precision, particularly for damaged propellers, where accurate data is needed for repair processes.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a laser displacement sensor and servo motors to measure propeller parameters by moving the laser head along two axes, with computer-controlled software to calculate and display pitch, rake, and squareness, enabling precise data collection and repair monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional measurement methods are used for propeller parameters, then the measurement process is simpler, but the measurement precision and accuracy are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement systems with a laser-based optical measurement system. The laser displacement sensor measures propeller blade parameters (pitch, rake, squareness) by detecting light reflection and conversion to electrical signals, eliminating the need for complex mechanical contact measurement devices and achieving higher precision without mechanical wear and error accumulation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a laser beam as an intermediary between the measurement system and the propeller blade. The laser beam serves as a non-contact probe that reflects off the blade surface, allowing the displacement sensor to measure blade geometry parameters without physical contact, thereby improving measurement accuracy while reducing device complexity
2Productivity
If manual measurement methods are used, then the device complexity is lower, but the productivity and efficiency of propeller inspection are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system performs self-positioning and automated data collection through computer control. The system automatically moves the laser sensor along predetermined paths, captures blade geometry data, and processes measurements without requiring manual intervention for each measurement point, thereby significantly improving productivity while the computer automation manages the increased device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic measurement capabilities where the laser displacement sensor can rapidly position itself at different locations along the propeller blade and adjust measurement parameters in real-time. This dynamic measurement approach allows comprehensive inspection of multiple blade parameters efficiently, enhancing productivity despite the sophisticated nature of the measurement system
3Reliability
If comprehensive propeller parameter measurement is performed, then the reliability of repair processes is improved, but the measurement time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement system performs continuous data acquisition as the laser sensor moves along the propeller blade without interruptions. The system continuously tracks blade geometry parameters (pitch, rake, squareness) throughout the measurement sweep, capturing all necessary data in a single continuous operation rather than requiring separate measurements for each parameter, thereby improving reliability while minimizing measurement time
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 system provides accurate and efficient measurement of propeller parameters, facilitating effective repair by quantifying damage and ensuring propellers are restored to their original dimensions, improving repair efficiency and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
The present invention provides a method and apparatus to measure the pitch, rake and squareness of a boat propeller using a laser
Implementation Method 2
The laser displacement sensor measures the distance from the laser head to the propeller
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a method of determining certain propeller parameters for a boat propeller that has a hub, a central axis and a plurality of propeller blades attached to the hub. The method includes providing a laser displacement sensor in proximity to the propeller. The laser displacement sensor has a laser head that generates a laser beam. The laser displacement sensor is used to measure the distance from the laser head to the propeller. The laser head is moved and the laser again measures the distance from the laser head to the propeller after the laser head is moved in relation to the propeller. The movement can be along either or both of the two axes including a first axis that is a linear axis and a second axis that is curved. The method includes computing a selected parameter or parameters by using the measurements that are obtained, the parameters being selected from a group that includes pitch, rake and squareness.