Modular Workpiece Support for Gas Turbine Engines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workpiece supports for gas turbine engines are unique to each engine type, requiring bespoke stands and brackets, which limits flexibility in manufacturing processes, increases setup time, and adds weight, particularly in jet engines.
Innovation Solution
A modular workpiece support system with pivotably connected arms and adjustable receiving members that can accommodate various workpiece sizes and shapes, eliminating the need for engine-specific brackets and allowing for flexible use across different engines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If bespoke brackets and stands are used for each engine type, then the engine can be supported during assembly and maintenance, but the device complexity increases and flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single standardized stand configuration that can support multiple engine types through interchangeable receiving members. Instead of creating bespoke stands for each engine type, the system uses a universal stand with removable and interchangeable receiving members that can be configured to match different engine geometries, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining support reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the support system into modular components: the stand structure, the brackets, and the receiving members. The receiving members are further segmented into interchangeable parts that can be swapped based on the specific engine type. This modular segmentation allows the system to adapt to different engines without redesigning the entire stand, reducing overall device complexity.
2Reliability
If engine-specific brackets are fastened to the engine, then the engine can be securely supported, but the total engine weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the extraction principle by removing the need for permanent brackets from the engine. Instead of fastening heavy brackets to the engine, the system extracts the support function to external stands with receiving members that engage with the engine without adding significant weight. The support security is maintained through the engineered engagement between the receiving members and engine features, while the weight penalty of permanent brackets is eliminated.
3Reliability
If bespoke stands are used for each engine type, then the engine can be properly supported, but the loss of time increases due to changing stands and brackets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring multiple receiving members for different engine types and having them ready for interchange. The standardized stand and bracket system is prepared in advance with the appropriate receiving members that can be quickly swapped. This eliminates the need to redesign or assemble new support configurations for each engine type, significantly reducing setup time while maintaining proper support for each specific engine.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the support system adaptable and changeable rather than static. The interchangeable receiving members allow the system to dynamically reconfigure for different engine types. This dynamic capability enables quick adaptation to different engines without time-consuming redesign or assembly, while the standardized base structure maintains reliability across all configurations.
4Device complexity
If a fixed support structure is used, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different workpiece geometries is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by introducing movable and adjustable elements to the support structure. The receiving members can be positioned at different locations and oriented at different angles to accommodate various workpiece geometries. This dynamic adaptability allows a single standardized structure to handle diverse workpieces without requiring complex custom designs for each case, maintaining structural simplicity while enhancing versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A workpiece support, including: first and second arms pivotably connected to first and second support members respectively, the first and second support members being spaced apart, each arm including first and second receiving members for receiving the workpiece, the first and second receiving members being provided at first and second ends of each arm respectively, wherein each arm is pivotably connected to the respective first and second support members at a point between the first and second ends of each arm, such that a workpiece may be supported by the first and second receiving members of the first arm and the first and second receiving members of the second arm.