On-Engine Data Storage for Gas Turbine Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for recording gas turbine engine data, such as engine history and maintenance information, are prone to human error and data misplacement due to their transient nature and manual recording processes.
Innovation Solution
An on-engine data storage device with a housing, interface, and memory unit that allows for the secure and automated tracking and storage of engine data, including a method to upload and retrieve information using a peripheral device, reducing human error and ensuring data accessibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual recording methods are used for engine data, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability and measurement precision deteriorate due to human error and data misplacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of engine data stored in a memory device, replacing manual paper records. This digital copy can be reliably stored, retrieved, and transmitted without the human error associated with manual recording, while the physical notebook is replaced by an electronic system that maintains data integrity through automated storage and retrieval mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual recording system with an electronic data storage system. Instead of physically writing and storing data in notebooks, the system uses electronic memory devices to store engine data, eliminating the mechanical processes of writing, filing, and physically tracking paper records that lead to human error and misplacement.
2Loss of information
If manual recording is used for engine history data, then ease of operation is improved, but loss of information increases due to data misplacement and human error
Solution Approach 1:
The memory device automatically stores engine data without requiring manual intervention for each data entry. The system self-manages data storage, retrieval, and organization, eliminating the need for operators to manually file, search, and track paper records. This automated self-service approach prevents data loss while maintaining ease of operation through automated data management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates and maintains digital copies of engine data that can be reliably stored and retrieved without physical handling. The digital copy system ensures data persistence and eliminates the risk of misplacement that occurs with physical notebooks, while the interface device maintains ease of operation by allowing simple data access and entry through electronic interfaces.
3Reliability
If data is stored with the engine throughout its service life, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for secure mounting and data protection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the data storage system into separate functional components: a mounting mechanism that attaches the memory device to the engine, a memory device for data storage, and an interface device for data communication. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the mounting mechanism ensures secure attachment without overcomplicating the overall system, while the memory device provides reliable data storage with appropriate protection mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
An on-engine data storage device for a gas turbine engine includes a housing, an interface device, and a memory device. The interface device can communicate with a peripheral device. The memory device is mounted within the housing and is operable to store engine data related to the gas turbine engine.