On-Site Field Pole Pressing for Hydroelectric Generator Repair

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for repairing field poles in hydroelectric generators are time-consuming as they require transporting the poles offsite for pressing, resulting in lengthy processing times of 3-5 months.

Innovation Solution

An on-site pressing assembly is used, comprising pressing carts, a track, and a pressing unit with hydraulic cylinders, allowing for the on-site straightening of field poles, either as a single unit or separated pole bodies and coils, and reassembly, significantly reducing processing time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If field poles are transported offsite for pressing, then pressing can be performed with dedicated equipment, but repair time increases to 3-5 months

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepressing qualityVSAvoidrepair time
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

A pressing cart serves as an intermediary mobile platform that brings the pressing capability to the generator site. The cart includes a pressing plate, hydraulic cylinder, and control system that together form a portable pressing station, eliminating the need to transport poles offsite while maintaining pressing quality

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The pressing system is made dynamic and mobile through the use of a wheeled pressing cart that can be positioned at different locations. The hydraulic system provides adjustable pressing force and duration, allowing the system to adapt to different pressing requirements while remaining on-site

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of time

If field poles are pressed on-site, then repair time is reduced, but equipment complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverepair timeVSAvoidpressing equipment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pressing system is segmented into modular components: a pressing cart with pressing plate, a hydraulic cylinder unit, a control system, and support structures. This segmentation allows for easier transport, assembly, and maintenance while providing the full pressing functionality needed for on-site repair

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The pressing cart is designed as a universal platform that can handle different pole sizes and pressing requirements. The hydraulic system can be adjusted to provide various pressing forces, and the cart structure can accommodate different pressing configurations, making it a multi-functional tool for various repair scenarios

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 on-site method enables efficient pressing of multiple field poles per shift, reducing the overall time required for repairs and allowing for faster reinstallation of straightened poles, achieving industry-standard straightness tolerances.

Implementation Method 1

The pressing unit includes hydraulic cylinders that exert an upwards force on the bottom of the cart so that the field pole and the press bars are pressed between the cart and a top plate of the pressing unit

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic press: Hydraulic Press

Data Source

PatentUS11648744B2Assembly and method for on-site pressing of hydroelectric generator field poles
Publication Date: 2023.05.16 ANDRITZ HYDRO CORP
  • US11648744B2 patent drawing
  • US11648744B2 patent drawing
  • US11648744B2 patent drawing

AI summary

On-site pressing of field poles for a hydroelectric generator is provided. A field pole may be placed on a press cart and press bars may be placed on top of the field pole. The press cart is moved along a track to transport the field pole to a pressing unit. Hydraulic cylinders in the pressing unit press the field pole and the press bars between the cart and a top plate of the pressing unit to straighten the field pole.