Optical Angular Misalignment Measurement for Marine Propulsion Shafts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for measuring angular misalignment between marine propulsion shafts are inaccurate, inefficient, and cumbersome, especially in multi-engine applications, requiring manual processes that are subjective and time-consuming, leading to potential wear and tear on marine vessels and propulsion devices.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using light-emitting devices attached to marine propulsion shafts to measure angular misalignment by emitting light between paired members, with targets and scribe lines to determine offset positions, allowing for precise alignment and correction, potentially automated with a control system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual alignment processes are used, then the alignment can be performed without specialized equipment, but the measurement precision and efficiency are poor and the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment methods with an optical measurement system. Light-emitting devices project light between propulsion shafts, and detectors measure the angular misalignment optically rather than through manual mechanical processes, significantly improving both precision and speed of measurement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses light to create optical references (light paths and patterns) that represent the ideal alignment position. These optical copies serve as measurement references against which the actual shaft positions are compared, enabling precise and rapid angular misalignment detection.
2Productivity
If automated control systems are implemented, then the alignment accuracy and efficiency improve, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment system is designed to be self-measuring and self-reporting. The light-emitting devices and detectors automatically measure angular misalignment without requiring external measurement tools or manual intervention, enabling the system to self-diagnose alignment issues and provide data for automated correction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the measured angular misalignment data is fed back to the control system. This feedback enables automated adjustment of the propulsion shafts to achieve proper alignment, improving productivity while managing complexity through systematic control loops.
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
This approach simplifies and standardizes the alignment process, providing accurate and efficient measurement and correction of angular misalignment, improving vessel performance, safety, and reducing wear, while enabling precise digital steering commands in steer-by-wire systems.
Implementation Method 1
first and second emitters are coupled to the first and second members, respectively, where the first and second emitters are each configured to emit light
Data Source
AI summary
A system for measuring angular misalignment between marine propulsion devices. The system includes first and second members with mounting ends and distal ends. Attachment features are positioned at the mounting ends to attach the members to first and second propulsion shafts of the marine propulsion devices. Emitters configured to emit light are coupled to the first and second members. When the first and second member are attached to the propulsion shafts, a first emitter emits the light towards a target on the second member and a second emitter emits the light towards a target on the first member. The angular misalignment between the propulsion shafts is measurable based on a first offset between the target and where the light from the first emitter shines on the second member, and based on a second offset between the target and where the light from the second emitter shines on the first member.