Pitch Link Alignment Tool with Adjustable Retainers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional pitch link alignment tools require multiple users for operation, are not adaptable to various configurations, and are rendered unusable with other pitch links after adjusting one, leading to increased repair times and costs.
Innovation Solution
A single-user operable pitch link alignment tool with adjustable retainers, a stabilization mechanism, and a measurement system that allows for multiple parallel alignments by securely fixing the pitch link, measuring displacement, and recording baseline configurations for precise reinstallation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional pitch link alignment tools are used, then pitch link alignment can be achieved, but multiple users are required for operation
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tool is designed with a stabilization mechanism that anchors the tool to the work surface, enabling it to self-stabilize during operation. This eliminates the need for multiple users to manually hold and position the tool, allowing a single user to operate it safely and effectively
Solution Approach 2:
The tool incorporates adjustable retainers that can be repositioned along the tool body to accommodate different pitch link lengths and configurations. This dynamic adjustability allows one tool to serve multiple alignment scenarios that previously required different tools or multiple operators
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional pitch link alignment tools are used, then one pitch link can be aligned, but the tool becomes unusable with other pitch links
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment tool is designed as a universal device with adjustable retainers that can accommodate various pitch link configurations. The retainers can be repositioned to match different lengths and orientations, allowing the same tool to be used across multiple pitch links without requiring reconfiguration or specialized tools for each specific pitch link type
Solution Approach 2:
The adjustable retainer mechanism allows the tool to dynamically adapt to different pitch link configurations. By moving the retainers to appropriate positions, the tool can be quickly reconfigured for new pitch links, eliminating the time loss associated with using dedicated tools for each pitch link
3Ease of repair
If pitch link length and rod end angles are altered during maintenance, then the pitch link can be serviced, but blade pitch predictability is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Before servicing the pitch link, the tool is used to measure and record the baseline configuration including length and rod end angles. This preliminary measurement allows the maintenance personnel to know the exact original specifications, ensuring that after servicing, the pitch link can be restored to its precise original configuration rather than relying on estimation or memory
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment tool provides visual feedback through alignment indicators that show when the pitch link rod ends are properly aligned at the correct angles. This feedback mechanism guides the adjustment process, ensuring that the pitch link is restored to its precise original configuration, thereby maintaining blade pitch predictability
4Reliability
If pitch link alignment is performed without stabilization, then the tool can be set up quickly, but safety and alignment accuracy are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The stabilization mechanism can be quickly deployed or adjusted depending on the work surface conditions. The outriggers can be extended or repositioned rapidly, providing immediate stabilization without significantly increasing setup time, thereby maintaining both safety and productivity
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 4A~4C
AI summary
An alignment tool (300) for a pitch link (200) comprises first and second pitch link retainers (400), wherein the distance between the retainers is adjustable to accommodate the length of the pitch link; and a measurement system (700) for measuring the displacement of a rod end (210) from an adjustment member (220) of the pitch link, comprising first and second measurement reference points (710) fixedly associated with the first and second retainers (400), respectively. Another alignment tool for a pitch link comprises first and second retainers (400) having an adjustable distance there between; and a stabilization mechanism (600) for stabilizing the tool on a surface. A method for adjusting and aligning a pitch link (200), in part comprising the steps of securing the pitch link to the alignment tool (300); measuring and recording a baseline length displacement of the pitch link; loosening the pitch link jam nuts; and adjusting the pitch link on the alignment tool (300) to match the previously recorded displacement.