Propeller Repair Apparatus with Movable Frame and Actuator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing propeller repair technologies are either too complex and costly or unable to effectively impart non-parallel forces on propeller blades, making it difficult to efficiently repair or change the pitch of marine propellers, especially for smaller propellers.
Innovation Solution
A propeller repair apparatus with a movable frame and independently positionable actuators that can engage propeller blades from multiple directions, allowing for controlled force application and adjustable angles to facilitate precise bending of propeller blades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a hammer is used to bend propeller blades, then the bending force can be applied, but the process becomes tedious and requires great deal of trial and error due to uncontrolled force application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual hammering mechanical system with a controlled hydraulic or pneumatic actuator system. The actuator applies controlled force through a ram to the propeller blade, eliminating the trial-and-error nature of hammering while providing precise control over the bending force and direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic adjustment of force parameters through the actuator system. The operator can control the magnitude, direction, and duration of the applied force by adjusting actuator extension, positioning, and actuation parameters, thereby achieving precise blade bending without excessive trial and error.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an arbor press with a single actuator is used, then constant force can be applied to large propeller blades, but the apparatus is of little use for smaller propellers or removed propellers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a movable frame that can be repositioned along rails, allowing the actuator to reach different locations on the propeller. This dynamic positioning capability enables the same apparatus to work on propellers of various sizes and configurations, including removed propellers, without requiring multiple specialized devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed with universal applicability through its movable frame and adjustable actuator positioning system. The same device can accommodate both large installed propellers and smaller removed propellers, providing multi-functional capability that eliminates the need for size-specific equipment.
3Adaptability or versatility
If opposing actuators extending in parallel directions are used, then force can be applied to propeller blades, but the system becomes complex and expensive when attempting to rotate actuators about the propeller
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds the dimension of frame movement along rails to the actuator positioning system. Instead of rotating actuators in place, the entire frame can be moved to different positions and angles, allowing the actuator to approach the propeller blade from multiple directions. This dimensional approach achieves versatile force application without the mechanical complexity of rotation mechanisms.
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 apparatus enables efficient and precise repair and pitch adjustment of propeller blades with controlled force application, reducing the complexity and cost associated with existing methods while accommodating various propeller sizes.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator having a ram engagable with a propeller and mounted on a movable frame... an actuator that imparts a controlled force on the propeller blade
Data Source
AI summary
A propeller repair apparatus suitable for repairing and changing the pitch of a propeller includes a first rail parallel to and spaced from a second rail. A tapered shaft extends upwardly between the first and second rails for mounting a propeller thereon. A first frame extending between the first and second rails is movably mounted on the first and second rails for movement along the first and second rails. In one embodiment, a first actuator is pivotally mounted to the first frame and includes an extendible ram engagable with a propeller mounted on the tapered shaft.