Radially Removable Elastomeric Coupling for Generator Servicing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power generation systems require complex and time-consuming processes to service moving parts, such as couplings between engines and generators, due to the need for precise re-alignment and disconnection of components, leading to high shutdown costs and lost generating capacity.
Innovation Solution
A coupling design featuring a hub, coupling flange, and removable elastomeric components between the hub and flange, allowing radial removal and replacement without moving the generator, facilitated by a split adaptor design with centering pins for alignment and reduced disassembly steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the generator is moved to provide access for servicing moving parts, then access for servicing is improved, but the servicing time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is divided into separate components: a hub connected to the generator shaft, a coupling flange connected to the prime mover, and removable elastomeric components between them. This segmentation allows the elastomeric component to be removed radially without moving the generator, providing access for servicing while reducing downtime
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric component is extracted as a separate removable element from the coupling assembly. This allows the elastomeric component to be removed radially from the coupling without requiring generator movement, enabling easy access for servicing while maintaining system stability
2Ease of operation
If the generator is disconnected and moved for servicing, then access to moving parts is improved, but the re-alignment precision and operational complexity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is segmented into a hub, coupling flange, and elastomeric component. The elastomeric component can be removed radially without moving the generator, providing access to moving parts while eliminating the complex re-alignment process required by traditional designs
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric component acts as an intermediary element that can be independently removed radially from the coupling. This provides access to moving parts for servicing without requiring generator movement or complex re-alignment procedures
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional cylindrical adaptors are used, then structural stability is improved, but servicing access and time consumption worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional single-piece cylindrical adaptor is segmented into a hub, coupling flange, and removable elastomeric component. This segmentation maintains structural stability while enabling radial removal of the elastomeric component for quick servicing without moving the generator
4Ease of operation
If the coupling is serviced by moving the generator, then access for maintenance is improved, but productivity and operational efficiency worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling is segmented with a removable elastomeric component that can be accessed radially without moving the generator. This provides maintenance access while minimizing downtime and maintaining high operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The elastomeric component is extracted as a separately removable element, allowing maintenance personnel to access and service moving parts by removing only the elastomeric component radially, without moving the generator, thus maintaining productivity
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 solution reduces servicing time by 80%, eliminates the need for extensive facility space, and lowers costs by allowing in-place maintenance without disassembling other subsystems, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
Implementation Method 1
an elastomeric component located between the hub and the coupling flange
Data Source
AI summary
A coupling is disclosed for connecting rotating components of a generator and a prime mover in a power generation system. The coupling comprises a hub, a coupling flange and an elastomeric component located between the hub and the coupling flange. The elastomeric component is removable radially from the coupling.