Rotatable Gas Turbine Engine Module Adapter
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional gas turbine engine support systems are inefficient and limit accessibility during assembly and maintenance, requiring multiple supports and fixed positions that hinder cost-effective and time-efficient operations.
Innovation Solution
A modular engine mounting apparatus with a rotatable carrier and adapter system that allows the engine to be supported in a horizontal position, enabling cantilevered support and maximum accessibility, featuring a dual load path interface and adaptable design for various engine models.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If multiple jack stands are used to support engine modules during assembly, then the weight of the engine is distributed over different support points, but the assembly process becomes time-consuming and requires frequent repositioning of supports
Solution Approach 1:
The overhead carrier is designed to perform multiple functions: it supports the engine module weight, provides positioning, and enables rotation to different working positions. This single multi-functional device replaces the need for multiple jack stands and their associated repositioning operations, thereby reducing assembly time while maintaining support stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The overhead carrier incorporates rotational capability that allows dynamic repositioning of the engine module from vertical to horizontal orientations and to various working positions. This dynamic feature eliminates the need for static multiple support points and manual repositioning of jack stands, significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining engine stability throughout the process.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the engine is supported in a fixed position by multiple supports, then the engine modules can be held in appropriate relative positions, but accessibility to higher or lower components and assembly areas becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The overhead carrier provides dynamic repositioning capability through rotation, allowing the engine module to be moved between vertical and horizontal orientations and to various working positions. This enables workers to access components at different heights and locations without compromising the engine's positional stability during assembly operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces rotational movement as an additional dimension of positioning, transforming the engine module from fixed vertical or horizontal orientations to a multi-position configuration. This dimensional change provides superior accessibility to all engine components while maintaining stable support throughout the repositioning process.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple jack stands are moved during assembly operations, then different support points are required, but the process becomes inefficient and requires extensive repositioning
Solution Approach 1:
The overhead carrier serves as a universal support device that can accommodate various engine module configurations and assembly positions through its rotational capability. This single versatile device replaces multiple specialized jack stands, eliminating the need for frequent repositioning and significantly improving assembly efficiency while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to different support requirements.
4Force
If conventional supports are used to hold engine sections, then the weight is distributed over multiple points, but the supports limit engine accessibility for the assembler
Solution Approach 1:
The overhead carrier maintains weight distribution capability while introducing dynamic repositioning through rotation. The engine module can be rotated to horizontal and angled positions that provide excellent assembler access to all components, whereas conventional fixed supports would block access to components located behind or above the support structure.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An engine mounting arrangement (10) is provided for supporting a gas turbine engine module. The mounting arrangement (10) comprises a module adaptor (20) mounted to an overhead or a ground based carrier (18) for rotation about a substantially horizontal axis (32). The module adaptor (20) extends from a carrier to an axially-opposed distal end having a first mounting interface (50) configured for attachment to a module (14) of the engine (E). The module adaptor (20) holds the engine (E) by the module (14) to which it is attached and with the other engine modules projecting horizontally from the supported module (14).