Rotating Machine Test Fixture With Wedge Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a secure and removable mounting system for rotating machines like alternators and starter motors during testing, allowing for proper alignment and tensioning of belts, which is not effectively addressed by existing rigid mounting methods.
Innovation Solution
A rotating-machine test fixture comprising a base, a flexible member, and a wedge member that aligns the axis of rotation of the machine with the base's longitudinal axis, along with a flexible-member tensioner to securely hold and tension the machine, enabling adjustable positioning and belt tensioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid mounting methods are used to hold rotating machines during testing, then the machine is securely held in place, but the mounting system lacks adjustability and removability
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from rigid fixed mounting to dynamic adjustable mounting using movable support members that can be positioned along guide rails, allowing the machine to be securely held while maintaining adjustability and removability
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into separate functional components including support members, guide rails, and clamping mechanisms, allowing each component to perform its specific function while enabling easy adjustment and removal of the rotating machine
2Reliability
If rigid mounting methods are used to hold rotating machines during testing, then the machine is securely held in place, but proper alignment and belt tensioning cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
Guide rails act as intermediary elements between the support members and the base, enabling precise alignment of the rotating machine while maintaining secure holding through the clamping action of the support members
3Adaptability or versatility
If removable mounting is used to allow easy removal of rotating machines, then adaptability is improved, but secure holding and stability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The clamping force is concentrated at specific local points where the support members contact the rotating machine, providing secure holding at these critical locations while maintaining overall removability of the system
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 solution provides a secure, adjustable, and effective way to hold and test rotating machines, ensuring proper alignment and tensioning of belts, facilitating reliable testing and diagnosis.
Implementation Method 1
The wedge member may be selectably positioned between the received rotating machine and the base to align the axis of rotation of the rotating machine to be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base
Implementation Method 2
The flexible member may include a first end and a second end in which the first end may be attached to the base at a first location and the second end may be slidably attached to the base at a second location to hold the received rotating machine against the base
Data Source
AI summary
A rotating-machine test fixture includes a base, a flexible member and a wedge member. The base includes a longitudinal axis and receives a rotating machine so that an axis of rotation of the rotating machine is aligned in a direction that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base. The flexible member includes a first end attached to the base at a first location and a second end slidably attached to the base at a second location to hold the received rotating machine against the base. The wedge member is coupled to the base and moves in a direction that is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base. The wedge member may be selectably positioned between the received rotating machine and the base to align the axis of rotation of the rotating machine to be substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the base.