Rotor Alignment Fixture Using Tapered Intermediary

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Solution Overview

Problem

The axial alignment of rotors in rotary machines suspended by cranes is difficult and time-consuming, leading to increased costs and poor workability.

Innovation Solution

A fixture comprising an axial member with a tapered portion and a sleeve with a tapered hole, allowing for precise axial alignment by fitting together and facilitating bolt insertion through matching bolt holes, along with tools for easy installation and detachment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If axial alignment is performed by operating the crane while each rotor is suspended, then the rotors can be connected, but the alignment process becomes very difficult and time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of axial alignmentVSAvoidalignment time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an alignment fixture as an intermediary tool between the two rotors. The fixture includes a first alignment member that fits into a bolt hole of the first rotor and a second alignment member that fits into a bolt hole of the second rotor. These members have tapered surfaces that, when brought together, automatically align the axial lines of the two rotors through self-centering action, eliminating the need for difficult manual alignment operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The alignment members utilize a tapered geometric parameter. The tapered surface allows the alignment members to transition from a loose fit to a tight, centered fit as they are pushed together. This parameter change enables automatic axial alignment without requiring precise manual positioning or complex adjustment procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of manufacture

If axial alignment is performed by operating the crane while each rotor is suspended, then the rotors can be connected, but the workability deteriorates and costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveworkabilityVSAvoidconnection time
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The alignment fixture serves as a temporary intermediary device that simplifies the connection process. By inserting the alignment members into the bolt holes and bringing them together, the axial lines are automatically aligned, making the subsequent bolting operation straightforward and significantly improving workability compared to direct manual alignment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The alignment members are prepared in advance and inserted into the bolt holes before the final bolting operation. This preliminary alignment action ensures that the rotors are properly positioned axially before the bolts are tightened, streamlining the overall connection process and reducing total connection time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

Enables easy and precise axial alignment of rotor flange portions, reducing alignment time and costs, and allowing for efficient connection of rotors in rotary machines.

Implementation Method 1

a tapered portion (16) which is formed at an end portion of the column-like fitting portion (13), and is gradually reduced in diameter from the first bolt hole (113) toward the second bolt hole (123). The cylindrical fitting portion (21) of the sleeve (20) is formed with a tapered hole (23) which is gradually expanded in diameter from the second bolt hole (123) toward the first bolt hole (113) around an axis of the sleeve and is capable of fitting the tapered portion (16)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectTapered fitting: Geometry

Data Source

PatentUS9194234B2Fixture for connecting rotors of rotary machine and method of connecting rotors
Publication Date: 2015.11.24 MITSUBISHI HEAVY IND LTD
  • US9194234B2 patent drawing
  • US9194234B2 patent drawing
  • US9194234B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A fixture for connecting rotors of a rotary machine includes: an axial member provided with a column-like fitting portion which is disposed inside of a first bolt hole and fits the first bolt hole; and a sleeve provided with a cylindrical fitting portion which is disposed inside of a second bolt hole and fits the second bolt hole. The axial member further includes a tapered portion which is formed on an end portion of the column-like fitting portion, and is gradually reduced in diameter from the first bolt hole toward the second bolt hole. The cylindrical fitting portion of the sleeve is formed with a tapered hole which is gradually expanded in diameter from the second bolt hole toward the first bolt hole around an axis of the sleeve.