Seal Installation Tool With Viewing Window for Bore Alignment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing seal installation tools lack visibility during the installation process, leading to potential misalignment and damage to the seal, resulting in leaks in gas turbine engine components.
Innovation Solution
A seal installation method and tool that includes a base plate with a window providing visibility of the seal during installation, using a pusher with different diameter portions and a rotating rod to advance the seal into the bore while maintaining alignment, and clamping the base plate to the component using bolts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a one-piece 3-D printed tool with an annular flange is used to secure the seal, then the seal alignment is maintained, but the operator cannot observe the seal during installation and the bolts must be tightened simultaneously or incrementally
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is segmented by removing a portion to create a window, allowing the operator to observe the seal during installation while maintaining the structural integrity and alignment function of the base plate
Solution Approach 2:
The window acts as an intermediary element that provides visual access to the seal installation process without interfering with the alignment and securing functions of the base plate
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a bracket with a hole entirely circumscribing the seal is used, then the seal is protected during installation, but the operator cannot observe the seal and alignment cannot be verified
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is segmented by removing a portion to create a window, allowing the operator to observe the seal during installation while maintaining the structural integrity and alignment function of the base plate
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate has different properties in different regions: most areas provide protection and structural support, while the window area provides visibility without compromising overall protection
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the base plate completely covers the seal area, then maximum protection is provided, but no visibility is achieved for observing seal installation
Solution Approach 1:
The base plate is segmented by removing a portion to create a window, allowing the operator to observe the seal during installation while maintaining the structural integrity and alignment function of the base plate
Solution Approach 2:
The base plate has different properties in different regions: most areas provide protection and structural support, while the window area provides visibility without compromising overall protection
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
Ensures proper seal alignment and installation visibility, preventing damage and leaks by allowing operators to observe the seal's longitudinal movement and torque measurement to confirm proper seating.
Implementation Method 1
rotating a rod relative to the hub to advance the pusher and seat the seal in the bore
Implementation Method 2
clamping the base plate to the boss by securing bolts to the base plate
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A method of installing a seal (18) in a bore (12) of a component (10) includes securing a base plate (28) to a component (10). The method includes arranging the seal (18) onto a pusher (56). The method also includes inserting the pusher (56) into a hole (31) in the base plate (28). The method further includes installing a hub (46) onto the base plate (28) and over the pusher (56). The method further includes rotating a rod (52) relative to the hub (46) to advance the pusher (56) and seat the seal (18) in the bore (12).