Wireless Telemetry Module Segmentation for Tight Engine-Space Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for collecting data from rotating components in gas turbine engines face challenges in efficiently mounting and testing telemetry modules due to space constraints and limited accessibility, which complicates the assembly and verification of signal connectivity.
Innovation Solution
A telemetry module system comprising a telemetry module and a connector ring, with annular housings and connectivity boards, allows for independent assembly and testing in a clean room environment, facilitating secure electrical and physical connections through pin receivers and connectors, enabling efficient installation and verification of signal communication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If telemetry modules are mounted directly in engine spaces, then space utilization is improved, but assembly and testing accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two separate components: a telemetry module and a connector ring. The telemetry module can be assembled and tested independently in a clean room environment, then separately mounted in the engine. The connector ring remains in the engine to receive the module, eliminating the need to access tight engine spaces during assembly and testing operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The telemetry module is pre-assembled and pre-tested in a clean room environment before being installed in the engine. This preliminary action allows complete assembly and verification of signal connectivity to occur in an accessible environment, avoiding the need to perform these operations within the constrained engine space.
2Device complexity
If connectivity boards are integrated within single housing, then device complexity is reduced, but signal connectivity verification becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connectivity boards are separated into two distinct components: a first connectivity board in the telemetry module and a second connectivity board in the connector ring. This segmentation allows each board to be independently tested for signal connectivity before final assembly, making verification straightforward while maintaining relatively simple individual structures.
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 system enables reliable and efficient assembly and testing of telemetry modules in tight engine spaces, reducing the risk of issues during installation and ensuring robust signal connectivity, thereby enhancing data collection from rotating components.
Implementation Method 1
Each transmitter of the plurality of transmitters is configured to produce radio-frequency signals based on a sensor input signal
Data Source
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AI summary
A telemetry module system (42) for mounting on a rotatable shaft (48) is provided that includes a telemetry module (44) and a connector ring (46). The telemetry module (44), TM, includes an annular TM housing (50), a plurality of transmitters (64), and a first connectivity board (66). The TM housing (50) extends axially between first and second TM axial ends (58, 60). Each transmitter (64) is configured to produce RF signals based on sensor input signals. The first connectivity board (66) has a ring configuration and is in signal communication with the transmitters (64). The connector ring (46), CR, has an annular CR housing (82) and a second connectivity board (78). The CR housing (82) extends axially between first and second CR axial ends (88, 90). The second connectivity board (78) has a ring configuration and is attached to the CR housing (82). The second connectivity board (78) is configured to receive sensor input signals. The telemetry module (44) and the connector ring (46) are configured to be disposed in a coupled configuration.