Turbine Trailer Mechanical Docking and Alignment System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current alignment techniques for gas turbines and generators are time-consuming, often taking hours to days, leading to downtime and revenue loss, especially in emergency situations where rapid alignment is needed.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical docking and alignment system comprising a docking guide with alignment guides, a laser system, and a camera to facilitate quick and repeatable alignment of turbine trailers with generator trailers, allowing for faster installation and reduced downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional alignment techniques are used for gas turbines and generators, then alignment accuracy can be achieved, but the alignment process takes hours to days, resulting in significant downtime and revenue loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements pre-assembled alignment fixtures and mechanical docking systems that are prepared in advance. The alignment guides and positioning mechanisms are pre-configured on the turbine and generator platforms, allowing for rapid engagement and alignment without time-consuming field adjustments. This preliminary preparation enables the system to achieve precise alignment in minutes rather than hours or days.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional manual mechanical alignment methods with automated optical measurement systems, laser alignment tools, and computer-controlled positioning mechanisms. These systems automatically measure and adjust the relative positions of turbine and generator components, eliminating the need for lengthy manual measurement and adjustment processes while maintaining high alignment precision.
2Loss of time
If rapid alignment is implemented to reduce downtime, then alignment time decreases, but alignment reliability and repeatability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates real-time feedback systems with optical sensors, laser measurement devices, and computer control that continuously monitor alignment parameters during the docking process. The system automatically adjusts positioning based on measured deviations from target alignment specifications, ensuring that rapid alignment achieves the same reliability and repeatability as traditional methods. The feedback loop validates alignment accuracy before completing the coupling operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the alignment system by using pre-calibrated positioning data and stored alignment specifications from previous successful couplings. This allows the system to rapidly reproduce accurate alignment by referencing predetermined parameter sets rather than performing full manual measurements, maintaining reliability while dramatically reducing alignment time.
3Productivity
If complex alignment systems are deployed to achieve fast and accurate alignment, then alignment speed and precision improve, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the alignment system into separate modular components: mechanical docking fixtures, optical measurement subsystems, and control systems. Each module performs a specific function and can be independently calibrated and maintained. This segmentation allows the complex system to be managed more easily while achieving high alignment speed and precision through coordinated operation of the various subsystems.
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 rapid and reliable alignment of turbine and generator trailers, reducing downtime and increasing fleet flexibility, allowing for quicker commissioning and minimizing revenue loss during alignment processes.
Implementation Method 1
a laser configured to emit a beam of light to a target
Implementation Method 2
a camera configured to capture a visual of the target
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a docking guide comprising a first alignment guide configured to couple with a first mobile unit that supports a turbine engine and a second alignment guide configured to couple with a second mobile unit that supports a generator. The first and second alignment guides are configured to guide a coupling between the first and second mobile units to help align the turbine engine with the generator.