Vacuum Tool for Gas Turbine Fairing Sheath Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for removing and installing fairing sheaths in gas turbine engines often cause damage due to mechanical deformation, which can lead to issues with clearance and structural integrity.
Innovation Solution
A tool utilizing vacuum pressure to grip and deform fairing sheaths, forming vacuum chambers to apply controlled suction and minimize mechanical stress, allowing for precise positioning and removal without damaging the sheath or adjacent components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If mechanical deformation methods are used to remove and install fairing sheaths, then the sheath can be repositioned, but damage occurs to the sheath and adjacent components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical deformation methods with a vacuum-based system. The tool uses vacuum chambers that create suction to grip and position the fairing sheath, eliminating the need for forceful mechanical deformation that causes damage to the sheath and adjacent components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention employs vacuum pressure (a pneumatic principle) to achieve controlled gripping and positioning of the fairing sheath. The vacuum chambers create a suction force that holds the sheath without mechanical contact or deformation, allowing for safe removal and installation operations.
2Manufacturing precision
If traditional mechanical tools are used to position fairing sheaths, then positioning can be achieved, but clearance issues arise due to deformation
Solution Approach 1:
By replacing mechanical deformation tools with a vacuum-based positioning system, the patent achieves precise positioning without altering the physical dimensions or shape of the fairing sheath, thereby maintaining proper clearance with adjacent components.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental parameter of force application from mechanical compression/deformation to vacuum suction. This parameter change allows positioning to occur without physical deformation of the sheath, preserving its original dimensions and clearance relationships.
3Reliability
If vacuum pressure is applied to grip fairing sheaths, then mechanical stress is minimized, but the tool complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum-based tool is divided into multiple independent vacuum chambers, each capable of gripping specific portions of the fairing sheath. This segmentation allows the complex function to be broken down into simpler, modular components that can be independently controlled and maintained.
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 vacuum-based tool effectively positions and removes fairing sheaths without causing damage, ensuring adequate clearance and preventing structural or electrical issues during installation and removal processes.
Implementation Method 1
A tool utilizing vacuum pressure to grip and deform fairing sheaths, forming vacuum chambers to apply controlled suction
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for positioning fairing sheaths are provided. In this regard, a representative method includes using vacuum pressure to assist in moving opposing portions of a fairing sheath away from each other.