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Operators of large industrial engines are able to measure the deflection of single segments of a crankshaft (known as webs) to determine that web's stress on the shaft. Unfortunately operators were unable to assess the cumulative stress of multiple webs on a single shaft.
Based on a unifying equation, this program allows users to compile multiple web deflection measurements into a complete understanding of a crank shaft's shape and motion.
Users can also recall previous measurements of the same webs and view an animated history of the shaft's deterioration.
Screen 1 here is the main window for this program, showing a diagram that the user can manipulate to indicate throw and bearing positions, and miscellaneous input parameters.
In screen 2, for each throw on the crankshaft, the user enters readings of web deflection, and the program calculates the path taken by the web as it rotates.
In screen 3, we see a graph of the bearing displacements, shown as deviations from a straight line.
By recording the bearing displacements over time, an animation can be displayed (screen 4), alerting the user to possibly dangerous trends.
Using the calculated displacements, a 3-D graph can be constructed (screen 5) to clearly indicate physical deformation of the shaft. The user can view the deformed shaft from any angle.
Usage of this program has helped many operators prevent crankshaft breakage (a VERY costly occurrence) by focusing their maintenance dollars on the units showing the worst distortion.
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