Hale MRI System

The Hale Propeller Measurement Recording Instrument is perhaps the most sophisticated and certainly the most versatile, computerized three dimensional propeller measurement device available. The Hale Propeller M.R.I. offers a vast number of advantages to the sophisticated propeller repair or performance facility. Because all of the Propeller M.R.I. software is written in a modern computer language and operates in a Windows™ environment. The user learning curve is extremely rapid. Experienced propeller service people learn to operate the Propeller M.R.I. effectively in only a few hours and many in less than one hour. A complete propeller analysis of several thousand measurements can be accomplished in under 5 minutes.

The Hale MRI Analysis System Designed, Built and used by Hale Propeller is now available to the marine propeller industry from Michigan Wheel Corporation.

Hale Propeller M.R.I. Features

Software

Operates on Microsoft Windows Platform Easy for the operator to learn “Point and Click” Command Structure Computer operates just like the one you are now using

Because we use the Hale M.R.I. every day in our propeller shop we are continually developing new features that are added to the software. Additionally, input from our customers has also resulted in new functions that are included with our software upgrade releases. Among the assets of modern computer programming language is the ability to make programming changes readily.

Hale M.R.I. software has multiple data analysis Tools each designed toward one objective Accurate Propeller Repair. The first several data tools are designed for and presented to the propeller technician. A detailed layout of each blade in multiple radii with several hundred interrogations per radius as well as the computed mean for each radius provide the technician with a detailed image of each blade. Point to Point Position, Blade Segment Analysis and Section Plot Graphs for the entire wheel are available in both numeric and graphic formats. This detail provides the repair technician with an accurate picture of not only how much each blade is out of specification but also WHERE. As the repair process proceeds the Hale M.R.I. may be used to document and analyze the progress.

The Hale MRI will even compare one propeller to another in graphic and numerical formats. The technician can compare port to starboard, a replacement wheel to an existing wheel or any wheel to any other wheel. The Hale MRI also has the ability to compare the propeller to factory design files.

At the completion of the repair a report is printed that can be presented to the customer. The data is presented in a concise manner that is designed to be understood by the boat owner. (Sample Reports)

The “Import” / “Export” tool allows all of the data to be transferred from any Hale MRI to any other Hale MRI. A distinct advantage to the cruising boat owner. Their analysis may be transferred via e mail, direct data transfer or on disk, insuring that their wheels are repaired to the same configuration even when away from home port.

Rapid and Efficient Operation:

Because the Hale Propeller MRI Software has been designed by propulsion professionals for propulsion professionals and operates in a Windows environment, the operation of the system is easy to learn. After only a few hours of experience most operators are able to complete a full propeller analysis in less than 5 minutes. A full analysis consists of several thousand measurements taken at 35%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% and 95% radii on each blade.

Mechanical Structure:

In order to provide maximum stability and to insure that all critical measurements are derived from a constant reference the Hale Propeller MRI is built upon a 1½” thick solid steel table bed supported by 2″ welded steel legs. The radial spar assembly is fixed between two precision ground masts to eliminate unnecessary deflection. Due to the strength and rigidity of the platform assembly and its center of gravity, propellers up to 50 inches in diameter and up to 500 pounds may be safely and conveniently measured.

The rotating portion of the table assembly uses bearings of such capacity and tolerance that any propeller is easily rotated by the operator with almost no effort.

Measurement Resolution:

High Resolution Astronomy Grade Optical encoders transmit extremely precise three dimensional position data to the computer. The information supplied by these devices allows the software to determine and calculate not simply pitch but also camber, rake, track at any point on any blade and blade geometry. These encoders are identical to those used in astronomical telescopes to accurately locate and center a single star. Measurement Resolution: Calculation = 0.0000000000001 in. Data Display = 0.001 in. The Hale MRI is calibrated to Certified Standards traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology of the United States

Electronic Interface:

The entire electronic interface to the computer is accomplished through a specially designed dedicated single printed circuit board (PCB). This PCB is integrated into the computer via one of the computer’s expansion slots. Not only does the PCB provide all of the data interface to the MRI but also supplies power to the system. No additional power supplies or cables are required.