Turbine engine repair tool and method of use thereof

Abstract

A repair tool for a turbine engine and methods of using the same are provided. One method includes inserting a tool into an access opening of a turbine engine, contacting a blade of the turbine engine, and removing material from the blade. The tool can include a wiper mount and a wiper including a wiper surface configured to contact the blade and remove material from the blade. The tool can also include a body, an actuator, and a fluid flow path for deploying the wiper and locally providing fluid to the blade of the turbine engine.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This topic generally relates to the tools used for servicing and / or performing maintenance operations on components within a turbine engine, and the methods for doing so. Background Technology

[0002] Repairing and maintaining the compressor blades of a turbine engine (especially the leading edges of blades in the high-pressure compressor stage) reduces aerodynamic losses in the performance of the high-pressure compressor. Maintaining the compressor blades of a turbine engine by removing debris improves compressor efficiency and facilitates inspection of the compressor blade surfaces.

[0003] Repairing compressor blades typically involves grinding the blades (especially the leading edge). Grinding is usually done during parts repair. Maintaining the compressor and / or compressor blades typically involves cleaning to remove debris from the compressor blades. Attached Figure Description

[0004] The complete and feasible disclosure of this disclosure, including its best mode, is set forth in the specification with reference to the accompanying drawings, for those skilled in the art, wherein:

[0005] Figure 1A This is a perspective view of a turbine maintenance tool in a deployment configuration according to some embodiments;

[0006] Figure 1B This is a perspective view of a portion of a turbine maintenance tool in an undeployed configuration, according to some embodiments;

[0007] Figure 1C This is a cross-sectional view of a turbine maintenance tool in a deployment configuration according to some embodiments;

[0008] Figure 2 A flowchart illustrating a method for repairing components of a turbine engine according to some embodiments is shown;

[0009] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a maintenance tool inserted into and deployed inside a turbine engine, according to some embodiments;

[0010] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a part of a maintenance tool for contacting turbine engine blades according to some embodiments;

[0011] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of a portion of a maintenance tool for contacting turbine engine blades according to some embodiments; and

[0012] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a portion of a maintenance tool for contacting turbine engine blades according to some embodiments; and

[0013] Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a reverse-drive wiper mounting component according to some embodiments. Detailed Implementation

[0014] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present disclosure, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation and not as a limitation thereof. Indeed, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present disclosure without departing from its scope or spirit. For example, features shown or described as part of one embodiment may be used with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to cover such modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0015] As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” are used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to indicate the location or importance of the individual components.

[0016] Unless otherwise stated herein, the terms “connection,” “fixed,” “attached to,” etc., refer to both direct connection, fixation, or attachment, and indirect connection, fixation, or attachment via one or more intermediate components or features.

[0017] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “a,” and “the” include plural references.

[0018] As used herein throughout the specification and claims, approximate language can be applied to modify any quantitative expression that allows for variation without altering its underlying function. Therefore, values ​​modified by terms such as “about,” “approximate,” “almost,” and “substantially” are not limited to specified exact values. In some cases, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value. For example, approximate language may refer to a margin of 1%, 2%, 4%, 10%, 15%, or 20%. These approximate margins can be applied to a single value, to either or both endpoints of a range of values, and / or to the margin of a range between endpoints. Herein and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations are combined and interchanged, and such ranges are identified and include all subranges contained herein unless the context or language otherwise indicates otherwise. For example, all ranges disclosed herein include endpoints, and endpoints can be combined independently of each other.

[0019] Generally, this subject matter relates to maintenance tools and their use. The tool can be used to remove material from blades (more specifically, compressor blades). This material can be the blade's own material, such as metal from the leading edge of the blade, or material on the blade's surface, such as dust, sand, and debris. In some embodiments, the tool includes a fixed or substantially rigid wiper for removing material from the blade. In some embodiments, the tool includes a flexible or substantially flexible wiper such that the wiper bends upon contact with the blade to remove material from it and can remove material from the side of the blade. In some embodiments, the tool can be used to assist in inspecting the blades without partially or completely disassembling the engine.

[0020] In some embodiments, the tools and methods described herein improve the efficiency of compressor blades by repairing the geometry of the blade's leading edge. The tool repairs the geometry of the leading edge by removing material from it through physical contact between the tool and the blade. This is achieved through movement between the tool and the blade.

[0021] In some embodiments, the tools and methods described herein provide reduced maintenance time for repairing the geometry of the leading edge of compressor blades. The tool can be inserted through a duct mirror opening or some other access opening in the turbine engine to allow material removal from the blade, thereby reducing maintenance time for repairing the leading edge geometry. This can be achieved by performing the repair while the blade remains within the engine housing in a substantially assembled state. This also allows for more efficient repair of the compressor blade's leading edge geometry.

[0022] In some embodiments, the tools and methods described herein provide reshaping of the leading edges of multiple blades (or, in some cases, all blades within a first stage of a turbine engine) within a compressor. The tool can be inserted into a duct mirror opening or some other access opening in the first stage of a turbine engine, thereby allowing reshaping of multiple or all blades within that stage. This can be achieved through relative movement between the blades and the tool. This can also allow for increased efficiency in repairing the leading edges of multiple blades, or, in some cases, increased efficiency in repairing the leading edges of all blades within a first stage of a turbine engine.

[0023] In some embodiments, the tools and methods described herein provide reshaping of the entire leading edge of one or more compressor blades. This can be achieved through relative movement between the tool and the turbine stage blade. This allows the tool to traverse substantially the entire length of the blade.

[0024] In some embodiments, the tools and methods described herein improve the efficiency of compressor blades by removing dust and debris from the surface of the blades. The tool removes material, such as dust and debris, from the surface of the blades through contact between the tool and the blade. This is achieved through relative movement between the tool and the blade. Removing dust and debris from the surface of the blades improves the efficiency and performance of the compressor.

[0025] In some embodiments, the tools and methods described herein provide reduced cleaning time by removing material (e.g., dust and debris) from the blades of a turbine engine. This can be achieved by removing material while the blades are in at least a substantially assembled state within the engine. This allows cleaning at the assembly level and eliminates the need for partial or complete disassembly to clean the blades. It can also allow for cleaning entire stages of blades using the relative motion between the tool and the blade.

[0026] In some embodiments, the tools and methods described herein provide enhanced cleaning by removing surface dust and debris from the blades. This is achieved through physical contact between the tool and the blades. This physical contact allows for additional cleaning beyond the typical cleaning used.

[0027] In some embodiments, the tools and methods described herein provide more efficient and effective cleaning when used in conjunction with cleaning processes. This is achieved by using the tool while the blades rotate relative to the tool. Some cleaning processes typically require a time span between using the process to allow the chemical reaction of the process to remove material. Once the time span is over, engine operation is usually required to remove debris loosened during the chemical reaction. Using the tool in conjunction with these processes while the blades rotate allows for material removal, and engine operation can be eliminated to remove material from the blades. Similarly, physical contact used in conjunction with cleaning processes can provide more efficient material removal.

[0028] In some embodiments, the tools and methods described herein provide increased inspection capabilities. This is achieved by removing material from the surface of the blade using the tool. Removing material from the surface of the blade exposes the surface of the blade, making the tool or a second tool or device usable for inspecting the surface of the blade.

[0029] In some embodiments, the tools and methods described herein utilize fluid combined with the physical contact between the tool and the blade to provide localized cleaning. This is achieved by using a flow path within the tool to provide fluid at or near the point of contact between the tool and the blade. This allows for the localized delivery of fluid and other cleaning materials to the turbine blades.

[0030] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, where the same numerals throughout the drawings denote the same elements. Figure 1AThe image shows a perspective view of the maintenance tool 100 in its deployment position. Figure 1B This is a 3D view of tool 100 in an undeployed location. Figure 1C This is a cross-sectional view of tool 100 in its deployment position.

[0031] The maintenance tool 100 may include a body 102, a wiper mount 104, a wiper 106, an actuator 108, a mounting member 110, and a connecting flange 112. In some embodiments, the body 102 may be coupled to the wiper mount 104. The wiper 106 may be coupled to one end of the wiper mount 104. In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may be coupled to the wiper mount 104 via a connector 116. In some embodiments, the body 102 may be coupled to the mounting member 110. The wiper mount 104 may be coupled to the mounting member 110. The actuator 108 may be coupled to the wiper mount 104 or included within the wiper mount 104.

[0032] The body 102 may have a proximal end and a distal end. At the distal end of the body 102 is the connection between the body 102, the wiper mount 104, and / or the mounting component 110. A connecting flange 112 may be provided at the proximal end of the body 102. The body 102 may be formed of molded plastic, additively manufactured plastic, overmolded plastic, metal, etc.

[0033] Wiper mount 104 can be inserted into a duct mirror opening or other access opening on the housing of a turbine engine. This allows tool 100 to extend into the engine while body 102 can remain substantially outside the housing. In some embodiments, mounting member 110 can be used to secure the body 102 of tool 100 to the engine housing. In other embodiments, wiper mount 104, body 102, or their connectors can secure tool 100 to the engine housing. In some embodiments, body 102 can be mounted to the engine housing, thereby providing an insertion path for wiper mount 104 and wiper 106.

[0034] Mounting member 110 may be threaded, allowing a threaded connection between mounting member 110 and a duct mirror opening or other access opening in the engine. Similarly, in embodiments where body 102 or wiper mount 104 mounts tool 100 to the engine housing, a threaded connection may be provided. While a threaded connection may allow tool 100 to remain in a more rigid state, mounting member 110, body 102, or wiper mount 104 may be made of materials that create a push-in fit or other frictional contact between mounting member 110, body 102, or wiper mount 104 and the opening. Mounting member 110 may be formed of molded plastic, additively manufactured plastic, overmolded plastic, metal, or some other material to provide a connection between mounting member 110 and the engine opening.

[0035] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1C As shown, actuator 108 may be housed within or coupled to wiper mount 104 or body 102. Actuator 108 may be used to move wiper 106 from... Figure 1B Deploy to the undeployed locations shown in the image. Figure 1A The deployment location is shown. The actuator 108 can be deployed by means of a physical connection (such as a switch) or by means of a non-physical connection (such as a magnetic connection). The actuator 108 can be physically controlled (such as a button or some other structure (such as a switch connected to the tool)) or remotely controlled via a control signal transmitted over a network between a control device and a processor coupled to or communicating with the tool 100.

[0036] Actuator 108 can deploy wiper 106 after tool 100, and more specifically, wiper mount 104, is inserted through the access opening. While not strictly necessary, deploying wiper 106 after insertion allows wiper 106 to be larger than the access opening, thereby increasing the usable surface area of ​​wiper 106 to contact the turbine engine blades. This also allows wiper mount 104 to be larger, which can allow wiper mount 104 to handle greater pressure and force caused by the interaction between wiper 106 and the blades. In some embodiments, wiper 106 can be rigidly mounted to wiper mount 104 such that wiper 106 is in the deployed position before and after insertion.

[0037] In some embodiments, the wiper mount 104 may be formed of the same or different material as the body 102 and the wiper 106. The wiper mount 104 may be formed of molded plastic, additively manufactured plastic, overmolded plastic, metal, etc. The wiper mount 104 may be rigid, such that it does not substantially bend, flex, or otherwise deform when the wiper 106 contacts the blade. The wiper mount 104 may be formed of a flexible material, such that it deforms when the wiper 106 contacts the surface of the blade.

[0038] In some embodiments, tool 100 may include a coupling flange 112. In some embodiments, the coupling flange 112 may be used to deploy wiper 106 to a deployment location. In some embodiments, the coupling flange 112 may be used to supply fluid to wiper 106 or wiper mount 104. The coupling flange 112 may be coupled to body 102 or wiper mount 104. The coupling flange 112 may be coupled to an external fluid delivery system. The external fluid delivery system may supply fluid or other cleaning agents to tool 100. The coupling flange 112 may connect to internal channels throughout tool 100, such as fluid flow paths. In some embodiments, the fluid flow path extends from the proximal end of body 102 to wiper mount 104 and / or wiper 106. The fluid flow path can fluidly connect body 102 of tool 100 to wiper mount 104 and / or wiper 106. In some embodiments, the fluid flow path can fluidly connect wiper mount 104 to a fluid delivery system. In some embodiments, the body 102 and wiper mount 104 may be substantially hollow to provide a fluid flow path throughout the tool 100. In some embodiments, the body 102, wiper mount 104 and / or wiper 106 may be substantially hollow to provide a fluid flow path throughout the tool 100.

[0039] In some embodiments, tool 100 or other external structures provide relative movement with respect to wiper 106 and / or wiper mount 104. This relative movement can be provided by an external control system, electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic source connected to coupling flange 112 to apply rotational motion (as indicated by arrow 122) to body 102 and / or wiper mount 104. Relative movement can also be provided by an actuator coupled to an engine via an actuator accessory gearbox. The relative movement of wiper 106 and / or wiper mount 104 relative to the blades allows material to be removed from the blades upon contact with wiper 106. In some embodiments, the relative movement can be rotational movement between tool 100 and blades. Rotational movement can be rotational movement of the tool (as indicated by arrow 122) and / or rotation of the blades. In some embodiments, the relative movement can be radial displacement of tool 100 relative to the blades and / or along the length of the blades. In some embodiments, the relative movement can be rotational movement of the engine, and consequently, rotational movement of the blades.

[0040] In some embodiments, when utilizing the rotational motion of the wiper 106, the wiper 106 can contact the blade at different angles and rotational speeds. This allows for increased control over the leading edge of the reshaped blade, particularly control over the blade's geometry while reshaping the leading edge. It also allows for increased surface contact between the wiper 106 and the blade, while removing material such as dust and debris. In some other embodiments, the rotational speed of the wiper 106 can be increased and decreased to allow for the removal of more or less material within a set contact time period between the wiper 106 and the blade. Furthermore, the contact pressure between the wiper 106 and the blade can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the rotational speed of the wiper 106.

[0041] In some embodiments, the relative motion can originate from the tool 100 and the blades. Rotation of the tool 100 can be provided, as described above, and used in conjunction with the rotational motion provided by the engine and the blades. This allows for coordinated motion to achieve different speeds, contact angles, and geometries.

[0042] In some embodiments, the radial displacement or depth of the wiper 106 and / or wiper mount 104 within the engine can be adjusted by the body 102, the wiper mount 104, or other external structures (e.g., external electrical, hydraulic, or pneumatic sources). Adjusting the radial displacement of the wiper 106 and / or wiper mount 104 allows the wiper 106 to contact a greater length of the blade, and in some embodiments, to contact substantially the entire length of the blade. This can allow material to be removed from substantially the entire length and / or the entire surface of the blade.

[0043] In some embodiments, adjusting the radial displacement of the wiper 106 and / or the wiper mount 104 allows for displacement of the wiper 106 and / or the wiper mount 104 along the length of the blade. The wiper 106 may be actuated by the wiper mount 104 and / or the body 102 using a lead screw, ball screw, belt, cam, or some other mechanical structure. In some embodiments, the radial displacement of the wiper 106 and the wiper mount 104 can be adjusted by actuating the body 102 using a lead screw, ball screw, belt, cam, or some other mechanical structure.

[0044] In some embodiments, adjusting the radial displacement of the wiper 106 relative to the blade can be achieved through the interaction between the wiper 106 and the blade. The interaction between the wiper 106 and the blade can advance a nut or shaft in a reverse lead screw to displace the wiper 106 relative to the blade. In some embodiments, rotational motion can be used in conjunction with the radial displacement of the wiper 106. In these embodiments, a wedge clutch can be utilized, using combined motion to advance a nut or bearing to adjust the radial displacement.

[0045] In some embodiments, the displacement of the wiper 106 relative to the blade can occur in a single interaction, such that the blade is substantially covered in a single interaction. In other embodiments, only a portion of the blade (less than substantially the entire length) is covered in each interaction between the wiper 106 and the blade.

[0046] In some embodiments, adjusting the radial displacement of the wiper 106 relative to the blade can allow for more consistent contact between the wiper 106 and the blade, such that the wiper 106 conforms to and / or conforms to the twist, profile and / or curvature of the blade.

[0047] In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may remain substantially stationary relative to the blades during rotation, displacement, vibration, or a combination thereof. In these embodiments, the interaction between the wiper 106 and the blades may be controlled by the relative motion, rotation, and / or velocity of the rotating blades. In these embodiments, the wiper mount 104 may be formed of a substantially rigid and / or stiff material to maintain proper contact between the wiper 106 and the blades.

[0048] In some embodiments, the wiper 106 is formed of a flexible material, such as rubber. This allows the wiper 106 to deform upon contact with the blade. The flexible material allows the wiper 106 to maintain contact with the blade as it traverses the length of the blade. The flexible material also allows the wiper to clean the surface of the blade (including blades with curvature). In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may contact the leading edge or suction side of the blade. In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may contact the trailing edge or pressure side of the blade. In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may be formed of a plurality of smaller filaments, such as a brush.

[0049] In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may include a plurality of wipers, such that there is more than one wiper. The plurality of wipers may be spaced apart such that each wiper contacts the blade in a substantially sequential order when rotational motion is applied. The plurality of wipers may be flexible such that in a single interaction between the plurality of wipers and the blade, the plurality of wipers contacts at least one of the pressure side, leading edge, and suction side of the blade. The plurality of wipers may be composed of different materials such that different contact angles, contact forces, and / or contact pressures can be achieved from one wiper to another.

[0050] In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may be formed of a rigid material (e.g., molded plastic, additively manufactured plastic, overmolded plastic, metal, etc.). In these embodiments, the stiffness control between the wiper 106 and the blades may be adjusted or controlled by the wiper mount 104. In some embodiments, the wiper mount 104 may use a torque motor, a pneumatic rotary actuator, or a torsion spring to actively control the torque or force between the wiper 106 and the blades. In other embodiments, the wiper mount 104 may use a rotary damper and speed control to control the torque and force in the interaction between the wiper 106 and the blades. In some embodiments, this may be used with continuous rotation of the blades, the wiper 106, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, this may be used with rotation of the wiper 106 in discontinuous motion.

[0051] In some embodiments, a flexible wiper 106 with stiffness control may be used. In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may have a molded elastic stiffness along the length of the wiper 106 or its edge. The stiffness of the flexible wiper 106 may also be controlled by using a non-Newtonian fluid incorporated into the wiper 106 or its edge. The stiffness of the wiper 106 may also be controlled by increasing or decreasing the volume or air entering or leaving the wiper 106. In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may have two layers of edges, wherein a material (such as damping grease) is disposed between the edges to control the stiffness of the wiper 106.

[0052] In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may be at least partially coated with an abrasive coating, as referenced below. Figure 4 The abrasive coating can be formed from natural abrasives such as calcite, diamond, iron oxide, sand, feldspar, or corundum. The abrasive coating can also be a synthetic abrasive, such as CBN, ceramic, alumina, or silicon carbide. The abrasive coating can be a bonded abrasive, a coated abrasive, or a combination thereof. The abrasive coating can be uniformly applied along the length of the wiper 106 and its edges, or it can be applied to certain areas of the wiper 106, or it can be arranged in certain patterns.

[0053] In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may have cutting teeth or raised edges on its surface or edges. The cutting teeth are similar to the cutting teeth of a woodworking file or shaping tool and may have linear or cross-hatching patterns.

[0054] In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may have a non-uniformly distributed abrasive coating, such that wear varies based on the contact position of the wiper 106 relative to the blade. In some embodiments, the maximum wear set on the wiper 106 may be matched to specific needs for contact positioning or tilting between the wiper 106 and the blade.

[0055] In some embodiments, continuous feeding of material to the wiper 106 or its edge can be transmitted from the shaft through the body 102 of the tool 100 to allow the wiper 106 to operate for a longer period of time.

[0056] In some embodiments, tool 100 may be used in conjunction with fluid cleaning agents, spray cleaning agents, foam cleaning agents, dry cleaning agents, or other cleaning agents deployed to at least a portion of a turbine engine. Cleaning agents deployed to a turbine engine help remove dust and debris within the turbine engine, as well as dust and debris accumulated on the blades. The cleaning agent can be deployed to the turbine engine's compressor or other stages via gas flow paths within the turbine engine. In some embodiments, tool 100 may include fluid flow paths to allow for localized deployment of the cleaning agent.

[0057] In some embodiments, tool 100 may be used in conjunction with a cleaning agent contained in a fragile housing. The fragile housing may contain a liquid, cleaning agent, or some other substance to aid in the removal of material from the blade. The fragile housing may break through the contact interaction between the wiper 106 and the blade, thereby depositing the internal contents onto the wiper 106 and the blade.

[0058] While water or water-based cleaning may be faster or quicker than foam cleaning, foam cleaning can be more effective. Foam cleaning utilizes a chemical reaction between dust and debris and the cleaning agent or its detergent. This chemical reaction can take some time to loosen the dust and debris. Once the chemical reaction is complete or partial, engine running can be used to expel dust, debris, and any residual liquid that has been loosened from the turbine engine. Water cleaning sometimes does not utilize the chemical reaction between the cleaning agent and dust and debris, thus shortening the cleaning time, but engine running may still be used to expel water from the engine.

[0059] Wiper 106 can contribute to the effectiveness and efficiency of cleaning. Physical contact between wiper 106 and the blades can increase the effectiveness of water cleaning. Using wiper 106 while the blades are rotating allows engine operation to occur while wiper 106 cleans the blades simultaneously. In this embodiment, the rotation of the blades allows dust and debris removed or loosened by foam cleaning agents, wiper 106, or a combination thereof to be removed from the turbine engine.

[0060] In some embodiments, the wiper 106 or the wiper surface may have a smooth surface. A smooth surface can prevent fluid from penetrating into the material of the wiper 106. The smooth surface may be continuously disposed on the wiper 106. In some embodiments, the wiper may have a ridged or other textured surface to allow fluid, material, dust, and debris to pass along the surface of the wiper 106. This allows the wiper 106 to clean the surface without pushing fluid, material, dust, or debris along the surface of the blade. In some embodiments, the wiper 106 may be composed of a porous material or have a porous surface. A porous surface (such as a sponge) can allow the wiper to carry fluid along the blade.

[0061] Removing material from the blades allows for increased blade inspection. Blade inspection can occur simultaneously with or after material removal by tool 100. Inspection can be performed using a device inserted through a duct mirror opening in the turbine engine or some other access opening. During inspection, cameras or optical sensors can be used to determine if any damage, such as surface damage, has occurred to the blades. These devices can be used in conjunction with structured light to provide, and can further include, scanning the blades for inspection. Profilometry can be used to inspect the blades.

[0062] In some embodiments, an inspection device may be used to confirm that the tool 100 will not be damaged before insertion and use. If damage is detected or seen on the blade, the engine may need to remove one or more blades.

[0063] In some embodiments, the leading edge of the blade can be measured to determine the reprofiling of the blade's geometry. These methods include profilometry using structured light and imaging sensors, acoustic scanning, tilting camera angles, or combinations thereof.

[0064] Reshaping the leading edge of a blade can help improve aerodynamic efficiency. This is because the leading edge blunts over time. Blade erosion can occur when dust, sand, and debris impact the leading edge of the blade. In some cases, the greatest blade erosion due to the impact of dust, sand, and debris may occur at the maximum angle of incidence of the relative motion between the dust and the blade surface. Blade erosion can result in a flat and / or blunt geometry or profile. Airflow on the surface can be disturbed around the edge between the blunt leading edge and the adjacent surface, causing laminar flow to separate from the surface and become more turbulent closer to the leading edge. Compared to a blunt leading edge geometry or profile, a restored leading edge geometry or profile is less prone to early flow separation and allows for improved efficiency.

[0065] Now for reference Figure 2 Use the above reference. Figure 1A and 1B An exemplary method 200 of the tool 100 discussed is shown for removing material from the blades of a turbine engine.

[0066] At step 202, tool 100 is inserted into an access opening of the turbine engine, such as a duct mirror opening. In some embodiments, tool 100 may be in an undeployed position, wherein wiper 106 is substantially housed within wiper mount 104. At optional step 204, wiper 106 is deployed from wiper mount 104 via actuator 108. Deployment of wiper 106 may be accomplished by physical contact with actuator 108 or by non-physical interaction with actuator 108. Step 204 may not be used in embodiments having wiper 106 rigidly fixed to wiper mount 104.

[0067] At step 206, the wiper 106 contacts the turbine blades. At step 208, a relative motion similar to that described above can be applied between the wiper 106 and the blades. This can allow the wiper 106 to rotate relative to the blades, the blades to rotate relative to the wiper 106, the wiper 106 to undergo radial displacement relative to the blades, or a combination thereof. The rotational speed of the interaction between the wiper 106 and the blades can be varied or kept constant based on the use of the wiper 106 and the desired interaction between the wiper 106 and the blades. Similarly, the radial displacement speed of the interaction between the wiper 106 and the blades can be varied or kept constant based on the use of the wiper 106 and the desired interaction between the wiper 106 and the blades.

[0068] At an optional step 210, fluid may be delivered to the turbine engine. As described above, the fluid may be delivered locally via a channel (e.g., a flow path within tool 100). In some embodiments, the fluid may be delivered via a flow path within the turbine engine. In some embodiments, the fluid may be delivered via an access opening into which tool 100 is inserted or other access openings within the turbine engine.

[0069] At step 212, the wiper 106 removes material from the blade. The removed material can be material from the blade itself, dust, or other debris on the blade. If material from the blade itself is removed, it can be removed in a manner that repairs or reshapes the geometry of the blade. This can include reshaping the leading edge of the blade.

[0070] Now for reference Figure 3 The image shows a turbine engine stage 300. A portion of a tool (e.g., a wiper mount 304) is shown inserted into the turbine engine stage 300 via a movement indicated by arrow 310. The wiper mount 304 may accommodate a wiper 306. Once inserted, the wiper 306 may be moved from a non-deployed position such that the wiper 306 is substantially aligned with the wiper mount 304, to a deployed position, as indicated by a movement indicated by arrow 308. The deployed position may allow the wiper 306 to be substantially perpendicular to the wiper mount 304; however, the deployed position may include a position in which the wiper 306 is substantially not parallel to the wiper mount 304. In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the tool does not need to be mounted on the turbine engine housing.

[0071] Now for reference Figure 4 The image shows a wiper 406. The wiper 406 may have a connector 416. The connector 416 can be used to deploy the wiper 406, similar to the deployment described above. The connector 416 can allow control of the interaction between the wiper 406 and the blade 408. The wiper 406 or its wiper surface may have a contact surface material 414. The contact surface material 414 may be an abrasive material as described above to remove material from the blade. The contact surface material 414 may be formed of the same material as the wiper 406. The contact surface material 414 may be a continuous surface along the wiper 406, or the contact surface material 414 may be discontinuous.

[0072] In some embodiments, material can be removed from blade 408 by relative movement between wiper 406 and blade 408. In this embodiment, blade 408 rotates relative to wiper 406 via movement indicated by arrow 410.

[0073] Now for reference Figure 5Wiper 506 is shown. Wiper 506 may have a structural compliance notch 502. The structural compliance notch 502 may allow for increased control over the interaction between wiper 506 and blade 508. This control may include varying the amount of surface shrinkage pressure or force between wiper 506 and blade 508. This may also include distorting wiper 506 to contact more or different surfaces of blade 508. The distortion of wiper 506 from a first state (shown in dashed lines) to a second state (shown in solid lines) due to the interaction between wiper 506 and blade 508 is shown via arrow 516.

[0074] The wiper 506 or its wiper surface may also have a contact surface material 514. The contact surface material 514 may be an abrasive material as described above to remove material from the blade. The contact surface material 514 may be formed of the same material as the wiper 506. The contact surface material 514 may be a continuous surface along the wiper 506, or the contact surface material may be discontinuous.

[0075] In some embodiments, material can be removed from blade 508 by relative movement between wiper 506 and blade 508. In this embodiment, blade 508 rotates relative to wiper 506 via movement indicated by arrow 510.

[0076] Now for reference Figure 6 Wiper 606 is shown. Wiper 606 may have material compliance, such that wiper 606 deforms from a first state (shown in dashed lines) to a second state (shown in solid lines) due to the interaction between wiper 606 and blade 608. The deformation or discontinuity of wiper 606 due to the interaction between wiper 606 and blade 608 is shown via arrow 616. The material compliance of wiper 606 can allow the profile of wiper 606 to match the curvature of blade 608 to increase the surface contact between wiper 606 and blade 608. The material compliance of wiper 606 can be varied to allow control over the amount of material removed from blade 608. Wiper 606 with higher material compliance can remove less material or deform more when contacted by blade 608. Wiper 606 with lower material compliance can remove more material or deform less when contacted by blade 608.

[0077] The wiper 606 may also have a contact surface material 614. The contact surface material 614 may be an abrasive material as described above to remove material from the blade. The contact surface material 614 may be formed of the same material as the wiper 606. The contact surface material 614 may be a continuous surface along the wiper 606, or the contact surface material may be discontinuous.

[0078] In some embodiments, material can be removed from blade 608 by relative movement between wiper 606 and blade 608. In this embodiment, blade 608 rotates relative to wiper 606 via movement indicated by arrow 610.

[0079] refer to Figure 7 The image shows a reverse-drive wiper mount 700. The reverse-drive wiper mount 700 may include a wiper 706, a wiper mount 704 with reverse threads 720, and a reverse nut 718. The reverse-drive wiper mount 700 can be used to adjust the radial displacement of the wiper 706 within the engine, as indicated by arrow 724. The radial position of the wiper 706 may correspond to a position along the length of the blade and / or the edge of the blade, such that the wiper can substantially cover the entire length of the blade and / or the edge of the blade. In some embodiments, the reverse-drive wiper mount 700 can be used to adjust the radial displacement (as indicated by arrow 724) while the wiper 706 rotates (as indicated by arrow 722).

[0080] Further aspects of this disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses:

[0081] A turbine engine maintenance tool includes: a wiper mount; and a wiper coupled to the wiper mount, the wiper including a wiper surface; wherein when the wiper mount is inserted into an inlet opening of a gas turbine engine, the wiper surface of the wiper is configured to contact the blades of the gas turbine engine and remove material or debris from the blades via relative movement between the blades and the wiper.

[0082] The turbine engine repair tool according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes an actuator coupled to the wiper mount, the actuator being configured to deploy the wiper from a non-deployment position to a deployment position.

[0083] Turbine engine repair tools according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the wiper is fixedly connected to the wiper mount.

[0084] Turbine engine repair tools according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the wiper is movably coupled to the wiper mount.

[0085] The turbine engine repair tool according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes a body coupled to the wiper mount, the body being configured to mount the tool at a position relative to the access opening of the gas turbine engine.

[0086] The turbine engine repair tool according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes a body that provides an insertion path for the wiper mount and the wiper.

[0087] The turbine engine maintenance tool according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes the wiper mounting and a channel within the wiper, through which fluid is delivered to the gas turbine engine.

[0088] The turbine engine repair tool according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes a coupling flange coupled to the wiper mount, wherein the coupling flange is fluidly coupled to an external fluid delivery system that is fluidly in communication with the wiper mount to supply the fluid to the tool.

[0089] Turbine engine maintenance tools according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the wiper surface is at least one of a textured surface, a smooth surface, and a porous surface, wherein the wiper surface is capable of storing or conveying fluid for removing material from the blades.

[0090] According to any of the preceding clauses, the turbine engine maintenance tool, wherein the relative motion with respect to the blade includes at least one of radial displacement, rotation, and vibration.

[0091] Turbine engine repair tools according to any of the foregoing clauses, wherein the wiper comprises a plurality of filaments or flexible material.

[0092] A method for servicing a gas turbine engine includes: inserting a tool into an inlet opening of the gas turbine engine, the tool including: a wiper mount; and a wiper coupled to the wiper mount, the wiper including a wiper surface; contacting a blade of the gas turbine engine with the wiper; and removing material or debris from the blade via relative movement between the blade and the wiper.

[0093] According to any of the foregoing clauses, the movement includes adjusting the position of the wiper relative to the blade by rotating the wiper.

[0094] According to any of the foregoing descriptions of the method, the movement includes adjusting the position of the wiper relative to the blade by rotating the blade.

[0095] According to any of the foregoing clauses, the movement includes adjusting the position of the wiper relative to the blade, controlled by a control system coupled to the tool.

[0096] According to any of the foregoing clauses, the wiper surface is at least one of a textured surface, a smooth surface, and a porous surface, wherein the wiper surface is capable of storing or conveying fluid for removing material from the blade.

[0097] According to any of the foregoing clauses of the method, wherein the tool further includes a body coupled to the wiper mount, the body being configured to mount the tool at a position relative to the access opening of the gas turbine engine.

[0098] According to any of the foregoing clauses, fluid is delivered to the gas turbine engine through a channel within the wiper mount and at least one of the wipers.

[0099] The method according to any of the foregoing clauses further includes delivering fluid to the gas turbine engine through the gas flow path of the gas turbine engine.

[0100] According to any of the foregoing descriptions of the method, wherein the wiper further comprises a plurality of filaments or flexible material.

[0101] This written description uses examples to disclose this disclosure, including best practices, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice this disclosure, including making and using any device or system and methods of making any combination. The patent scope of this disclosure is defined by the claims, but may include other examples that would occur to a person skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to fall within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that are not indistinguishable from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A turbine engine repair tool, characterized in that, include: Wiper mounting hardware; A wiper, the wiper being coupled to the wiper mounting, the wiper including a wiper surface; A lead screw, which is connected to the wiper mount, to provide relative movement between the blades of the gas turbine engine and the wiper; as well as An actuator is coupled to the wiper mount and configured to deploy the wiper from a non-deployment position to a deployment position, wherein, in the non-deployment position, the wiper is substantially housed within the wiper mount, and in the deployment position, the wiper is substantially perpendicular to the wiper mount. When the wiper mounting is inserted into the inlet of the gas turbine engine, the wiper surface is configured to contact the blades of the gas turbine engine and remove material or debris from the blades via the relative movement between the blades and the wiper.

2. The tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes a body coupled to the wiper mount, the body being configured to mount the tool at a position relative to the inlet opening of the gas turbine engine.

3. The tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes a body that provides an insertion path for the wiper mount and the wiper.

4. The tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The wiper surface is at least one of a textured surface, a smooth surface, and a porous surface, wherein the wiper surface is capable of storing or conveying fluid for removing material from the blade.

5. The tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The relative motion with respect to the blade includes at least one of radial displacement, rotation, and vibration.

6. The tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The wiper comprises multiple filaments or flexible materials.

7. The tool according to claim 1, characterized in that, in, The lead screw includes a reverse lead screw.

8. A method for repairing a gas turbine engine, characterized in that, include: Insert the tool, which is in an undeployed position, into the inlet opening of the gas turbine engine. The tools include: Wiper mounting hardware; and A wiper, the wiper being coupled to the wiper mounting, the wiper including a wiper surface; The blades of the gas turbine engine are brought into contact with the wiper; and Material or debris is removed from the blade via relative movement between the blade and the wiper; wherein when the tool is in the undeployed position, the wiper is substantially housed within the wiper mount.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, in, The relative motion further includes adjusting the position of the wiper relative to the blades of the gas turbine engine by rotating the wiper.

10. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, in, The wiper surface is at least one of a textured surface, a smooth surface, and a porous surface, wherein the wiper surface is capable of storing or conveying fluid for removing material from the blade.

11. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, in, The tool further includes a body coupled to the wiper mount, the body being configured to mount the tool at a position relative to the inlet opening of the gas turbine engine.

12. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, It further includes delivering fluid to the gas turbine engine through the gas flow path of the gas turbine engine.

13. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, in, The wiper further comprises multiple filaments or flexible materials.

14. A turbine engine repair tool, characterized in that, include: Wiper mounting hardware; A wiper, the wiper being coupled to the wiper mounting, the wiper including a wiper surface; A ball screw, which is connected to the wiper mount, to provide relative movement between the blades of the gas turbine engine and the wiper; as well as An actuator is coupled to the wiper mount and configured to deploy the wiper from a non-deployment position to a deployment position, wherein, in the non-deployment position, the wiper is substantially housed within the wiper mount, and in the deployment position, the wiper is substantially perpendicular to the wiper mount. When the wiper mounting is inserted into the inlet of the gas turbine engine, the wiper surface is configured to contact the blades of the gas turbine engine and remove material or debris from the blades via the relative movement between the blades and the wiper.

15. The tool according to claim 14, characterized in that, It further includes a body coupled to the wiper mount, the body being configured to mount the tool at a position relative to the inlet opening of the gas turbine engine.

16. The tool according to claim 14, characterized in that, It further includes a body that provides an insertion path for the wiper mount and the wiper.

17. The tool according to claim 14, characterized in that, in, The wiper surface is at least one of a textured surface, a smooth surface, and a porous surface, wherein the wiper surface is capable of storing or conveying fluid for removing material from the blade.

18. The tool according to claim 14, characterized in that, in, The relative motion with respect to the blade includes at least one of radial displacement, rotation, and vibration.

19. The tool according to claim 14, characterized in that, in, The wiper comprises multiple filaments or flexible materials.

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