Actuation system for turbine shroud

Abstract

A manipulation system includes an elongate member including a first end and a second end and a first bend located in the elongate member. The elongate member is positioned in a slot of a turbine shroud. A base retention member extends from the first end of the elongate member to engage and retain a first end of the turbine shroud on the elongate member, and a slide retainer is configured to slidably receive the elongate member. The sliding retainer is shaped and sized to slidably engage in the slot and selectively retain the second end of the turbine shroud in a manipulated position on the elongate member. A lock is coupled to the slide holder and is selectively movable between a locked position, in which the lock holds the slide holder in an actuated position, and an unlocked position, in which the slide holder is free to slide on the elongate member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to handling systems, and more particularly to handling systems for turbine shrouds. Background Art

[0002] Industrial components such as turbine shrouds can be very heavy. In addition, many industrial components have physical structures that make them difficult to manipulate and move safely. For example, Figure 1 A perspective view of an exemplary turbine shroud 118 is shown, which includes a body 119 having a concave opening 127 in the form of a curved slot 128 therein. The body 119 of the turbine shroud 118 is also curved along its length, so it is challenging to manipulate securely. Each turbine shroud 118 is part of a group of turbine shrouds for a turbine of a specific stage among multiple stages. The curved slots 128 are used to mount the turbine shroud 118 on the inner circumference of the turbine housing together with a group of identical turbine shrouds to form a turbine shroud stage. The turbine shroud 118 for a given stage has different circumferential, axial and radial dimensions than the turbine shroud for another stage. Therefore, for a given turbine, many different kinds of turbine shrouds 118 must be manipulated, and for a group of turbines of different sizes, even more kinds of turbine shrouds must be manipulated.

[0003] During manufacturing or during field assembly, the turbine shroud 118 must be lifted and moved so that it can be packaged for shipping purposes or installed in a turbine. In some cases, such as when the turbine shroud is tightly positioned to either side of a holding pocket in a shipping container, access to the turbine shroud is limited. Typically, the lifting is performed using some kind of handling system connected to the tip shroud 118 and some kind of lifting equipment (such as a crane, forklift, or robotic arm) that lifts the shroud using the handling system. Figure 2 A schematic diagram for a turbine shroud 118 ( Figure 1 ). The manipulation system 130 and similar systems use a basic structure to grasp the turbine shroud 118. For example, the manipulation system 130 includes a pair of opposing arms 132, 134 that can be spatially adjusted using a linear actuator 136 (such as a manually operated worm gear) to selectively grasp the turbine shroud 118 ( Figure 1 ). The manipulation system 130 depends on sufficient force being applied by the linear actuator 136. In addition, while the simple design of the manipulation system 130 enables it to manipulate almost any turbine shroud 118 regardless of shroud size or shape, it is not ideal for any of them. Therefore, the manipulation system 130 may complicate the process by requiring several grasping, moving, releasing, and re-grasping steps. For example, a conventional manipulation system 130 requires the tip shroud 118 to be grasped, moved, released, and re-grasped three times to install it in the turbine. Summary of the invention

[0004] All aspects, examples and features mentioned below can be combined in any technically possible way.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a manipulation system for a turbine shroud having a slot therein, the manipulation system comprising: an elongated member comprising a first end and a second end, the elongated member comprising a first bend therein, the elongated member being configured to be positioned in the slot of the turbine shroud; a base retaining member extending from the first end of the elongated member to engage and retain the first end of the turbine shroud on the elongated member; a sliding retainer comprising a body having an opening configured to slidably receive the elongated member, the body of the sliding retainer being configured to slidably engage in the slot and selectively retain the second end of the turbine shroud in a manipulation position on the elongated member; and a locking member coupled to the sliding retainer and selectively movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the locking member retains the sliding retainer in the manipulation position and wherein the sliding retainer freely slides on the elongated member.

[0006] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes according to any of the aforementioned aspects, and the locking member includes a pin, which is capable of selectively moving between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the pin extends through a first opening in the slender member and holds the sliding retainer in the manipulated position, and in the unlocked position, the pin is retracted from the first opening in the slender member and allows the sliding retainer to slide freely on the slender member.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the preceding aspects and wherein in the unlocked position the pin is positioned in a second opening in the elongated member spaced apart from the first opening.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes according to any of the preceding aspects, and the pin comprises a spring loaded pin coupled to the sliding retainer.

[0009] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the preceding aspects and the first bend in the elongated member is configured to engage an inner surface of the slot and position the base retaining member to engage and retain the first end of the turbine shroud on the elongated member.

[0010] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes an aspect according to any of the aforementioned aspects, and wherein the sliding retainer includes a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side, and wherein the first side of the sliding retainer extends farther from the first end of the sliding retainer than the second side of the sliding retainer, and wherein the first side of the sliding retainer engages the same inner surface of the slot of the turbine shroud as the first bend of the elongated member.

[0011] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the preceding aspects, and the second side of the sliding retainer includes an inclined surface extending from the elongated member at less than 90°.

[0012] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes according to any of the aforementioned aspects, and the body of the sliding retainer has a first portion and a second portion, the first portion is shaped and sized to be slidably engaged in the narrow groove, and the second portion is larger than the first portion and is constructed to abut the second end of the turbine shroud to selectively retain the second end of the turbine shroud in the operating position on the slender member.

[0013] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes according to any of the preceding aspects, and further comprising a spacing member coupled to the elongated member adjacent the base retaining member.

[0014] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes according to any of the preceding aspects, and further includes a handle coupled to the second end of the elongated member.

[0015] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the preceding aspects and the base retaining member extending from the first end of the elongated member includes a second bend in the elongated member.

[0016] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes according to any one of the aforementioned aspects, and the slender member includes a plurality of slender members, each slender member having a corresponding first bend of a different length and a different angle compared to other slender members among the plurality of slender members to adapt to a selected turbine shroud among a plurality of different turbine shrouds, and wherein the sliding retainer includes a plurality of sliding retainers, each sliding retainer having at least one of a different shape and a different size compared to other sliding retainers among the plurality of sliding retainers to adapt to the narrow slot of the turbine shroud of a selected turbine shroud among the plurality of different turbine shrouds.

[0017] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any one of the preceding aspects, and the slot is a curved slot.

[0018] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a manipulation system for a first group of turbine shrouds having a first size and at least one second group of turbine shrouds having a second size different from the first group, both groups of turbine shrouds having curved slots located therein, and for each of the first group and the second group, the manipulation system includes: a slender member, the slender member including a first end and a second end, the slender member including a first bend located therein, the slender member and the first bend being configured to be positioned in the curved slots of the turbine shrouds of the corresponding group; a base retaining member extending from the first end of the slender member to engage and retain the first end of the turbine shroud of the corresponding group in the slender member. member; a sliding retainer, the sliding retainer comprising a main body having an opening, the opening being configured to slidably receive the slender member for the corresponding group of turbine shrouds, the main body of the sliding retainer being configured to slidably engage in the curved slot of the corresponding group of turbine shrouds and selectively retain the second end of the corresponding group of turbine shrouds in an operating position on the slender member; and a locking member, the locking member being connected to the sliding retainer and being selectively movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the locking member retains the sliding retainer in the operating position, and in which the sliding retainer slides freely on the slender member.

[0019] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes according to any of the aforementioned aspects, and the locking member includes a pin, which is capable of selectively moving between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the pin extends through a first opening in the slender member and holds the sliding retainer in the manipulated position, and in the unlocked position, the pin is retracted from the first opening in the slender member and allows the sliding retainer to slide freely on the slender member.

[0020] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes any of the preceding aspects and wherein in the unlocked position the pin is positioned in a second opening in the elongated member spaced apart from the first opening.

[0021] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes according to any of the preceding aspects, and the pin comprises a spring loaded pin coupled to the sliding retainer.

[0022] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes according to any one of the aforementioned aspects, and the first bend in the slender member is constructed to engage the inner surface of the curved slot of the corresponding group of turbine shrouds and position the base retaining member to engage and retain the first end of the corresponding group of turbine shrouds on the slender member.

[0023] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes an aspect according to any of the aforementioned aspects, and wherein the sliding retainer includes a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side, and wherein the first side of the sliding retainer extends farther from the first end of the sliding retainer than the second side of the sliding retainer, and wherein the first side of the sliding retainer engages the same inner surface of the curved slot of the turbine shroud as the first curved portion of the slender member.

[0024] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes according to any one of the aforementioned aspects, and the main body of the sliding retainer has a first part and a second part, the shape and size of the first part are configured to be slidingly engaged in the curved slot of the turbine shroud in the corresponding group of turbine shrouds, and the second part is larger than the first part and is constructed to be adjacent to the second end of the turbine shroud in the corresponding group to selectively maintain the second end of the turbine shroud in the corresponding group of turbine shrouds in the operating position on the slender member.

[0025] Another aspect of the present disclosure includes a method for grasping a turbine shroud having a curved slot therein, the method comprising: positioning an elongated member in the curved slot of the turbine shroud, the elongated member comprising a first end, a second end, a first bend between the first end and the second end, and a base retaining member, the base retaining member extending from the first end and engaging and retaining the first end of the turbine shroud on the elongated member; sliding a sliding retainer along the elongated member and into the curved slot at the second end of the turbine shroud to a manipulation position on the elongated member, the sliding retainer being constructed to abut the second end of the turbine shroud at the manipulation position; and locking the sliding retainer in a locked position, wherein the sliding retainer is fixed relative to the elongated member at the manipulation position and the sliding retainer grasps the turbine shroud and retains the turbine shroud on the elongated member.

[0026] Two or more aspects described in this disclosure (including those described in this summary) can be combined to form implementations not specifically described herein.

[0027] The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the drawings and description below. Other features, objects, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] These and other features of the present disclosure will be more readily understood from the following detailed description of various aspects of the present disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings which depict various embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein:

[0029] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a turbine shroud according to the prior art;

[0030] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a manipulation system according to the prior art;

[0031] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a turbine system is shown;

[0032] Figure 4 Shows Figure 3 an enlarged cross-sectional view of a portion of a gas turbine in FIG.

[0033] Figure 5 shows a front view of a handling system for a turbine shroud according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a handling system operably coupled to an exemplary turbine shroud according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B shows a perspective view of an exemplary elongated member for use in various manipulation systems according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B shows a perspective view of an exemplary sliding retainer for use with various manipulation systems according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0037] Fig. 9 A cross-sectional view showing a sliding retainer on an elongated member of a steering system in a locked position and a steering position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C An enlarged cross-sectional view showing a slide retainer locked in an operating position, unlocked in an operating position, and unlocked in a storage position, respectively, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Fig.11 shows a cross-sectional view of a manipulation system for coupling to a turbine shroud in an initial position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0040] Fig.12 A cross-sectional view showing positioning of a steering system in a slot of a turbine shroud according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] FIG. 13A to FIG. 13DVarious views of an exemplary handling system for a particular set of turbine shrouds are shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14D The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown FIG. 13A to FIG. 13D various views of an exemplary handling system for a different set of turbine shrouds; and

[0043] FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown FIG. 13A to FIG. 13D and FIG. 14A to FIG. 14D Various views of an illustrative handling system for a different set of turbine shrouds.

[0044] It should be noted that the drawings of the present disclosure are not necessarily drawn to scale. The drawings are intended to depict only typical aspects of the present disclosure and therefore should not be considered to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In the drawings, like numbers represent like elements between drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] First, in order to clearly describe the present disclosure, it will be necessary to select certain terms when referring to and describing relevant machine components within an exemplary application of a turbine. In doing so, common industry terms will be used and adopted in a manner consistent with their accepted meanings, if possible. Unless otherwise stated, such terms should be given a broad interpretation consistent with the context of the present application and the scope of the appended claims. A person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that several different or overlapping terms may be used to refer to a particular component. An object that may be described herein as a single part may include multiple components and be referenced in another context as consisting of multiple components. Alternatively, an object that may be described herein as comprising multiple components may be referred to elsewhere as a single part.

[0046] In addition, several descriptive terms may be used regularly throughout this document, and it should prove helpful to define these terms at the beginning of this section. It is often necessary to describe parts that are in different radial positioning relative to a central axis. The term "axial" refers to movement or positioning parallel to an axis (e.g., the axis of a turbine). The term "radial" refers to movement or positioning perpendicular to an axis (e.g., the axis of a turbine). In cases such as these, if a first component resides closer to the axis than a second component, this document will describe the first component as being "radially inward" or "inside" the second component. On the other hand, if the first component resides farther away from the axis than the second component, this document may describe the first component as being "radially outward" or "outside" the second component. Finally, the term "circumferential" refers to movement or positioning around an axis, such as the circumferential inner surface of a housing extending around the axis of a turbine. As described above, it should be understood that such terms can be applied relative to the axis of the turbine.

[0047] In addition, several descriptive terms may be used regularly herein, as described below. The terms "first," "second," and "third" may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to indicate the position or importance of individual components.

[0048] The terms used herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms "a", "a kind of" and "the" are intended to also include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that when used in the specification, the terms "include" and / or "comprise" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups. "Optional" or "optionally" means that the features or elements described subsequently may exist, may also exist, and the description includes instances where the features exist and instances where the features do not exist.

[0049] Where an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "engaged," "disengaged," "connected to," or "coupled to," or "mounted to" another element or layer, it may be directly located on, engaged to, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or there may be intervening elements or layers. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on," "directly engaged to," "directly connected to," or "directly coupled to" another element or layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers. Other words used to describe relationships between elements should be interpreted in a similar manner (e.g., "between" versus "directly between," "adjacent" versus "directly adjacent," etc.). As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The verb forms "couple" and "mount" are used interchangeably herein.

[0050] As noted above, the present disclosure provides a handling system for a turbine shroud having a slot therein, which slot may be curved. The handling system may include an elongated member including a first end and a second end and a first bend therein. The elongated member is configured to be positioned in the slot of the turbine shroud. A base retaining member extends from the first end of the elongated member to engage and retain the first end of the turbine shroud on the elongated member, and a sliding retainer is configured to receive the elongated member slidably. The shape and size of the sliding retainer are configured to be slidably engaged in the slot and selectively retain the second end of the turbine shroud in a maneuvering position on the elongated member. A locking member is coupled to the sliding retainer and is selectively movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, in which the locking member retains the sliding retainer in the maneuvering position, and in which the unlocked position, the sliding retainer slides freely on the elongated member. The handling system is customizable for any type of turbine shrouds of different sizes and addresses both factory and field handling requirements. The system allows for ergonomic and safe attachment despite limited access to the turbine shroud, for example due to the tight fit of the shipping container. The system also reduces cycle time in the field by allowing the turbine shroud to be installed in the factory, thereby reducing field manipulation and potential damage to capital components.

[0051] Go to Figure 3 , a schematic diagram of a turbine system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 3 The turbine system 100 shown may be a conventional gas turbine system. However, it should be understood that the turbine system 100 may be configured as any conventional turbine system (e.g., a steam turbine system) configured to generate power. Therefore, for the sake of clarity, a brief description of the turbine system 100 is provided. Figure 3 As shown, the turbine system 100 may include a compressor 102, a combustor 104 fluidly coupled to the compressor 102, and a turbine 106 fluidly coupled to the combustor 104 for receiving combustion products from the combustor 104. The turbine 106 may also be coupled to the compressor 102 via a shaft 108. The shaft 108 may also be coupled to a generator 110 for generating electricity during operation of the turbine system 100.

[0052] During operation of the turbine system 100, as Figure 3As shown, the compressor 102 may inhale air and compress the inlet air, and then move the compressed inlet air to the combustor 104. Once in the combustor 104, the compressed air may be mixed with combustion products (e.g., fuel) and ignited. Once ignited, the compressed air-combustion product mixture is transformed into pressurized hot exhaust gas (hot gas) that flows through the turbine 106. The hot gas flows through the turbine 106, and specifically, through a plurality of rotating blades 112 (e.g., blade stages) coupled to the shaft 108, thereby rotating the blades 112 and the shaft 108 of the turbine system 100. In addition, the hot gas passes through a plurality of stator nozzles 114 (e.g., stator nozzle stages) coupled to the casing 116 of the turbine 106, wherein each stage of the stator nozzle 114 corresponds to each blade in the plurality of blades 112 and may be positioned between each blade. The stator nozzle 114 may help guide the hot gas through the turbine 106 to continuously pass through, and then rotate each stage of the plurality of blades 112 of the turbine 106 and the shaft 108. When the shaft 108 of the turbine system 100 rotates, the compressor 102 and the turbine 106 are driven and the generator 110 may generate power (eg, electrical current).

[0053] Go to Figure 4 , showing an embodiment according to the present invention Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of a portion of turbine 106 is shown. Figure 4 As shown, the turbine 106 may also include a plurality of turbine shrouds or turbine shroud blocks 118 (hereinafter referred to as “turbine shrouds 118”) that are coupled to the casing 116 and are circumferentially arranged around an inner surface 120 of the casing 116. Figure 4 As shown, a plurality of turbine shrouds 118 may be coupled to an inner surface 120 of the casing 116 and may be positioned adjacent to the tips 122 of the blades 112. In addition, a plurality of turbine shrouds 118 may be positioned between the stator nozzles 114 of each stage and also coupled to the casing 116 of the turbine 106. A plurality of turbine shrouds 118 may be circumferentially coupled to the casing 116 and positioned within the casing to provide an outer boundary for the hot gases as they flow through the turbine 106. That is, a plurality of turbine shrouds 118 may be positioned within the casing 116 to substantially prevent the hot gases from flowing into an area 124, where the hot gases may not flow through the turbine 106 and contact the blades 112 of each stage and / or the stator nozzles 114. When the hot gases of the turbine 106 flow into the area 124, the hot gases may not be able to drive the blades 112 of each stage of the turbine 106, thereby ultimately reducing the turbine system 100 ( Figure 3) within the turbine system 100. Each stage of the turbine system 100 may include a plurality or a group of turbine shrouds 118 that are sized and shaped to be appropriate for the location of the corresponding stage. Any number of turbine shrouds 118 may be used in a given group, for example, depending on the circumferential extent of each turbine shroud 118 and the size of a given stage. Thus, the turbine system 100 may have a first group of turbine shrouds 118 (i.e., for a given stage) and at least one second group of turbine shrouds 118 (i.e., for one or more other stages), the first group of turbine shrouds having a first size and the second group of turbine shrouds having a second size different from the first group. As will be described, the manipulation system 150 may provide its components of different sizes to manipulate turbine shrouds 118 of different sizes for a given turbine system 100 or even a group of different turbine systems 100.

[0054] like Figure 4 As shown, the inner surface 120 of the casing 116 may include a connection member 126 configured to couple the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 of a given set of shrouds to the casing 116 of the turbine 106. More specifically, the casing 116 may include a convex connection member 126 configured to engage a concave opening 127 defined in the curved body 119 of each of the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 for coupling the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 to the casing 116. Figure 4 As shown, the connection member 126 may be positioned substantially in line with the blades 112 and may be positioned between the stator nozzles 114 of each stage of the turbine 106. The connection member 126 may be a continuous member positioned circumferentially about the casing 116 such that each of the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 may be slidably engaged or coupled to the connection member 126 and then positioned circumferentially about the casing 116.

[0055] like Figure 1 As shown, the turbine shroud 118 may have a curved body 119 in which a slot 128 is formed, for example, using wire EDM or additive manufacturing. In some embodiments, the slot 128 may be curved. That is, the concave opening 127 may take the form of a curved slot 128 that is curved along its length to be generally parallel to the curvature of the curved body 119 of the turbine shroud 118. The slot 128 (hereinafter referred to as the "curved slot 128") is also referred to as a hook. For the purpose of description, as shown in FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 4As shown, the male connection member 126 and the curved slot 128 are shown as T-shaped. Although shown as a male T-shaped connection member 126 for mating with a female T-shaped curved slot 128, the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 may include various alternative shapes for coupling the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 to the housing 116. For example, the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 may include a female cross-shaped opening 127 (not shown, i.e., a cross-shaped curved slot 128), and the connection member 126 of the housing 116 may include a male cross-shaped connector that is configured to generally receive the female connection portion of the turbine shroud 118 for coupling the plurality of turbine shrouds 118 to the housing 116 of the turbine 106. Any variety of mating connection members 126 of different shapes and curved slots 128 shaped to receive and / or retain the turbine shrouds 118 therein may be used.

[0056] The turbine shroud 118 generally has a first end 172 and an opposing second end 174. The turbine shroud 118 may vary in a variety of ways depending on the given turbine system 100 in which it is used and the stage of the turbine 106 in which it is used. For example, the overall size (radial, axial and / or circumferential extent) and weight of each turbine shroud 118 may vary to accommodate a given stage and / or a given turbine 106. Additionally, the curvature of the body 119 and the curvature of the curved slots 128 may vary to accommodate a given stage and / or a given turbine system. Additionally, as previously described, the shape and / or size of the curved slots 128 may vary. As will be further described, Figure 6 , FIG. 13A to FIG. 13D , FIG. 14A to FIG. 14D as well as FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D Different sizes of turbine shrouds 118 are shown.

[0057] Figure 5 A front view of a manipulation system 150 for a turbine shroud 118 having a curved slot 128 ( FIG. 1 ) away from the turbine shroud 118 is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 ). Figure 6 A handling system 150 is shown operably coupled to an exemplary turbine shroud 118 in a handling position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0058] The manipulation system 150 includes an elongated member 152 having a first end 154 and a second end 156 . FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B 1 and 15. The perspective views of two examples of elongated members 152A and 152B having different configurations are shown. The elongated member 152 also includes a first bend 158 therein, that is, located between the first end 154 and the second end 156. Figure 6As shown, the elongated member 152 is configured to be positioned in the curved slot 128 of the turbine shroud 118. To this end, the first bend 158 may have an angle α. The bend 158 divides the elongated member 152 into a first upper portion 162 and a second lower portion 160. As will be described, the length L1 and the angle α of the lower portion 160 may be configured to allow the elongated member 152 to pass through the curved slots 128 in turbine shrouds 118 of different sizes and shapes. The length L1 and the angle α of the lower portion 160 may also be configured to allow the elongated member 152 of the manipulation system 150 to securely grasp the turbine shroud 118 in its manipulated position.

[0059] The manipulation system 150 also includes a base retaining member 170 extending from the first end 154 of the elongated member 152 to engage and retain the first end 172 of the turbine shroud 118 on the elongated member 152. As described above, the turbine shroud 118 also has a second end 174 located at the opposite end of the turbine shroud 118. The base retaining member 170 extends from the elongated member 152 by an angle β. The base retaining member 170 may include any element capable of engaging the first end 172 of the turbine shroud 118. More specifically, the base retaining member 170 allows the turbine shroud 118 to be lifted together with the elongated member 152, that is, it prevents the turbine shroud 118 from being further moved off or away from the elongated member 152. In certain embodiments, the base retaining member 170 may be a separate element coupled to the elongated member 152, such as by welding, fasteners, etc. However, in certain embodiments, the base retaining member 170 includes a second bend 176 in the elongated member 152, thereby forming the base retaining member 170 from a third portion 178 of the elongated member 152. Thus, the base retaining member 170 can be integral with the remainder of the elongated member 152 and bend at a non-linear angle β relative to the elongated member 152 so as to extend from the remainder of the elongated member 152. In this embodiment, the second bend 176 has an angle β, i.e., between the base retaining member 170 and (the lower portion 160 of) the elongated member 152. Thus, the base retaining member 170 extends from the elongated member 152 by an angle β. As will be described, the base retaining member 170 has a length L2 that is sized to allow the base retaining member 170 to move through the curved slot 128 unimpeded but engage the end 172 of the turbine shroud 118 and manipulate the shroud.

[0060] The manipulation system 150 may also optionally include a spacing member 180 coupled to the elongated member 152 adjacent the base retention member 170. The shape and size of the spacing member 180 may be selectively set to ensure proper positioning of the base retention member 170 and the remainder of the elongated member 152 relative to the turbine shroud 118 in the manipulated position ( Figure 6). While the spacer member 180 is coupled to the lower portion 160 of the elongated member 152, other locations are possible, such as on the base retaining member 170. The spacer member 180 may be coupled using any form of connection, such as a removable fastener such as a threaded fastener (bolt, screw) or rivet, or a permanent fastener such as a weld, or a combination thereof. The spacer member 180 may be replaced over the life of the manipulation system 150 to continue to ensure proper positioning of the base retaining member 170 and the elongated member 152 relative to the turbine shroud 118 regardless of whether there is wear on the manipulation system 150. For example, during use, wear may occur on the elongated member 152, the base retaining member 170, and / or the spacer member 180. The spacer member 180 may be made of the same material as the elongated member 152 and / or the base retaining member 170, or may alternatively include a softer, wear-resistant material, such as plastic.

[0061] The manipulation system 150 includes a sliding retainer 190 including a body 192 having an opening 194 configured to slidingly receive the elongated member 152 . FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B shows a perspective view of a sliding retainer 190 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig. 9 An enlarged cross-sectional view of the sliding retainer 190 is shown in the manipulated position. As will be described, the body 192 of the sliding retainer 190 is configured to slidingly engage in the curved slot 128 and selectively retain the second end 174 of the turbine shroud 118 in the manipulated position on the slender member 152. In addition, the sliding retainer 190 and its body 192 are configured (e.g., shaped and sized) to position the sliding retainer 190 relative to the curved slot 128, position the slender member 152 relative to the curved slot 128, and / or ensure that the turbine shroud 118 is securely grasped in the manipulated position. The manipulated position, for example, Figure 6 and Fig. 9 . The opening 194 may have a cross-section having a shape and size that allows the elongated member 152 (more specifically, the upper portion 162 thereof) to slide freely therein. That is, the sliding retainer 190 may slide along the elongated member 152. The opening 194 need not have exactly the same cross-sectional shape as the elongated member 152.

[0062] Further references FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B and Fig. 9 , the sliding retainer 190 further includes a first upper end 196, a second lower end 198, a first side 200, and a second side 202. The sliding retainer 190 may further include a third side 201 and a fourth side 203. The first side 200 and the second side 202 do not necessarily extend the same distance from each upper end 196. For example, in FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B and Fig. 9, the first side 200 of the sliding retainer 190 can extend farther from the upper end 196 of the sliding retainer 190 (in the vertical direction as shown) than the second side 202 of the sliding retainer 190. In other embodiments, the sides 200, 202 can extend the same distance from the upper end 196. As will be further described, and as Figure 6 and Fig. 9 As shown, the first side 200 of the sliding retainer 190 engages the same inner surface 204 of the curved slot 128 of the turbine shroud 118 as the first bend 158 of the elongated member 152 .

[0063] In certain embodiments, the sliding retainer 190 may have a cross-sectional shape configured to mate with the curved slot 128 at the second end 174 of the turbine shroud 118. However, a mating configuration is not required in all cases, as long as the sliding retainer 190 properly positions itself relative to the curved slot 128, positions the elongated member 152 relative to the curved slot 128, and / or ensures a secure grip of the turbine shroud 118. (See, e.g., Fig. 13C , wherein the sliding retainer 190 does not have a cross-section that matches the curved slot 128 at the second end 174 of the turbine shroud 118).

[0064] refer to FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B The sliding retainer 190 may also optionally include a variety of locating features to position the sliding retainer 190 relative to the curved slot 128, position the elongated member 152 relative to the curved slot 128, and / or ensure a secure grip of the turbine shroud 118. In certain embodiments, for example, the second side 202 of the sliding retainer 190 may also optionally include an inclined surface 206 ( Fig. 9 ). The inclined surface 206 may help guide the sliding retainer 190 into the curved slot 128. The inclined surface 206 may also position the first side 200 of the sliding retainer 190 against the inner surface 204 of the curved slot 128, thereby also positioning the slender member 152 in a desired position in the curved slot 128, that is, in a desired position for securely grasping the turbine shroud 118. In certain embodiments, the angle γ of the inclined surface 206 relative to the slender member 152 may be, for example, in the range of 15° to 45°. In another embodiment, the angle γ of the inclined surface 206 relative to the slender member 152 may be, for example, about 30°. For another example, referring to Figure 8B, the sliding retainer 190 may optionally include an extension 208 from the second side 202, which is configured to position the sliding retainer 190 within the curved slot, for example by engaging the inner surface of the curved slot 128 opposite the inner surface 204. More specifically, the extension 208 may position the first side 200 of the sliding retainer 190 against the inner surface 204 of the curved slot 128, thereby also positioning the slender member 152 in a desired position in the curved slot 128, that is, in a desired position for securely grasping the turbine shroud 118 in a manipulated position. The extension 208 may also optionally include an additional protrusion 244 to abut the second end 174 of the turbine shroud 118. Although certain examples of shapes and positioning structures of the sliding retainer 190 have been described herein (e.g., in FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B ), but it is emphasized that the sliding retainer 190 can have a variety of other structures and / or shapes depending on the shape of the curved slot 128 (e.g., its cross-sectional shape), which may depend on the connecting member 126 ( Figure 4 ) in various forms.

[0065] The operating system 150 also includes a locking member 220 coupled to the sliding retainer 190. The locking member 220 is Figure 6 and Fig. 9 is shown in, and FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C An enlarged cross-sectional view of a locking member 220 on a sliding retainer 190 is shown. The locking member 220 is coupled to the sliding retainer 190 and can be used as shown in FIG. Fig. 10A The first locking position shown is similar to Fig. 10B The locking member 190 is selectively movable between the unlocked positions shown in FIG. 1 , in which the locking member holds the slide retainer 190 in the operating position ( Figure 6 and Fig. 9 ), in which unlocked position, the slide retainer 190 can slide freely on the elongated member 152 (see FIG. 10B to FIG. 10C ). Fig. 10C The lock 220 is shown in an optional second locked position with the sliding retainer 190 in a retracted (and stored) position, wherein the sliding retainer 190 is retracted from the curved slot 128 of the turbine shroud 118 and locked in the stored position.

[0066] The locking member 220 may include any mechanism capable of selectively locking the sliding retainer 190 from moving along the slender member 152 in a safe manner. The locking member 220 can be coupled to the sliding retainer 190 in any manner (e.g., welding, threaded fasteners, etc.). In certain embodiments, the locking member 220 may include an element capable of selectively positioning the sliding retainer 190 relative to the slender member 152, such as a threaded element (e.g., a screw or bolt), a ratchet system, a cotter pin, or other member. In certain embodiments, the locking member 220 includes a member configured to extend through a first opening 222 in the slender member 152 and a second opening 224 in the body 192 of the sliding retainer 190. In certain embodiments, as Figure 5 , Figure 6 and FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C As shown, the locking member 220 may include a Fig. 10A The first locking position and Fig. 10B The pin 230 selectively moves between a first unlocked position in which the pin 230 extends through the first opening 222 in the elongated member 152 and holds the slide retainer 190 in the manipulated position ( Figure 6 ), in which unlocked position, the pin 230 is retracted (moved out) from the first opening 222 in the slender member 152 and allows the sliding retainer 190 to slide freely on the slender member 152.

[0067] In other embodiments, the lock 220 (and more specifically the pin 230) may include a spring loaded pin system 232 coupled to the sliding retainer 190. In this case, as shown in FIG. Fig. 10B As shown, the plunger 234 of the spring-loaded pin system 232 can be moved to retract its pin 236 from the first opening 222 in the elongated member 152 to overcome the bias of its spring 238, thereby allowing the sliding retainer 190 to slide freely on the elongated member 152. Alternatively, as shown Fig. 10A , the plunger 234 of the spring-loaded pin system 232 can be released to allow the pin 236 of the spring-loaded pin system 232 to be pushed into the first opening 222 in the slender member 152 by the bias of the spring 238, thereby preventing the sliding retainer 190 from slidingly moving along the slender member 152 and maintaining the sliding retainer 190 in the operating position against the second end 174 of the turbine shroud 118. The spring-loaded pin system 232 can be any now known or later developed spring-loaded pin, such as a spring-loaded pin available from McMaster-Carr Company of Elmhurst, IL. Regardless of the form of the locking member 220, as will be further described, the openings 222 and 224 are positioned so that the sliding retainer 190 is in the operating position ( Figure 6) to hold the turbine shroud 118 from moving relative to the elongated member 152.

[0068] Although in most of the drawings ( Fig. 8A ), the opening 224 in the sliding retainer 190 is shown on one side of the fork member 210, but as shown Figure 8B As shown, the sliding retainer 190 may use only a single member to provide the opening 224 .

[0069] In certain embodiments, when not in Figure 6 , Fig. 9 and Fig. 10A , the sliding retainer 190 is free to slide on the upper portion 162 of the elongated member 152. In this case, the sliding retainer 190 can be manually retained by the user at a desired position on the elongated member 152. In other embodiments, the elongated member 152 may include a third opening 246 for locking the sliding retainer 190 in a second locked, retracted and stored position (hereinafter referred to as the "stored position"). Fig. 10C The pins 230, 236 are shown in a locked position in the third opening 246 with the sliding retainer 190 in the storage position. In the storage position, the sliding retainer 190 is moved upwardly along the upper portion 162 of the elongated member 152 away from the curved slot 128 of the turbine shroud 118 and locked in place. In this optional embodiment, the elongated member 152 may include a third opening 246 therethrough that is sufficiently spaced from the first opening 222 so that when the pins 230, 236 extend from the locking member 220 into the third opening 246, the sliding retainer 190 is positioned to be completely removed from the turbine shroud 118 and its curved slot 128. Fig. 10C In the embodiment of the present invention, the pins 230, 236 are positioned in an opening 246 in the elongated member 152 that is spaced apart from the first opening 222, wherein the sliding retainer 190 is in the storage position. Likewise, in the absence of the third opening 246, the sliding retainer 190 can slide freely on the elongated member 152, wherein the pins 230, 236 are either maintained in the retracted position or moved along the surface of the elongated member 152.

[0070] In certain embodiments, the body 192 of the sliding retainer 190 may alone have a sufficiently tight mating arrangement with the curved slot 128 of the turbine shroud 118 in the operating position, such as, for example Figure 6 , to securely hold (grasp) the second end 174 of the turbine shroud 118 and hold it in the manipulated position on the elongated member 152. Here, the locking member 220 also helps to hold the sliding retainer 190 in the manipulated position. In other embodiments, such as FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B and Fig. 9As shown, the body 192 of the sliding retainer 190 may have a first portion 240 and a second portion 242, the first portion having a shape and size configured to be slidably engaged in the curved slot 128, the second portion being larger than the first portion 240 and configured to abut the second end 174 of the turbine shroud 118 to selectively retain the second end 174 of the turbine shroud 118 in the operating position on the elongated member 152. Here, the locking member 220 retains the sliding retainer 190 in the operating position. The first portion 240 may have any cross-sectional shape configured to fit into the curved slot 128 within the second end 174 of the turbine shroud 118, such as a rectangular, T-shaped, cross-shaped, etc. In this regard, the first portion 240 does not need to have the same cross-sectional shape as the curved slot 128, but may be advantageous for proper alignment. The second portion 242 may have any shape capable of preventing the sliding retainer 190 from further entering the curved slot 128 adjacent to the second end 174. In the non-limiting example shown, the second portion 242 includes a protrusion 244 adjacent to the second end 174. Fig. 8A As shown, the protrusion 244 can extend from the sides 201, 203 of the body 192 (parallel to the sides 200, 202 of the body 192), or as shown in FIG. Fig. 9 As shown, the protrusion 244 may extend from the side 200, 202 of the body 192, or as shown in FIG. 8C, the protrusion 244 may protrude from all four side 200, 201, 202, 203 of the body 192. The anti-slip retainer 190 of the second portion 242 is formed by Figure 6 and Fig. 9 Any arrangement of the desired steering position shown and further into the curved slot 128 is possible.

[0071] refer to Figure 5 and Figure 6, the manipulation system 150 may also include a handle 250 coupled to the second end 156 of the elongated member 152. The handle 250 may take any form that can be grasped by a user and / or a lifting device (such as a crane hook, a forklift, a robotic arm, etc.). In the non-limiting example shown, the handle 250 may include a pair of opposing strip handles 252, 254 for grasping by hand and a lifting element 256 (e.g., a ring or other structure) to be coupled to a desired lifting device (e.g., a bridge crane). In some cases, the turbine shroud 118 has a sufficiently low weight that a human user can safely manipulate the turbine shroud 118 with the manipulation system 150 attached thereto, for example, less than 22 kilograms (50 pounds). In this case, the user can use the strip handles 252, 254 to manipulate the turbine shroud 118. As used herein, "manipulation" means any movement, such as lifting, turning, rotating, linear movement, etc. In other cases, the turbine shroud 118 may have a weight, such as greater than 22 kg (50 lbs), where a lifting device is desirable or necessary. In this case, the lifting device may be coupled to the lifting element 256 in any manner to manipulate the turbine shroud 118, such as a hook-and-loop, a robotic grab arm, and many other forms.

[0072] The handle 250 may be coupled to the elongated member 152 in any manner that allows for safe and secure movement, such as threaded fasteners, welding, integrally formed with the elongated member 152, etc. If desired, the handle 250 may be made removable so that different handles 250 may be used with a given elongated member 152. In addition, different handles 250 may be used with different turbine shrouds 118. For example, the handling system 150 may be provided with a handle 250 that does not have lifting bars 252, 254, wherein the handling system 150 is configured for use with a heavier turbine shroud 118 that always requires a lifting device. In this case, the handling system 150 may be provided with a handle 250 that indicates whether a person or lifting device is required to prevent, for example, accidental handling of a turbine shroud 118 that is too heavy for a human user. In addition, the handling system 150 may be provided with a handle 250 that requires the use of a specific type of lifting device (such as an overhead crane) to prevent accidental use of an incorrect lifting device (such as a forklift).

[0073] refer to Figure 6 , Fig.11 and Fig.12 , the operation of the manipulation system 150 to grasp the turbine shroud 118 having the curved slot 128 will now be described.

[0074] Fig.11The manipulation system 150 is shown initially positioned on the turbine shroud 118 to be lifted using the manipulation system 150. As is understood in the art, the turbine shroud 118 is often located in a difficult to reach location, such as at the turbine 106 ( Figure 3 ) of the housing 116 ( Figure 4 ) or as Fig.11 As shown, the handling system 150 is located within a recess 260 of a close fitting shipping container 262. Advantageously, the handling system 150 need not access all of the turbine shroud 118, but only the end to be used (such as the second end 174). In this way, the handling system 150 can be easily coupled to the turbine shroud 118 in an ergonomic and safe manner, even when the shroud is in a difficult to reach position.

[0075] Fig.12 The elongated member 152 is shown positioned in the curved slot 128 of the turbine shroud 118. As noted, the elongated member 152 includes a first end 154, a second end 156, and a first bend 158 between the first end 154 and the second end 156. In addition, a base retaining member 170 extends from the first (lower) end 154 of the elongated member 152 for engaging and retaining a first end 172 of the turbine shroud 118 on the elongated member 152. As noted, the base retaining member 170 has a length L2 (extending from the lower portion 160 of the elongated member 152) that is sized to allow the base retaining member 170 to move through the curved slot 128 without hindrance. That is, the base retaining member 170 has a length L2 that is sized to ensure that it can move through the curved slot 128, i.e., the length L2 is less than the width W1 of the curved slot 128. The shape of the base retaining member 170 can also be configured to ensure unimpeded movement through the curved slot 128. During positioning, as shown in FIG. Fig.12 As shown, the first bend 158 also allows the elongated member 152 to move through the curved slot 128. During positioning, as shown in FIG. Fig.11 and Fig.12 As shown, the slide retainer 190 slides upward along the elongated member 152 away from the turbine shroud 118. The slide retainer 190 can be manually held out of the way, or it can be locked in a storage position, such as Fig. 10C shown.

[0076] Figure 6 The steering system 150 is shown after further movement (positioning) to the steering position. During the transition to the steering position, the elongated member 152 is moved (clockwise and to the right, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 and Fig.12124) to move the first bend 158 relative to the inner surface 204 of the curved slot 128 of the turbine shroud 118. More specifically, the first bend 158 in the elongated member 152 is configured to engage the inner surface 204 of the curved slot 128 and position the base retaining member 170 to engage and retain the first end 172 of the turbine shroud 118 on the elongated member 152. When the first bend 158 contacts the inner surface 204, the base retaining member 170 also moves to engage below the first end 172 of the turbine shroud 118. When the base retaining member 170 is engaged with the first end 172 of the turbine shroud 118, any vertical movement of the manipulation system 150 will cause the turbine shroud 118 to be lifted.

[0077] Various aspects of the elongated member 152 are configured to ensure proper movement through the curved slot 128 and positioning in the operating position in a manner such that the base retaining member 170 engages and retains the first end 172 of the turbine shroud 118. For example, the length L1 of the lower portion 160 of the elongated member 152 is FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B ) and the angle β in the first bend 158 in the elongated member 152 is set to ensure that when the elongated member 152 is moved to the manipulated position, the base retaining member 170 engages the first end 172, such as Figure 6 In addition, the length L2 of the base retaining member 170 and / or the size and / or shape of the spacing member 180 are set to ensure that when the slender member 152 is moved to the operating position, the base retaining member 170 engages the first end 172, such as Figure 6 The spacing member 180 may also act as a wear surface to prevent damage to the elongated member 152 or the base retaining member 170. As will be further described, the length L3 of the elongated member 152 between the first bend 158 and the first opening 222 determines the locking position for the sliding retainer 190 and may be sized to ensure that the elongated member 152 is securely fastened to the turbine shroud 118 during use.

[0078] If necessary, during positioning and movement to the maneuvering position, the turbine shroud 118 and / or the maneuvering system 150 may be tilted to allow the base retaining member 170 to pass through the curved slot 128 and past the first end 172 of the turbine shroud 118 . Fig.11 and Fig.12 In the example shown, the turbine shroud 118 is tilted (see arrow A) from having the first end 172 lying flat on the bottom 264 of the transport container 262. In any event, during positioning, the base retaining member 170 passes through the curved slot 128 and past the first end 172 thereof.

[0079] Figure 6Also shown is sliding the slide retainer 190 along the elongated member 152 and into the curved slot 128 at the second end 174 of the turbine shroud 118 to its operating position on the elongated member 152. As previously described, and as Figure 6 and Fig. 9 As shown, the sliding retainer 190 can be configured to secure the second end 174 to the elongated member 152, for example, by a close fit and / or by abutting the second end 174 of the turbine shroud 118 in the manipulated position. More specifically, the sliding retainer 190 is configured to enter the curved slots 128 and position the elongated members 152 within the curved slots 128 in a spaced-apart manner such that the base retaining member 170 is secured in engagement with the first end 172. In addition, the first side 200 of the sliding retainer 190 engages the inner surface 204 of the curved slots 204 of the corresponding set of turbine shrouds 118 that is the same as the first curved portion 158 of the elongated member.

[0080] Figure 6 , Fig. 9 and Fig. 10A The locked slide retainer 190 is shown in a locked position in which the slide retainer 190 is fixed in a manipulated position relative to the elongated member 152 and the slide retainer 190 captures the turbine shroud 118 and retains it on the elongated member 152. In the locked position, the pins 230, 236 extend through the first opening 222 in the elongated member 152 to secure the slide retainer 190 in the curved slot 128 and secure the second end 174 of the turbine shroud 118 to the elongated member 152. FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B As shown, a length L3 of the elongated member 152 between the first bend 158 and the first opening 222 determines a locking position for the sliding retainer 190 and may be sized to ensure that the elongated member 152 is securely fastened to the turbine shroud 118 during use.

[0081] Once in the maneuvering position, the maneuvering system 150 may be used to ergonomically and securely lift and maneuver the turbine shroud 118 in any manner (e.g., by hand and / or using a lifting device). The maneuvering system 150 allows the turbine shroud 118 to be moved to virtually any desired position, such as, but not limited to: mounted on the turbine 106 ( Figure 3 ), positioned in the recess 260 of the transport container 262 ( Fig.11 , Fig.12 ), moved relative to the machining tool to (re)operate on the turbine shroud 118, or positioned in a variety of alternative positions.

[0082] After use, the locking member 220 can be released to its unlocked position and the sliding retainer 190 can be slid out of the curved slot 128 along the slender member 152 and out of the operating position, for example, as Fig. 10C Once the sliding retainer 190 is moved, the manipulation system 150 no longer fully captures the turbine shroud 118, and the elongated member 152 can be moved to allow the base retaining member 170 to disengage. That is, the elongated member 152 can be moved in a manner similar to that of the base retaining member 170. Fig.11 and Fig.12 The embodiment of the present invention is to move out of the curved slot 128 in the reverse manner as described above.

[0083] It should be understood that, based on the description provided thus far, the handling system 150 can be customized to ensure secure gripping of a large number of different sized and / or shaped turbine shrouds 118. A non-comprehensive list of features of the handling system 150 that can be customized can include: the location of the first opening 222 in the elongated member 152; the length L3 of the elongated member 152 between the first bend 158 and the first opening 222; the length L1 of the lower portion 160 of the elongated member 152 between the first bend 158 and the base retaining member 170; the length L2 of the base retaining member 170; the angle α of the first bend 158 in the elongated member 152; the angle β of the base retaining member 170 relative to the elongated member 152; the angle γ ( FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B ); the size and / or shape of the first portion 240 of the main body 192 of the sliding retainer 190; and / or the size, shape and / or position of the protrusion 244 on the first portion 240 of the main body 192 of the sliding retainer 190.

[0084] The handling system 150 may include multiple customized versions thereof for turbine shrouds 118 of different sizes and / or shapes. Figure 5 and Figure 6 In addition to the implementation plan, FIG. 13A to FIG. 13D , FIG. 14A to FIG. 14D and FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D Multiple sets of handling systems 150A-C are shown with different configurations, each set of handling systems being customized for a particular turbine shroud 118A-C of a given set of shrouds. Each set of turbine shrouds 118A-C has at least one dimension that differs between the sets. FIG. 13A to FIG. 13D , FIG. 14A to FIG. 14D and FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D In the drawings, the figures indicated as "A" respectively show perspective views of the control systems 150A-C; the figures indicated as "B" respectively show cross-sectional views of the control systems 150A-C in a partially installed position; the figures indicated as "C" respectively show cross-sectional views of the control systems 150A-C in an installed operational state; and the figures indicated as "D" respectively show partially transparent perspective views of the control systems 150A-C in an installed operational state.

[0085] The handling system 150A-C can be configured for a first group of turbine shrouds having a first size and at least one second group of turbine shrouds 118A-C having a second size different from the first group. (The turbine shrouds 118A-C in each group include a plurality of identical turbine shrouds 118A, 118B, or 118C.) The different sizes between the turbine shrouds 118A-C can be any size that requires a corresponding change in the corresponding handling system 150A-C, such as, but not limited to, turbine shroud length and / or curvature, and / or the curvature, size, and / or shape of the curved slots 128A-C. Regardless of which group a given turbine shroud 118A-C belongs to, each turbine shroud 118 has a curved slot 128 located therein. A handling system 150A-C as described herein can be provided for each of the first group and at least one second group of turbine shrouds 118A-C. Any number of groups of turbine shrouds 118 are possible.

[0086] A plurality of elongated members 152A-C may be provided. The elongated members 152A-C include respective first ends 154A-C and second ends 156A-C and first bends 158A-C therein. Each elongated member 152A-C may have respective first bends 158A-C of different lengths (e.g., lengths L1A-C and / or L3A-C) and / or different angles αA-C compared to other elongated members in the plurality of elongated members 152A-C. The different lengths and angles accommodate selected turbine shrouds 118A-C in a plurality of different turbine shrouds. The lengths L2A-C of the base retaining members 170A-C may also have custom lengths, and the angles βA-C may also be customizable relative to the elongated members 152. The elongated members 150A-C and the first bends 158A-C are configured to be positioned in the curved slots 128A-C of the respective turbine shrouds 118A-C of the respective sets of turbine shrouds. More specifically, the first bends 158A-C in the elongated members 152A-C are configured to engage the inner surfaces 204A-C of the curved slots 128A-C of the respective set of turbine shrouds 118A-C, and the base retaining members 170A-C are positioned to engage and retain the first ends 172A-C of the turbine shrouds 118A-C of the respective set of shrouds on the elongated members. The base retaining members 170A-C extend from the first ends 154A-C of the elongated members 152A-C to engage and retain the first ends 172A-C of the respective set of turbine shrouds 118A-C on the elongated members.

[0087] refer to FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B and FIG. 13A to FIG. 15DThe slide retainer 190 may include a plurality of slide retainers 190A-C, each slide retainer 190A-C having at least one of a different shape and a different size than other slide retainers in the plurality of slide retainers to accommodate the curved slots 128A-C of the turbine shrouds 118A-C of a selected turbine shroud of the plurality of different turbine shrouds. FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B As depicted, the slide retainers 190A-C each include a body 192 having an opening 194 configured to slidingly receive a corresponding elongated member 152A-C for a corresponding set of turbine shrouds 118. As described herein, the bodies 192 of the slide retainers 190A-C are configured to slidingly engage in the curved slots 128A-C of the corresponding set of turbine shrouds 118A-C and selectively retain the second ends 172A-C of the corresponding set of turbine shrouds 118A-C in a manipulated position on the corresponding elongated members 152A-C. In one example, the body 192 of the sliding retainer 190A-C may have a first portion 240 shaped and sized to be slidingly engaged in the curved slots 128A-C of the corresponding set of turbine shrouds 118A-C and a second portion 242 that is larger (in cross-section) than the first portion 240 and configured to abut the second ends 174A-C of the corresponding set of turbine shrouds 118A-C to selectively retain the second ends 174A-C of the corresponding set of turbine shrouds 118A-C in a manipulated position on the elongated members 152A-C. Note that the sliding retainer 190B is shown as having a cross-section that mates with the curved slots 128B, but the sliding retainer 190A is shown as not having a cross-section that fully mates with the curved slots 128A. Similarly, FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D The slide retainer 190C in FIG. 1 includes an extension 208 (see also Figure 8B ), while other sliding retainers 190A-B do not include extensions.

[0088] refer to FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B , Fig. 9 , FIG. 10A to FIG. 10C , FIG. 13A to FIG. 13D , FIG. 14A to FIG. 14B D and FIG. 15A to FIG. 15D, the locking member 220A-C is coupled to the slide retainer 190A-C and is selectively movable between a locked position, in which the locking member 220A-C retains the slide retainer 190A-C in the manipulated position, and an unlocked position, in which the slide retainer 190A-C is free to slide on the elongated member 152A-C. The slide retainer 190A-C includes a first end 196, a second end 198, a first side 200, and a second side 202. The first side 200 of the slide retainer 190A-C may extend further from the first end 196 of the slide retainer 190A-C than the second side 202 of the slide retainer. The first side 200 of the slide retainer 190A-C engages the inner surface 204A-C of the curved slot 128A-C of the corresponding set of turbine shrouds 118A-C that is the same as the first curved portion 158A-C of the elongated member 152A-C. The locks 220A-C include pins 230, 236 that are selectively movable between a locked position, in which the pins 230, 236 extend through the first openings 222A-C in the elongated members 152A-C and retain the slide retainers 190A-C in the manipulated position, and an unlocked position, in which the pins 230, 236 are retracted from the first openings 222A-C in the elongated members 152A-C and allow the slide retainers 190A-C to slide freely on the respective elongated members 152A-C. In certain embodiments, such as Fig. 10C , Fig. 13B , Fig. 14B and Fig. 15B As shown, in the unlocked position, the pins 230, 236 are positioned in second openings 246A-C in the elongated member 152 that are spaced apart from the first openings 222A-C. In certain embodiments, the pins may include spring-loaded pins 236 coupled to the sliding retainers 190A-C.

[0089] As previously described, the handles 250A-C may also vary depending on the group of turbine shrouds 118A-C, for example, the turbine shroud 118B may be small enough to allow the lifting element 256 ( Figure 5 ) is not required.

[0090] Unless otherwise specified herein, the manipulation system 150 and its components may be made of any metal or metal alloy having sufficient strength for its stated purpose. The manipulation system 150 and its components may be made using any now known or later developed manufacturing technique, such as machine-based manufacturing (such as cutting, welding, bending, etc.) and / or additive manufacturing.

[0091] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide various technical and commercial advantages, examples of which are discussed herein. The handling system is capable of safely grabbing and lifting a turbine shroud. The handling system is customizable for any variety of turbine shrouds of different sizes and addresses both factory and field handling requirements. The system can be ergonomically and safely attached despite limited access to the turbine shroud, for example, due to a tight fit in a shipping container. The system also reduces cycle time in the field by allowing the turbine shroud to be installed in the factory, thereby reducing field handling and potential damage to capital components.

[0092] As used throughout the specification and claims, approximate language may be used to modify any quantitative representation that may be permissibly varied without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is associated. Thus, values ​​modified by one or more terms, such as "about," "approximately," and "substantially," are not limited to the precise values ​​specified. In at least some cases, approximate language may correspond to the precision of the instrument used to measure the value. Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and / or interchanged; unless the context or language indicates otherwise, these ranges are identified and include all subranges contained therein. "Approximately" applied to a particular value of a range applies to both end values ​​and may indicate + / -10% of the value unless otherwise dependent on the precision of the instrument measuring the value.

[0093] The corresponding structures, materials, actions and equivalents of all means or steps plus function elements in the following claims are intended to include any structure, material or action for performing functions in conjunction with other claimed elements specifically claimed. A description of the present disclosure has been given for the purpose of illustration and description, but it is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the present disclosure to the disclosed form. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and essence of the present disclosure. The embodiments are selected and described in order to best explain the principles of the present disclosure and its practical application, and to enable other persons of ordinary skill in the art to understand the present disclosure so that it is suitable for various modifications of further intended specific uses.

Claims

1. A handling system for a turbine shroud having a slot therein, the handling system comprising: an elongated member including a first end and a second end, the elongated member including a first bend therein, the elongated member being configured to be positioned in the slot of the turbine shroud; a base retaining member extending from the first end of the elongated member to engage and retain a first end portion of the turbine shroud on the elongated member; a sliding retainer including a body having an opening configured to slidingly receive the elongated member, the body of the sliding retainer configured to slidingly engage in the slot and selectively retain the second end of the turbine shroud in a manipulated position on the elongated member; and A locking member is coupled to the sliding retainer and is selectively movable between a locked position in which the locking member retains the sliding retainer in the manipulated position and an unlocked position in which the sliding retainer is free to slide on the elongated member.

2. The operating system according to claim 1, wherein: The locking member includes a pin that is selectively movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the pin extends through a first opening in the elongated member and retains the sliding retainer in the manipulated position, and the unlocked position wherein the pin is retracted from the first opening in the elongated member and allows the sliding retainer to slide freely on the elongated member.

3. The operating system according to claim 2, wherein: In the unlocked position, the pin is positioned in a second opening in the elongated member spaced apart from the first opening.

4. The operating system according to claim 2, wherein: The pin comprises a spring loaded pin coupled to the sliding retainer.

5. The operating system according to claim 1, wherein: The first bend in the elongated member is configured to engage an inner surface of the slot and position the base retaining member to engage and retain the first end of the turbine shroud on the elongated member.

6. The operating system according to claim 5, wherein: The sliding retainer includes a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side, and wherein the first side of the sliding retainer extends farther from the first end of the sliding retainer than the second side of the sliding retainer, and wherein the first side of the sliding retainer engages the same inner surface of the slot of the turbine shroud as the first bend of the slender member.

7. The operating system according to claim 6, wherein: The second side of the slide retainer includes an inclined surface extending less than 90° from the elongated member.

8. The operating system according to claim 1, wherein: The body of the sliding retainer has a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is shaped and sized to be slidably engaged in the narrow slot, and the second portion is larger than the first portion and is constructed to abut the second end of the turbine shroud to selectively retain the second end of the turbine shroud in the operating position on the slender member.

9. The manipulation system of claim 1 further comprising a spacing member coupled to the elongated member adjacent the base retaining member.

10. The manipulation system of claim 1, further comprising a handle coupled to the second end of the elongated member.

11. The operating system according to claim 1, wherein: The base retaining member extending from the first end of the elongated member includes a second bend in the elongated member.

12. The operating system according to claim 1, wherein: The elongated member comprises a plurality of elongated members, each elongated member having a respective first bend of a different length and a different angle than other elongated members of the plurality of elongated members to accommodate a selected turbine shroud of a plurality of different turbine shrouds, and Wherein the sliding retainer comprises a plurality of sliding retainers, each sliding retainer having at least one of a different shape and a different size compared to other sliding retainers in the plurality of sliding retainers to accommodate the narrow slot of the turbine shroud of a selected turbine shroud among the plurality of different turbine shrouds.

13. The operating system according to claim 1, wherein: The slot is a curved slot.

14. A handling system for a first set of turbine shrouds having a first size and at least a second set of turbine shrouds having a second size different from the first set, both sets of turbine shrouds having curved slots therein, the handling system comprising, for each of the first set and the second set: an elongated member including a first end and a second end, the elongated member including a first bend therein, the elongated member and the first bend being configured to be positioned in a corresponding set of the curved slots of the turbine shroud; a base retaining member extending from the first end of the elongated member to engage and retain the first ends of the respective sets of the turbine shrouds on the elongated member; a sliding retainer including a body having an opening configured to slidingly receive the elongated member for the respective set of turbine shrouds, the body of the sliding retainer configured to slidingly engage the curved slots of the respective set of turbine shrouds and selectively retain the second end of the respective set of turbine shrouds in a manipulated position on the elongated member; and A locking member is coupled to the sliding retainer and is selectively movable between a locked position in which the locking member retains the sliding retainer in the manipulated position and an unlocked position in which the sliding retainer is free to slide on the elongated member.

15. The manipulation system according to claim 14, wherein: The locking member includes a pin that is selectively movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, wherein the pin extends through a first opening in the elongated member and retains the sliding retainer in the manipulated position, and the unlocked position wherein the pin is retracted from the first opening in the elongated member and allows the sliding retainer to slide freely on the elongated member.

16. The manipulation system according to claim 15, wherein: In the unlocked position, the pin is positioned in a second opening in the elongated member spaced apart from the first opening.

17. The manipulation system according to claim 15, wherein: The pin comprises a spring loaded pin coupled to the sliding retainer.

18. The manipulation system according to claim 14, wherein: The first bend in the elongated member is configured to engage an inner surface of the curved slot of the corresponding set of turbine shrouds and position the base retaining member to engage and retain the first end of the corresponding set of turbine shrouds on the elongated member.

19. The manipulation system according to claim 18, wherein: The sliding retainer includes a first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side, and wherein the first side of the sliding retainer extends farther from the first end of the sliding retainer than the second side of the sliding retainer, and wherein the first side of the sliding retainer engages the same inner surface of the curved slot of the turbine shroud as the first curved portion of the slender member.

20. The manipulation system of claim 14, wherein: The body of the sliding retainer has a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion is shaped and sized to be slidably engaged in the curved slot of the turbine shroud in the corresponding group of turbine shrouds, and the second portion is larger than the first portion and is constructed to abut the second end of the turbine shroud in the corresponding group to selectively retain the second end of the turbine shroud in the corresponding group of turbine shrouds in the operating position on the slender member.

21. A method of grasping a turbine shroud having a curved slot therein, the method comprising: positioning an elongated member in the curved slot of the turbine shroud, the elongated member comprising a first end, a second end, a first bend between the first end and the second end, and a base retaining member extending from the first end and engaging and retaining a first end portion of the turbine shroud on the elongated member; sliding a sliding retainer along the elongated member and into the curved slot at the second end of the turbine shroud to an operating position on the elongated member, the sliding retainer being configured to abut the second end of the turbine shroud in the operating position; as well as The sliding retainer is locked in a locked position in which the sliding retainer is fixed in the manipulated position relative to the elongated member and the sliding retainer captures the turbine shroud and retains the turbine shroud on the elongated member.

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