O-ring installation template and method

Abstract

An apparatus for inserting a seal member into a seal groove includes a tray. The tray includes a retention groove formed in a front surface thereof for receiving the seal member. The retention groove is sized and shaped to correspond to the seal groove. A method for installing the seal member into the seal groove includes aligning the retention groove with the seal groove and applying pressure to a back surface of the tray, thereby deforming the tray and inserting the seal member into the seal groove.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to an apparatus and method for installing a seal member, such as an O-ring, in a seal groove formed in a surface of a component. [Background technology]

[0002] In some equipment, such as equipment used in the manufacture of electronic chips, a face of one component must sealingly engage with a face of another component. Typically, a sealing member, such as an O-ring, installed in a seal groove formed in the face of one of the components may be several feet long and may follow a complex path, such as a spiral path. In some applications, the O-ring is thin and therefore delicate. Installing a long, thin O-ring uniformly in a seal groove is problematic because the O-ring tends to be stretched in some places along the groove and compressed in other places along the groove. Such non-uniformity can cause the O-ring to be thin in some places along the groove and thick or twisted in other places along the seal groove. As a result, the O-ring may not be able to provide an effective and reliable seal when the two components are assembled. Installation of long, thin O-rings is typically done by hand, which is time consuming and, as discussed above, can produce inconsistent results with respect to uniformity.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for improved tools and processes that facilitate fast, accurate, uniform and consistent installation of seal members into seal grooves. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure generally relates to an apparatus and method for installing a seal member into a seal groove on a face of a component. In one embodiment, a carrier is configured to facilitate transfer of a seal member to a seal groove formed in a chamber part. The carrier includes a tray including a front surface and a back surface. A retention groove is formed in the front surface and configured to receive the seal member. The retention groove includes a first sidewall separated from a second sidewall, the first and second sidewalls extending from the front surface to a floor. Alignment features are formed on or in the tray. The tray is deformable in response to pressure applied to the back surface such that the seal member is forced out of the retention groove.

[0005] In another embodiment, a method for installing a seal member in a seal groove formed in a face of a component includes positioning a front surface of a carrier against the face of the component, the carrier including a retention groove formed in the front surface, the seal member being positioned within the retention groove, the method includes aligning the retention groove with the seal groove and applying pressure to a back surface of the carrier, thereby deforming the carrier and moving at least a portion of the seal member into the seal groove.

[0006] In another embodiment, a method of installing a seal member in a seal groove formed in a face of a component includes positioning a front surface of a carrier against the face of the component. The carrier includes a retention groove formed in the front surface, and the seal member is positioned within the retention groove. The carrier further includes a plurality of channels formed in the front surface, the plurality of channels intersecting the retention groove. The method includes aligning the retention groove with the seal groove and applying pressure to a back surface of the carrier opposite each of the plurality of channels, thereby deforming the carrier and moving portions of the seal member into the seal groove. The method further includes removing the carrier from the face of the component.

[0007] So that the above-mentioned features of the present disclosure can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the present disclosure briefly summarized above can be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be noted, however, that the accompanying drawings illustrate only exemplary embodiments and therefore should not be considered as limiting the scope of the present disclosure, since it is capable of embracing other equally effective embodiments. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of a component in which a seal member is installed. [Figure 1B] 1B is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional profile of a groove of the component of FIG. 1A. [Figure 1C] 1B is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional profile of a groove of the component of FIG. 1A. [Figure 1D] 1B is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional profile of a groove of the component of FIG. 1A. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2 is a schematic top view of a seal member carrier. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2B is a schematic rear view of the carrier of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2C] 2B is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional profile of a groove of the carrier of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2D] 2B is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional profile of a groove of the carrier of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2E] 2B is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional profile of a groove of the carrier of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2F] 2B is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional profile of a groove of the carrier of FIG. 2A. [Figure 3A] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary tool used in practicing the methods of the present disclosure. [Figure 3B] 3B is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional profile of a portion of the tool of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3C] 3B is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional profile of a portion of the tool of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3D]3B is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional profile of a portion of the tool of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4] 1 is an exemplary method of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] 1 is an exemplary method of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 1 is an exemplary method of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 6A-6C are cross-sectional views that illustrate schematic operations in the method of FIGS. 4 and 5. [Figure 8A] 5 is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional view of an operation in the method of FIG. 4. [Figure 8B] 5 is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional view of an operation in the method of FIG. 4. [Figure 8C] 5 is an exemplary schematic cross-sectional view of an operation in the method of FIG. 4. [Figure 9A] 7A-7C are exemplary schematic cross-sectional views of operations in the method of FIGS. 5 and 6. [Figure 9B] 7A-7C are exemplary schematic cross-sectional views of operations in the method of FIGS. 5 and 6. [Figure 9C] 7A-7C are exemplary schematic cross-sectional views of operations in the method of FIGS. 5 and 6. [Figure 9D] 7A-7C are exemplary schematic cross-sectional views of operations in the method of FIGS. 5 and 6. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] For ease of understanding, wherever possible, identical reference numbers have been used to designate identical elements common to the figures. It is contemplated that elements and features of one embodiment may be beneficially incorporated in other embodiments without further description.

[0010] The present disclosure relates to an apparatus and method for installing a seal member in a seal groove on a face of a component. It is contemplated that the seal member may be made of any suitable seal material, such as an elastomer, a thermoplastic, or a metal. It is contemplated that the seal member may take any suitable form, such as an O-ring, an X-ring, a T-seal, a V-seal, a Y-seal, a lip seal, etc.

[0011] FIG. 1A is a schematic front view of a component 100 in which a seal member is installed. Some examples of the component 100 include, but are not limited to, parts of a semiconductor processing chamber, such as a chamber lid, parts of a gas distribution system, or parts of a heat transfer system, such as parts of a cooling circuit. Other examples include equipment associated with fluid distribution and / or heat transfer in other industries, such as machines for manufacturing, food processing, chemical processing, and the like. The face 102 of the component 100 is configured to abut or otherwise mate with another component (not shown). As shown, in some embodiments, the face 102 includes one or more formations 120, 122, 124. Each formation 120, 122, 124 may be in the form of a port, recess, notch, notch, slot, protrusion, or any other structure or irregularity. Although three formations are depicted, it is contemplated that the face 102 may include any number of formations, such as one, two, four, five, or more.

[0012] The face 102 includes a seal groove 110 configured to receive a seal member. The seal groove 110 includes a sidewall 112 and a floor 114. The seal groove 110 is sized and shaped to receive the seal member and provide a seal at a desired location between the component 100 and another component when they are joined together. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the seal groove 110 defines a path only around the periphery of the face 102 of the component 100. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the face 102 of the component 100 includes a second seal groove. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the second seal groove does not intersect with the seal groove 110. As shown, in some embodiments, the seal groove 110 is arranged as a spiral path.

[0013] 1B-1D provide exemplary schematic cross-sectional profiles of the seal groove 110 with the seal member 105 in place after installation. The illustrated examples are not exhaustive and other configurations of the seal groove 110 are contemplated. In FIG. 1B, the seal groove 110 is represented by a rectangular seal groove 130. The rectangular seal groove 130 includes first and second side walls 132, 134 that extend from a floor 136 of the rectangular seal groove 130 to an opening 138 in the face 102 of the component 100. Each of the first and second side walls 132, 134 is parallel to an axis 115 that is perpendicular to the face 102 of the component 100. For example, the first and second side walls 132, 134 extend in a direction up to 8 degrees, up to 6 degrees, up to 4 degrees, or up to 2 degrees from the axis 115. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the depth of the rectangular seal groove 130 from the face 102 of the component 100 to the floor 136 is less than a thickness of the seal member 105 measured parallel to the axis 115 when the seal member 105 is received in the rectangular seal groove 130. In such embodiments, a portion of the seal member 105 protrudes through the opening 138 when installed in the rectangular seal groove 130.

[0014] 1C, the seal groove 110 is represented by a half dovetail seal groove 140. The half dovetail seal groove 140 includes a first sidewall 142 that extends parallel to the axis 115 from a floor 146 of the half dovetail seal groove 140 to an opening 148 in the face 102 of the component 100. For example, the first sidewall 142 extends in a direction up to 8 degrees, up to 6 degrees, up to 4 degrees, or up to 2 degrees from the axis 115. The half dovetail seal groove 140 includes a second sidewall 144 that extends from the floor 146 to the opening 148 in the face 102 of the component 100 at an acute angle 145 with respect to the axis 115. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the depth of the half dovetail seal groove 140 from the face 102 of the component 100 to the floor 146 is less than a thickness of the seal member 105 measured parallel to the axis 115 when the seal member 105 is received in the half dovetail seal groove 140. In such embodiments, a portion of the seal member 105 protrudes through the opening 148 when installed in the half dovetail seal groove 140.

[0015] In FIG. 1D , seal groove 110 is represented by dovetail seal groove 150. Dovetail seal groove 150 includes a first sidewall 152 that extends from a floor 156 of dovetail seal groove 150 to an opening 158 in face 102 of component 100 at an acute angle 153 relative to axis 115. Dovetail seal groove 150 includes a second sidewall 154 that extends from floor 156 to opening 158 in face 102 of component 100 at an acute angle 155 relative to axis 115. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that angle 153 and angle 155 are substantially equal, such as within 5 degrees, within 4 degrees, within 3 degrees, within 2 degrees, or within 1 degree. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that angle 153 and angle 155 are not substantially equal. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the depth of dovetail seal groove 150 from face 102 of component 100 to floor 156 is less than a thickness of seal member 105 measured parallel to axis 115 when seal member 105 is received in dovetail seal groove 150. In such embodiments, a portion of seal member 105 protrudes through opening 158 when installed in dovetail seal groove 150.

[0016] 1B-1D are exemplary, and it is contemplated that seal groove 110 may include any suitable cross-sectional shape different than that illustrated.

[0017] 2A-2B show a carrier 200 used during installation of a seal member in the seal groove 110 of the component 100. FIG. 2A is a schematic top view of the carrier 200, and FIG. 2B is a schematic back view of the carrier 200. The carrier 200 includes a tray 201 including a front surface 202 and a back surface 204. The front surface 202 has a retention groove 210 formed therein including a sidewall 212 and a floor 214. The retention groove 210 is sized and shaped to correspond to the seal groove 110 of the component 100 such that when the front surface 202 of the carrier 200 is placed on the face 102 of the component 100, the retention groove 210 can be aligned to overlie the seal groove 110. In one example, the retention groove 210 represents a path that is substantially a mirror image of the seal groove 110. In embodiments in which face 102 of component 100 includes a second seal groove, it is contemplated that carrier 200 may include a second retention groove formed in front face 202 that is sized and shaped to correspond to the second seal groove.

[0018] 2C-2F provide exemplary schematic cross-sectional profiles of a retention groove 210 that receives a seal member 105. The illustrated examples are not exhaustive and other configurations of the retention groove 210 are contemplated. In FIG. 2C, the retention groove 210 is represented by a rectangular retention groove 230. The rectangular retention groove 230 includes first and second side walls 232, 234 that extend from a floor 236 of the rectangular retention groove 230 to an opening 238 in the front surface 202 of the carrier 200. Each of the first and second side walls 232, 234 is parallel to an axis 215 that is perpendicular to the front surface 202 of the carrier 200. For example, the first and second side walls 232, 234 extend in a direction up to 8 degrees, up to 6 degrees, up to 4 degrees, or up to 2 degrees from the axis 215. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the depth of the rectangular retaining groove 230 from the front surface 202 of the carrier 200 to the floor 236 is greater than the thickness of the seal member 105 measured parallel to the axis 215 when the seal member 105 is received in the rectangular retaining groove 230.

[0019] 2D, the retention groove 210 is represented by a half dovetail retention groove 240. The half dovetail retention groove 240 includes a first sidewall 242 that extends parallel to the axis 215 from a floor 246 of the half dovetail retention groove 240 to an opening 248 in the front face 202 of the carrier 200. For example, the first sidewall 242 extends in a direction up to 8 degrees, up to 6 degrees, up to 4 degrees, or up to 2 degrees from the axis 215. The half dovetail retention groove 240 includes a second sidewall 244 that extends at an acute angle 245 with respect to the axis 215 from the floor 246 to the opening 248 in the front face 202 of the carrier 200. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the depth of the semi-dovetail retaining groove 240 from the front surface 202 of the carrier 200 to the floor 246 is greater than the thickness of the seal member 105 measured parallel to the axis 215 when the seal member 105 is received in the semi-dovetail retaining groove 240.

[0020] In FIG. 2E, the retention groove 210 is represented by a dovetail retention groove 250. The dovetail retention groove 250 includes a first sidewall 252 that extends from a floor 256 of the dovetail retention groove 250 to an opening 258 in the front face 202 of the carrier 200 at an acute angle 253 relative to the axis 215. The dovetail retention groove 250 includes a second sidewall 254 that extends from the floor 256 to an opening 258 in the front face 202 of the carrier 200 at an acute angle 255 relative to the axis 215. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the angles 253 and 255 are substantially equal, such as within 5 degrees, within 4 degrees, within 3 degrees, within 2 degrees, or within 1 degree. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the angles 253 and 255 are not substantially equal. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the depth of the dovetail retaining groove 250 from the front surface 202 of the carrier 200 to the floor 256 is greater than the thickness of the seal member 105 measured parallel to the axis 215 when the seal member 105 is received in the dovetail retaining groove 250.

[0021] In FIG. 2F, the retention groove 210 is represented by a lobed retention groove 260. The lobed retention groove 260 includes first and second sidewalls 262, 263 that extend from a floor 264 of the lobed retention groove 260 to an opening 268 in the front surface 202 of the carrier 200. It is contemplated that the first sidewall 262 may extend substantially parallel to the axis 215 (as described in other embodiments above), at an acute angle to the axis 215, or may curve from the floor toward the opening 258. As shown, the first sidewall 262 includes a first lobe 266 at the opening 268. The first lobe 266 projects into the lobed retention groove 260. It is contemplated that second sidewall 263 may extend substantially parallel to axis 215 (as described in other embodiments above), at an acute angle to axis 215, or may curve from floor 264 toward opening 268. As shown, second sidewall 263 includes a second lobe 267 at opening 268. Second lobe 267 projects into lobed retention groove 260. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, either first lobe 266 or second lobe 267 may be omitted. Opening 268 has a width between floor 264 and first lobe 266 and / or between floor 264 and second lobe 267 that is less than a width of lobed retention groove 260. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the depth of the lobed retention groove 260 from the front surface 202 of the carrier 200 to the floor 264 is greater than the thickness of the seal member 105 measured parallel to the axis 215 when the seal member 105 is received in the lobed retention groove 260.

[0022] The depictions of the retaining groove 210 in FIGS. 2C-2F are exemplary. It is contemplated that the retaining groove 210 may include any suitable cross-sectional shape different than that depicted. Additionally, it is contemplated that the retaining groove 210 may include any combination of features of one or more of the rectangular retaining groove 230, the half dovetail retaining groove 240, the dovetail retaining groove 250, and the lobed retaining groove 260. In one example, one or more side walls 232, 234 of the rectangular retaining groove 230 may include a portion that extends at an acute angle relative to the axis 215. In another example, one or more side walls 242, 244, 252, 254 of the half dovetail retaining groove 240 or the dovetail retaining groove 250 may include lobes at the openings 248, 258, respectively.

[0023] 2A-2B , in some embodiments, the carrier 200 includes one or more channels 270 formed in the front face 202 and intersecting the retention groove 210. Each channel 270 includes a wall 272 and a floor 274. As shown, each channel 270 is wider than the retention groove 210. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the depth of each channel 270 from the front face 202 to the floor 274 is greater than the depth of the retention groove 210 from the front face 202 to the floor 214. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the depth of each channel 270 from the front face 202 to the floor 274 is less than the depth of the retention groove 210 from the front face 202 to the floor 214. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the depth of each channel 270 from the front face 202 to the floor 274 is equal to the depth of the retention groove 210 from the front face 202 to the floor 214.

[0024] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the one or more channels 270 extend radially from an inner end 276 proximal to the center 206 of the carrier 200 to an outer end 278 proximal to the edge 208 of the carrier 200. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the one or more channels 270 are not radially oriented. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the one or more channels 270 do not extend to a position proximal to the edge 208 of the carrier 200.

[0025] In the illustrated example, carrier 200 includes primary radial channels 280, secondary radial channels 284, and tertiary radial channels 288. The illustrated example includes four primary radial channels 280 and four secondary radial channels 284, with each secondary radial channel 284 located between a corresponding pair of primary radial channels 280. An inner end 286 of each secondary radial channel 284 is located farther from center 206 of carrier 200 than an inner end 282 of each corresponding primary radial channel 280. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, secondary radial channels 284 may be omitted.

[0026] It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the primary radial channels 280 may extend from a location proximal to the edge 208 of the carrier 200 on one side of the carrier 200 and terminate proximal to the edge 208 of the carrier 200 on the other side of the carrier 200. In such embodiments, it is contemplated that the primary radial channels 280 may extend through the center 206 of the carrier 200. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, at least one primary radial channel 280 intersects with at least one other primary radial channel 280. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, at least one primary radial channel 280 does not intersect with any other primary radial channel 280.

[0027] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that at least one secondary radial channel 284 intersects with at least one primary radial channel 280. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that at least one secondary radial channel 284 does not intersect with any primary radial channel 280. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that two or more secondary radial channels 284 may be located between two corresponding primary radial channels 280. In some of such embodiments, it is contemplated that at least one secondary radial channel 284 intersects with at least one other secondary radial channel 284. Additionally or alternatively, it is contemplated that at least one secondary radial channel 284 does not intersect with any other secondary radial channel 284.

[0028] The depicted example includes eight tertiary radial channels 288, with each tertiary radial channel 288 located between a corresponding primary radial channel 280 and a corresponding secondary radial channel 284. An inner end 290 of each tertiary radial channel 288 is located farther from the center 206 of the carrier 200 than an inner end 286 of each corresponding secondary radial channel 284. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the tertiary radial channels 288 may be omitted.

[0029] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that at least one tertiary radial channel 288 intersects with at least one primary radial channel 280. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that at least one tertiary radial channel 288 does not intersect with any primary radial channel 280. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that at least one tertiary radial channel 288 intersects with at least one secondary radial channel 284. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that at least one tertiary radial channel 288 does not intersect with any secondary radial channel 284.

[0030] It is contemplated that in some embodiments, two or more tertiary radial channels 288 may be located between corresponding primary radial channels 280 and / or secondary radial channels 284. In some of such embodiments, it is contemplated that at least one tertiary radial channel 288 intersects with at least one other tertiary radial channel 288. Additionally or alternatively, it is contemplated that at least one tertiary radial channel 288 does not intersect with any other tertiary radial channel 288.

[0031] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the carrier 200 may include one or more alignment features to aid in positioning the carrier 200 on the surface 102 of the component 100 such that the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200 may align with the seal groove 110 of the component 100. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, the carrier 200 includes one or more alignment features 220, 222, and 224. Each alignment feature 220, 222, 224 may be in the form of a hole, recess, cutout, notch, slot, protrusion, or any other structure or irregularity. For example, an edge of the carrier 200 may include a recess configured to mate with a corresponding formation associated with the component 100. Although three alignment features are depicted, it is contemplated that the carrier 200 may include any number of alignment features, such as one, two, four, five, or more.

[0032] As described below, when carrier 200 is positioned on face 102 of component 100, alignment feature 220 is aligned with formation 120, alignment feature 222 is aligned with formation 122, and alignment feature 224 is aligned with formation 124 to enable transfer of a seal member from retention groove 210 of carrier 200 to seal groove 110 of component 100. It is contemplated that in some embodiments, one or more of alignment features 220, 222, 224 may be in the form of a protrusion sized and shaped to fit into a corresponding receptacle, such as one of formations 120, 122, 124 on face 102 of component 100.

[0033] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the carrier 200 may include a first alignment feature in the form of one of a hole, recess, cutout, notch, slot, protrusion, or other structure or irregularity, and a second alignment feature in the form of one of a hole, recess, cutout, notch, slot, protrusion, or other structure or irregularity that is of a different form than the form of the first alignment feature. For example, the first alignment feature may be a hole and the second alignment feature may be a protrusion.

[0034] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the carrier 200 may include structures or formations that perform more than one function, one such function being related to alignment of the carrier 200 on the surface 102 of the component 100. For example, in an embodiment in which the carrier 200 is at least partially see-through, such as by being transparent, translucent, diaphanous, etc., an operator may visually determine whether the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200 is properly aligned with the seal groove 110 of the component 100. In such an example, the retention groove 210 performs a first function of receiving the seal member, a second function of protecting the seal member, and a third function of aiding in positioning the carrier 200 on the surface 102 of the component 100. In some embodiments, features in or on the carrier 200 that serve only to aid in alignment of the carrier 200 on the surface 102 of the component 100 may be omitted. For example, any or all of the alignment features 220, 222, 224 may be omitted.

[0035] It is contemplated that the carrier 200 may be made from a material that provides protection for the seal member from physical contact, but is flexible enough to allow a portion of the carrier 200 to elastically deform without another portion of the carrier 200 deforming. For example, the carrier 200 may be made from an elastomer, such as silicone. Additionally, the material of the carrier 200 may be selected such that the carrier 200 is at least partially see-through, such as transparent, semi-transparent, translucent, etc., which helps facilitate alignment of the retention groove 210 with the seal groove 110 of the component 100. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the carrier 200 is molded as a monolithic part, including the retention groove 210 and one or more alignment features. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the carrier 200 is molded as a monolithic part, including the retention groove 210, one or more channels, and one or more alignment features.

[0036] 3A illustrates generally an exemplary insertion tool that may be used in practicing the methods of the present disclosure. In FIG. 3A, the insertion tool 300 includes a handle 305 attached to a roller 310. The roller 310 is configured to rotate relative to the handle 305. In the methods described below, the roller 310 is used to apply pressure to the carrier 200 and / or to apply pressure directly to the seal member. In some embodiments, the insertion tool 300 includes a forming head in place of the roller 310.

[0037] 3B-3D show exemplary schematic cross-sectional profiles of roller 310. In embodiments where the insertion tool includes a forming head instead of a roller, the forming head may include a cross-sectional profile according to any of those depicted in FIGS. 3B-3D. Additionally or alternatively, other cross-sectional profiles of roller 310 and forming head are contemplated. In FIG. 3B, contact surface 315 of roller 310 includes straight portion 320. In FIG. 3C, contact surface 315 of roller 310 includes rounded portion 330. In FIG. 3D, contact surface 315 of roller 310 includes recessed portion 340.

[0038] 4-6 provide an exemplary method of using the carrier 200 to insert a seal member into the seal groove 110 of the component 100. As a prelude to each of the methods of FIGS. 4-6, the seal member is pre-installed in the retaining groove 210 of the carrier 200, and the carrier 200 is placed on the component 100 such that the front surface 202 of the carrier 200 faces the face 102 of the component 100. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the seal member may be housed in the retaining groove 210 together with a spacer member. The spacer member may be made of a polymer such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). In such an embodiment, the method of the present disclosure may be applied to transfer the seal member and the spacer member together into the seal groove 110.

[0039] 4 , the method begins in operation 402 by aligning carrier 200 with component 100 such that retention groove 210 of carrier 200 overlies seal groove 110 of component 100. In some embodiments, alignment of retention groove 210 of carrier 200 with seal groove 110 of component 100 is achieved by orienting carrier 200 such that alignment feature 220 overlies formation 120, and / or alignment feature 222 overlies formation 122, and / or alignment feature 224 overlies formation 124. In some embodiments, such as when any one or more of the formations 120, 122, 124 are ports, recesses, or slots and the corresponding alignment features 220, 222, 224 are holes or slots, it is contemplated that a peg may be inserted through any of the alignment features 220, 222, 224 into the corresponding formations 120, 122, 124, respectively.

[0040] In embodiments in which at least one alignment feature 220, 222, 224 of the carrier 200 is a protrusion, alignment of the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200 with the seal groove 110 of the component 100 is achieved by orienting the carrier 200 such that the protrusion is inserted into a corresponding formation 120, 122, 124 or another receptacle of the component 100. In embodiments in which at least one alignment feature 220, 222, 224 of the component 100 is a protrusion, alignment of the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200 with the seal groove 110 of the component 100 is achieved by orienting the carrier 200 such that the protrusion is inserted into a corresponding alignment feature 220, 222, 224 of the carrier 200 or another receptacle. In embodiments in which the carrier 200 is at least partially see-through, such as by being transparent, translucent, translucent, etc., alignment of the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200 with the seal groove 110 of the component 100 is achieved by orienting the carrier 200 such that an operator visually confirms the alignment.

[0041] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that alignment of the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200 with the seal groove 110 of the component 100 is achieved by mating the alignment features 220, 222, 224 of the carrier 200 with corresponding formations 120, 122, 124 associated with the component 100 that are shaped and sized to engage the alignment features 220, 222, 224. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that aligning the carrier 200 with the component 100 such that the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200 overlies the seal groove 110 of the component 100 is achieved by any one or more of the methods described above.

[0042] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the carrier 200 can be secured in place when the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200 overlaps the seal groove 110 of the component 100. In one example, a load can be applied to the carrier 200 relative to the component 100. In another example, the carrier 200 can be temporarily adhered to the component 100 by tape and / or adhesive. In a further example, the carrier 200 can be clamped to the component 100. In yet another example, one or more of the formations 120, 122, 124 are ports, and the carrier 200 is secured to the component 100 by applying a vacuum through one or more of the formations 120, 122, 124 when the corresponding alignment features 220, 222, 224, respectively, of the carrier 200 are not holes or are omitted.

[0043] In operation 404, a first insertion of the seal member into the seal groove 110 of the component 100 is performed. The insertion tool 300 is pressed against the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 opposite each channel 270. The carrier 200 deforms under the pressure applied by the insertion tool 300, and a portion of the seal member under the insertion tool 300 is transferred into the seal groove 110 of the component 100. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view that illustrates the transfer of a portion of the seal member 105 into the seal groove 110 of the component 100. The pressure applied by the roller 310 of the insertion tool 300 locally deforms the carrier 200 to force a portion of the seal member 105 into the seal groove 110. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 includes a roller 310 or a forming head that includes a cross-sectional profile according to that shown in FIG. 3B.

[0044] It is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 may move back and forth on the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 against each channel 270 while pressing against the carrier 200. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the back and forth movement may begin proximate the center 206 of the carrier 200. Where a portion of the seal member 105 intersects with the channel 270 of the carrier 200, at least a portion of the seal member 105 is inserted into the seal groove 110 of the component 100. In some embodiments, the first insertion of operation 404 may be performed by applying the insertion tool 300 to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 in the channel 270 without moving it back and forth.

[0045] 2B, in an embodiment in which the carrier 200 includes radially oriented channels, it is contemplated that the first insertion may be performed by applying pressure via the insertion tool 300 to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 at each radial channel 280, 284, 288 in a predetermined sequence. In one example, the insertion tool 300 applies pressure to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 at each primary radial channel 280, then at each secondary radial channel 284, then at each tertiary radial channel 288. In another example, the insertion tool 300 applies pressure to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 first at any radial channel 280, 284, 288, then at successive radial channels 280, 284, 288 in a clockwise (or counterclockwise) direction. In a further example, the insertion tool 300 applies pressure to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 in a sector-by-sector sequence. For example, the first primary radial channel 280 may be at the 12 o'clock position and the second primary radial channel 280 may be at the 3 o'clock position. The insertion tool 300 may apply pressure to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 at the first primary radial channel 280, then at the second primary radial channel 280, and then at any secondary radial channels 284 and tertiary radial channels 288 located between the first and second primary radial channels 280.

[0046] 7 , by applying pressure to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 via the insertion tool 300 at each channel 270, one or more portions of the seal member 105 are transferred from the carrier 200 to the seal groove 110 of the component 100. When the pressure from the application of the insertion tool 300 is released, the carrier 200 resiliently returns to its undeformed state, leaving the transferred portions of the seal member 105 in the seal groove 110 of the component 100. The other portions of the seal member 105 remain in the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200.

[0047] Returning to FIG. 4 , in operation 406, the carrier 200 is removed from the surface 102 of the component 100. In embodiments in which the carrier 200 was secured to the component 100, the securing mechanism, such as a tape, clamp, load, or vacuum, is removed or disabled. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that an operator may peel the carrier 200 from the component 100. It is further contemplated that the portion of the seal member 105 in the seal groove 110 secures the seal member 105 in place such that the portion of the seal member 105 remaining in the retention groove 210 after operation 404 is pulled out of the retention groove 210 during operation 406. After removing the carrier 200, some portions of the seal member 105 are in the seal groove 110 of the component 100 and other portions of the seal member 105 are on the surface 102 of the component 100 above the seal groove 110.

[0048] In operation 408, a second insertion of the seal member 105 into the seal groove 110 of the component 100 occurs. The insertion tool 300 is pressed against the portions of the seal member 105 that are above the seal groove 110 and on the face 102 of the component 100 to insert those portions of the seal member 105 into the seal groove 110.

[0049] 8A-8C provide exemplary schematic cross-sectional views of the seal member 105 being inserted into different profiles of the seal groove 110 in operation 408. FIG. 8A shows the rectangular seal groove 130 of FIG. 1B. As mentioned above, the axis 115 is perpendicular to the face 102 of the component 100. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 (FIG. 3A) includes a roller 310 or a forming head including a cross-sectional profile according to that shown in FIG. 3B, FIG. 3C, or FIG. 3D. In operation 408, pressure is applied to the seal member 105 via the insertion tool 300 in a direction substantially along the axis 115, such as in a direction of up to 8 degrees, up to 6 degrees, up to 4 degrees, or up to 2 degrees from the axis 115. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 is moved along the rectangular seal groove 130 while forcing the seal member 105 into the rectangular seal groove 130. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that once a portion of the seal member 105 is inserted into the rectangular seal groove 130, the pressure applied to that inserted portion of the seal member 105 by the insertion tool 300 is reduced or removed before moving the insertion tool 300 to another portion of the seal member 105.

[0050] FIG. 8B illustrates the half dovetail seal groove 140 of FIG. 1C. As mentioned above, the axis 115 is perpendicular to the face 102 of the component 100. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 (FIG. 3A) includes a roller 310 or a forming head including a cross-sectional profile according to that shown in FIG. 3B, FIG. 3C, or FIG. 3D. In some embodiments, during operation, pressure is applied to the seal member 105 via the insertion tool 300 in a direction substantially along the axis 115, such as in a direction of up to 8 degrees, up to 6 degrees, up to 4 degrees, or up to 2 degrees from the axis 115. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 is moved along the half dovetail seal groove 140 while forcing the seal member 105 into the half dovetail seal groove 140 in a direction substantially along the axis 115. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that once a portion of the seal member 105 is inserted into the semi-dovetail seal groove 140, the pressure applied to that inserted portion of the seal member 105 by the insertion tool 300 is reduced or removed before moving the insertion tool 300 to another portion of the seal member 105.

[0051] Additionally or alternatively, pressure is applied to the seal member 105 via the insertion tool 300 in the direction depicted by arrow 410. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 includes a roller 310 or forming head including a cross-sectional profile according to that shown in FIG. 3C. The arrow 410 is at an acute angle 412 with respect to the axis 115. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the angle 412 and the angle 145 of the second side wall 144 of the half dovetail seal groove 140 with respect to the axis 115 are substantially equal, such as within 5 degrees, within 4 degrees, within 3 degrees, within 2 degrees, or within 1 degree. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the angle 412 and the angle 145 are not substantially equal. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 is moved along the half dovetail seal groove 140 while forcing the seal member 105 into the half dovetail seal groove 140 in the direction of the arrow 410. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that once a portion of the seal member 105 is inserted into the semi-dovetail seal groove 140, the pressure applied to that inserted portion of the seal member 105 by the insertion tool 300 is reduced or removed before moving the insertion tool 300 to another portion of the seal member 105.

[0052] FIG. 8C illustrates the dovetail seal groove 150 of FIG. 1D. As mentioned above, the axis 115 is perpendicular to the face 102 of the component 100. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 includes a roller 310 or forming head including a cross-sectional profile according to that shown in FIG. 3C. In operation, pressure is applied to the seal member 105 via the insertion tool 300 in a direction depicted by arrow 420. The arrow 420 is at an acute angle 422 with respect to the axis 115. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the angle 422 and the angle 153 of the first sidewall 152 of the dovetail seal groove 150 with respect to the axis 115 are substantially equal, such as within 5 degrees, within 4 degrees, within 3 degrees, within 2 degrees, or within 1 degree. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the angle 422 and the angle 153 are not substantially equal. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 is moved along the dovetail seal groove 150 while forcing the seal member 105 into the dovetail seal groove 150 in the direction of arrow 420. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that once a portion of the seal member 105 is inserted into the dovetail seal groove 150, the pressure applied by the insertion tool 300 to that inserted portion of the seal member 105 is reduced or removed before moving the insertion tool 300 to another portion of the seal member 105.

[0053] Additionally or alternatively, pressure is applied to the seal member 105 via the insertion tool 300 in the direction depicted by arrow 430. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 includes a roller 310 or forming head including a cross-sectional profile according to that shown in FIG. 3C. The arrow 430 is at an acute angle 432 with respect to the axis 115. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the angle 432 and the angle 155 of the second side wall 154 of the dovetail seal groove 150 with respect to the axis 115 are substantially equal, such as within 5 degrees, within 4 degrees, within 3 degrees, within 2 degrees, or within 1 degree. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the angle 432 and the angle 155 are not substantially equal. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 is moved along the dovetail seal groove 150 while forcing the seal member 105 into the dovetail seal groove 150 in the direction of the arrow 430. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that once a portion of the seal member 105 is inserted into the dovetail seal groove 150, the pressure applied to that inserted portion of the seal member 105 by the insertion tool 300 is reduced or removed before moving the insertion tool 300 to another portion of the seal member 105.

[0054] During and / or after operation 408, in some embodiments, it is contemplated that method 400 may continue with inspection of seal member 105 installed in seal groove 110 of component 100. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that method 400 may then continue with adjustment of seal member 105 as needed, such as by repeating operation 408 on one or more discrete portions of seal member 105.

[0055] 5, method 500 begins in operation 502 by aligning carrier 200 with component 100 such that retention groove 210 of carrier 200 overlies seal groove 110 of component 100. Operation 502 is the same as operation 402 of method 400, and thus the above description regarding operation 402 also applies to operation 502 of method 500.

[0056] In operation 504, a first insertion of the seal member 105 into the seal groove 110 of the component 100 occurs. Operation 504 is the same as operation 404 of method 400, and thus the above description regarding operation 404, including reference to Figure 7 and Figures 2A-2B, also applies to operation 504 of method 500.

[0057] In operation 506, a second insertion of the seal member 105 into the seal groove 110 of the component 100 is performed. The insertion tool 300 is pressed against the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 opposite the retention groove 210. The carrier 200 deforms under the pressure applied by the insertion tool 300, and a portion of the seal member 105 under the insertion tool 300 is pushed out of the retention groove 210 and transferred to the seal groove 110 of the component 100. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 includes a roller 310 or a forming head including a cross-sectional profile according to that shown in FIG. 3B, FIG. 3C, or FIG. 3D. In some embodiments, pressure is applied to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 via the insertion tool 300 in a direction substantially along the axis 115 (FIGS. 1B-1D), such as in a direction of up to 8 degrees, up to 6 degrees, up to 4 degrees, or up to 2 degrees from the axis 115. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 moves along the carrier 200, following the retention groove 210, while forcing the seal member 105 into the seal groove 110. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that once a portion of the seal member 105 is inserted into the seal groove 110, the pressure exerted by the insertion tool 300 on the carrier 200 is reduced or removed before moving the insertion tool 300 to another portion of the carrier 200 to transfer another portion of the seal member 105 into the seal groove 110.

[0058] In operation 508, carrier 200 is removed from face 102 of component 100. Operation 508 is the same as operation 406 of method 400, and therefore the above description regarding operation 406 also applies to operation 508 of method 500.

[0059] After operation 508, in some embodiments, it is contemplated that the method 500 may continue with inspection of the seal member 105 installed in the seal groove 110 of the component 100. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the method 500 may then continue with conditioning the seal member 105, if necessary, such as by applying an insertion tool 300 to the seal member 105, as in operation 408 of method 400. In such embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 may be applied to the entire seal member 105 or to one or more discrete portions of the seal member 105.

[0060] 6, method 600 begins in operation 602 by aligning carrier 200 with component 100 such that retention groove 210 of carrier 200 overlies seal groove 110 of component 100. Operation 602 is the same as operation 402 of method 400, and thus the above description regarding operation 402 also applies to operation 602 of method 600.

[0061] In operation 604, the seal member 105 is inserted into the seal groove 110 of the component 100. Operation 604 is the same as operation 506 of method 500, and thus the above description regarding operation 506 also applies to operation 604 of method 600. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the carrier 200 used in the method 600 may not include the radial channels 280, 284, 288. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the carrier 200 used in the method 600 may include one or more other channels 270. In such embodiments, the method 600 may include an operation of applying pressure to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 opposite the one or more other channels 370 to transfer one or more portions of the seal member 105 into the seal groove 110 of the component 100. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that the carrier 200 used in the method 600 may not include the channel 370.

[0062] In operation 606, carrier 200 is removed from surface 102 of component 100. Operation 606 is the same as operation 406 of method 400, and therefore the above description regarding operation 406 also applies to operation 606 of method 600.

[0063] After operation 606, in some embodiments, it is contemplated that the method 600 may continue with inspecting the seal member 105 installed in the seal groove 110 of the component 100. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the method 600 may then continue with adjusting the seal member 105, if necessary, such as by applying an insertion tool 300 to the seal member 105, as in operation 408 of method 400. In such embodiments, it is contemplated that the insertion tool 300 may be applied to the entire seal member 105 or to one or more discrete portions of the seal member 105.

[0064] It is contemplated that in some embodiments, the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200 may be configured to mitigate a risk of damaging the seal member 105 when the seal member 105 is transferred to the seal groove 110 of the component 100 during operation 506 of the method 500 or operation 604 of the method 600. For example, a risk of damage to the seal member 105 may arise if the seal member 105 is pinched at the opening 158 of the dovetail seal groove 150 of the component 100 during transfer from the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200. Such a risk may be mitigated by appropriate selection of the width of the opening (openings 238, 248, 258, 268, etc.) of the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200 and / or appropriate selection of the cross-sectional profile of the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200.

[0065] 9A-9D provide exemplary schematic cross-sectional views illustrating how the retention groove 210 of the carrier 200 can be configured and positioned to reduce the risk of damaging the seal member 105 during transfer of the seal member 105 from the retention groove 210 to the seal groove 110 of the component 100.

[0066] 9A shows the rectangular seal groove 130 of FIG. 1B and the rectangular retention groove 230 of FIG. 2C. As described above, axis 115 is perpendicular to face 102 of component 100, and axis 215 is perpendicular to front face 202 of carrier 200. As shown, axis 115 is parallel to axis 215. Front face 202 of carrier 200 is disposed on face 102 of component 100. Opening 238 of rectangular retention groove 230 of carrier 200 is aligned with opening 138 of rectangular seal groove 130 of component 100. The width of opening 238 of rectangular retention groove 230 is selected to be equal to or less than the width of opening 138 of rectangular seal groove 130. When pressure is applied to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 via the insertion tool 300 in a direction substantially along the axis 115 (as described above) during operation 506 of method 500 or operation 604 of method 600, the relative size of the openings 138, 238 and the alignment of the openings 138, 238 facilitate damage-free transfer of the seal member 105 into the rectangular seal groove 130 of the component 100.

[0067] 9B shows the half dovetail seal groove 140 of FIG. 1C and the half dovetail retaining groove 240 of FIG. 2D. As described above, axis 115 is perpendicular to face 102 of component 100 and axis 215 is perpendicular to front face 202 of carrier 200. As shown, axis 115 is parallel to axis 215. Front face 202 of carrier 200 is disposed on face 102 of component 100. Opening 248 of half dovetail retaining groove 240 of carrier 200 is aligned with opening 148 of half dovetail seal groove 140 of component 100. The width of opening 248 of half dovetail retaining groove 240 is selected to be equal to or less than the width of opening 148 of half dovetail seal groove 140. When pressure is applied to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 via the insertion tool 300 in a direction substantially along the axis 115 (as described above) during operation 506 of method 500 or operation 604 of method 600, the relative size of the openings 148, 248 and the alignment of the openings 148, 248 facilitate damage-free transfer of the seal member 105 into the semi-dovetail seal groove 140 of the component 100.

[0068] In the illustrated example, the first sidewall 242 of the half dovetail retaining groove 240 is disposed proximal to the second sidewall 144 of the half dovetail seal groove 140. As described above, the first sidewall 242 of the half dovetail retaining groove 240 is substantially parallel to the axis 115. The second sidewall 144 of the half dovetail seal groove 140 extends at an acute angle 145 with respect to the axis 115. In addition, the second sidewall 244 of the half dovetail retaining groove 240 is disposed proximal to the first sidewall 142 of the half dovetail seal groove 140. The second sidewall 244 of the half dovetail retaining groove 240 extends at an acute angle 245 with respect to the axis 215. As described above, the first sidewall 142 of the half dovetail seal groove 140 is substantially parallel to the axis 115. In the illustrated example, when pressure is applied to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 via the insertion tool 300 in a direction substantially along the axis 115 (as described above), the second side wall 244 of the half dovetail retaining groove 240 is intended to guide the seal member 105 toward the portion of the half dovetail seal groove 140 bounded by the second side wall 144 of the half dovetail seal groove 140.

[0069] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that angles 145 and 245 are substantially equal, such as within 5 degrees, within 4 degrees, within 3 degrees, within 2 degrees, or within 1 degree. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that angles 145 and 245 are not substantially equal.

[0070] 9C shows the dovetail seal groove 150 of FIG. 1D and the dovetail retaining groove 250 of FIG. 2E. As described above, axis 115 is perpendicular to face 102 of component 100 and axis 215 is perpendicular to front face 202 of carrier 200. As shown, axis 115 is parallel to axis 215. Front face 202 of carrier 200 is disposed on face 102 of component 100. The opening of dovetail retaining groove 250 of carrier 200 is aligned with the opening of dovetail seal groove 150 of component 100. The width of opening 258 of dovetail retaining groove 250 is selected to be equal to or less than the width of opening 158 of dovetail seal groove 150. When pressure is applied to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 via the insertion tool 300 in a direction substantially along the axis 115 (as described above) during operation 506 of method 500 or operation 604 of method 600, the relative size of the openings 158, 258 and the alignment of the openings 158, 258 facilitate damage-free transfer of the seal member 105 into the dovetail seal groove 150 of the component 100.

[0071] In the illustrated example, the first sidewall 252 of the dovetail retention groove 250 is disposed proximate to the second sidewall 154 of the dovetail seal groove 150. The first sidewall 252 of the dovetail retention groove 250 extends at an acute angle 253 with respect to the axis 215. The second sidewall 154 of the dovetail seal groove 150 extends at an acute angle 155 with respect to the axis 115. In addition, the second sidewall 254 of the dovetail retention groove 250 is disposed proximate to the first sidewall 152 of the dovetail seal groove 150. The second sidewall 254 of the dovetail retention groove 250 extends at an acute angle 255 with respect to the axis 215. The first sidewall 152 of the dovetail seal groove 150 extends at an acute angle 153 with respect to the axis 115. In the illustrated example, when pressure is applied to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 via the insertion tool 300 in a direction substantially along the axis 115 (as described above), the second side wall 254 of the dovetail retention groove 250 is intended to guide the seal member 105 towards the portion of the dovetail seal groove 150 bounded by the second side wall 154 of the dovetail seal groove 150. Similarly, the first side wall 252 of the dovetail retention groove 250 is intended to guide the seal member 105 towards the portion of the dovetail seal groove 150 bounded by the first side wall 152 of the dovetail seal groove 150.

[0072] In some embodiments, it is contemplated that angles 153 and 255 are substantially equal, such as within 5 degrees, 4 degrees, 3 degrees, 2 degrees, or 1 degree. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that angles 153 and 255 are not substantially equal. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that angles 155 and 253 are substantially equal, such as within 5 degrees, 4 degrees, 3 degrees, 2 degrees, or 1 degree. In other embodiments, it is contemplated that angles 255 and 153 are not substantially equal.

[0073] 9D shows the dovetail seal groove 150 of FIG. 1D and the lobed retention groove 260 of FIG. 2F. As described above, axis 115 is perpendicular to face 102 of component 100 and axis 215 is perpendicular to front face 202 of carrier 200. As shown, axis 115 is parallel to axis 215. Front face 202 of carrier 200 is disposed on face 102 of component 100. Opening 268 of lobed retention groove 260 of carrier 200 is aligned with opening 158 of dovetail seal groove 150 of component 100. The width of opening 268 of lobed retention groove 260 is selected to be equal to or less than the width of opening 158 of dovetail seal groove 150. When pressure is applied to the back surface 204 of the carrier 200 via the insertion tool 300 in a direction substantially along the axis 115 (as described above) during operation 506 of method 500 or operation 604 of method 600, the relative size of the openings 158, 268 and the alignment of the openings 158, 268 facilitate damage-free transfer of the seal member 105 into the dovetail seal groove 150 of the component 100.

[0074] 9A-9D illustrate example combinations of configurations of seal groove 110 and configurations of retention groove 210. It is contemplated that any of the above-described configurations of retention groove 210 may be used with carrier 200 to facilitate placement of seal member 105 in any of the above-described configurations of seal groove 110.

[0075] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an apparatus and method for quickly, accurately, uniformly, and consistently installing a seal member (and associated spacer member, if present) into a seal groove. The apparatus includes a carrier having a retention groove that provides protection for the seal member. The carrier is flexible enough to deform under pressure applied by an insertion tool to force at least a portion of the seal member into the seal groove.

[0076] While the forgoing is directed to embodiments of the present disclosure, other and further embodiments of the disclosure may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof, the scope of the disclosure being determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A carrier for facilitating transfer of a seal member to a seal groove formed in a chamber component, comprising: a tray including a front surface and a back surface; a retention groove formed in the front surface, the retention groove configured to receive the seal member and including a first sidewall separated from a second sidewall, the first and second sidewalls extending from the front surface to a floor of the retention groove; alignment features formed on or in said tray; Equipped with the tray is deformable in response to pressure applied to the rear surface such that the seal member is pushed out of the retention groove; Career.

2. The carrier of claim 1 , further comprising a first channel formed in said front surface and intersecting said retention groove, said first channel being wider than said retention groove.

3. The carrier of claim 2 , wherein the first channel extends from a first location proximate a center of the tray to a second location proximate an edge of the carrier.

4. The carrier of claim 3 further comprising a second channel formed in said front surface and intersecting said retention groove.

5. The carrier of claim 2 , wherein the second channel extends from a third location proximate a center of the tray to a fourth location proximate an edge of the tray.

6. The carrier of claim 5 , wherein the first channel and the second channel extend radially.

7. The carrier of claim 1 , wherein the retention groove is spiral.

8. The carrier of claim 1 , wherein the tray is at least partially see-through.

9. The carrier of claim 1 , wherein the alignment features are in the form of one of holes, recesses, cutouts, notches, slots, protrusions, or other irregularities.

10. The carrier of claim 9 further comprising a second alignment feature in the form of one of a hole, recess, notch, notch, slot, protrusion, or other irregularity.

11. 1. A method for installing a seal member in a seal groove formed in a face of a component, comprising the steps of: placing a front surface of a carrier against the face of the component, the carrier including a retention groove formed in the front surface, the seal member being disposed within the retention groove; aligning the retention groove with the seal groove; applying pressure to a back surface of the carrier, thereby deforming the carrier and moving at least a portion of the seal member into the seal groove; A method comprising:

12. The method of claim 11 , wherein aligning the retention groove with the seal groove comprises aligning an alignment feature on the carrier with a corresponding feature associated with the component.

13. applying pressure to a back surface of the carrier; applying said pressure to the back surface of said carrier opposite a channel formed in said front surface of said carrier, said channel intersecting said retention groove; The method of claim 11 further comprising:

14. applying pressure to a back surface of the carrier; applying said pressure to said back surface of said carrier opposite said retention groove; The method of claim 11 further comprising:

15. the retention groove includes a first opening in the front surface of the carrier; the seal groove includes a second opening in the face of the component; The width of the second opening is greater than the width of the first opening. The method of claim 14.

16. the retention groove includes a first sidewall extending from a floor of the retention groove toward the first opening at an acute angle relative to the axis; when the pressure is applied to the back surface of the carrier, the first side wall guides the seal member through the first opening. The method of claim 15.

17. The method of claim 11 , wherein the retention groove and the seal member are helical.

18. 1. A method for installing a seal member in a seal groove formed in a face of a component, comprising the steps of: placing a front surface of a carrier against the face of the component, the carrier comprising: a retention groove formed in the front surface, the seal member being disposed within the retention groove; and a plurality of channels formed in said front surface and intersecting said retention groove; and aligning the retention groove with the seal groove; applying pressure to a back surface of the carrier opposite each of the plurality of channels, thereby deforming the carrier and moving a plurality of first portions of the seal member into the seal grooves; removing the carrier from the face of the component; A method comprising:

19. after applying pressure to a back surface of the carrier opposite each of the plurality of channels and prior to removing the carrier from the face of the component; applying a second pressure to the back surface of the carrier opposite the retention groove, thereby deforming the carrier and moving a plurality of second portions of the seal member out of the retention groove and into the seal groove; 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

20. removing the carrier from the surface of the component to release a plurality of second portions of the seal member from the retention grooves; applying a second pressure to each of the plurality of second portions of the seal member, thereby moving the plurality of second portions of the seal member into the seal groove; 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising:

Images