Devices, systems, and methods for reducing foreign object damage to an asset during an industrial operation

Abstract

A system configured to reduce foreign object damage to an asset during an industrial operation is disclosed herein. The system can include a substrate. The substrate can define a plurality of designated locations. The system can further include a plurality of protective barriers. Each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers can be configured for installation on a different portion of the asset and is configured to protect the asset during the industrial operation when installed on the different portion of the asset. Each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers can be further configured for reinstallation into a geometrically corresponding location of the plurality of designated locations of the substrate.

Description

Non-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR REDUCING FOREIGN OBJECT DAMAGE TO AN ASSET DURING AN INDUSTRIAL OPERATIONCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims the benefit of and priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63,694,890, titled SMART-FOD Kit: Systematic Maintenance and Accountability for Reducing Threats of Foreign Object Damage, filed September 15, 2024, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure is directed to foreign object damage control and, more specifically, a kit of protective barriers and a substrate configured to enhance accountability and tracking during an industrial operation.SUMMARY

[0003] In one general embodiment, a kit configured to reduce foreign object damage to an asset as a result of an industrial operation is disclosed. The kit includes a substrate, wherein the substrate defines a plurality of designated locations, and a plurality of protective barriers, wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is configured for installation on a different portion of the asset, wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is configured to protect the asset during the industrial operation when installed on the different portion of the asset, and wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is further configured for reinstallation into a geometrically corresponding location of the plurality of designated locations of the substrate.

[0004] In another general embodiment, a method of reducing foreign object damage to an asset as a result of an industrial operation is disclosed. The method can include identifying a kit of protective barriers to install onto an asset based on an asset type and an industrial operation to be performed on an asset, removing each protective barrier from their respective position on a kit substrate for installation onto the asset, installing each protective barrier onto the asset based on a geometric correspondence between the protective barrier and an asset component, performing the industrial operation on the asset after each protective barrier of the kit has been installed onto the asset, removing each protective barrier of the kit from the asset, and reinstalling each protective barrier onto its designated location of the kit substrate, wherein each protective barrier geometrically corresponds to its designated location.

[0005] In still another general embodiment, a system configured to reduce foreign object damage to an asset as a result of a multi-task industrial operation, the system including a plurality of substrates, wherein each substrate of the plurality of substrates is associated withNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 a specific task of the multi-task industrial operation, and wherein each substrate of the plurality of substrates defines a plurality of designated locations, and a plurality of protective barriers, wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is configured for installation on a different portion of the asset, wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is configured to protect the asset during the multi-task industrial operation when installed on the different portion of the asset, and wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is further configured for reinstallation into a geometrically corresponding location of the plurality of designated locations of at least one substrate of the plurality of substrates.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Various embodiments are described herein by way of example in connection with the following figures, wherein:

[0007] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a system for reducing foreign object damage to an exemplary asset during an industrial operation, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0008] FIG. 2 illustrates a top view of a kit of protective barriers configured for use via the system of FIG. 1 , according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates a top view of another kit of protective barriers, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0010] FIGS. 4A-C illustrate a top views that further exhibit how the protective barriers of the kit of FIG. 3 can be selectively removed and installed from a substrate of the kit;

[0011] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a protective barrier of the kit of FIG. 3 being removed from the kit substrate;

[0012] FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram of a method of reducing foreign object damage to an asset during an industrial operation, according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0013] FIG. 7 illustrates another kit configured for use via the system of FIG. 1 , according to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure

[0014] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate various aspects of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner. The present disclosure contemplates additional embodiments in which various aspects and / or features of the depicted embodiments are modified or combined.Non-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] The following description is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use the devices, systems, and methods disclosed herein, and is provided in the context of particular embodiments and their requirements. Various modifications to the described embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, the devices, systems, and methods are not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

[0016] Although certain embodiments of the present disclosure describe how the disclosed devices, systems, and methods can be implemented to reduce damage to an aircraft during a wash procedure, it shall be appreciated that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. The devices, systems, and methods described herein are not limited to aircraft applications and may be implemented to reduce FOD on any asset undergoing any industrial operation where protection against contamination, damage, or loss is desirable. For example, the devices systems and methods disclosed herein can be implemented to reduce damage to any number of assets, such as aircraft, rotorcraft, spacecraft, unmanned aerial vehicles, ground vehicles, naval vessels, industrial machinery, power generation equipment, manufacturing robots, turbines, compressors, pumps, engines, test articles, and / or electronic systems, amongst others. Likewise, the present disclosure contemplates a number of different industrial operations, such as washing, cleaning, painting, coating, blasting, machining, assembly, disassembly, transport, inspection, maintenance, repair, overhaul, testing, storage, and / or launch operations, amongst others. Accordingly, the present disclosure shall not be limited to use with any particular type of asset or operation, except to the extent expressly set forth in the claims.

[0017] Foreign object damage presents a major safety and economic problem in aviation and industrial equipment operations, foreign object damage events cost the aviation industry billions of dollars annually and can cause component damage, system failures, and catastrophic accidents. Conventional foreign object damage prevention methods during maintenance, manufacturing, and storage activities typically rely on masking tape, temporary barriers, or improvised covers. These approaches are time-consuming, labor-intensive, and inconsistent. For example, a single fighter aircraft wash may require over seven additional man-hours of masking and unmasking procedures. These known methods also lack accountability. Missing tape or improperly removed covers can remain in place and cause severe consequences, as illustrated by the May 2020 F-22 crash at Eglin Air Force Base, which was linked to tape left on a flight control sensor. Visual oversight challenges compoundNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 the problem, as conventional protective materials lack sufficient warning indicators to reliably alert personnel that removal is required before operation. Further disadvantages include the absence of standardized procedures, inventory management, or traceability of protective materials to specific equipment. This prevents systematic cost control and complicates quality assurance or incident investigation. Reusable covers and organizational systems degrade or accumulate contaminants, introducing new foreign object damage risks rather than preventing them. Inconsistent application and installation errors further reduce the effectiveness of existing measures while increasing labor requirements. Accordingly, there is a need for devices, systems, and methods for reducing foreign object damage to assets during operations performed in industrial environments.

[0018] Such devices, systems, and methods could provide the aviation, industrial maintenance, and manufacturing industries with a comprehensive and standardized solution for foreign object damage prevention during maintenance activities. For example, the devices, systems, and methods include efficient, pre-organized protective covers configured for specific equipment types and maintenance tasks, while incorporating accountability mechanisms to ensure complete removal of all protective materials prior to operation. As described herein, these protective covers can include prominent visual indicators configured to reduce oversight of critical safety items, and a kit-based organization to streamline inventory management and cost control. Standardization across kits can further provide consistent levels of protection between technicians and facilities, while reducing maintenance preparation and completion times. By employing disposable or otherwise contaminationresistant materials, the disclosed systems can eliminate risks associated with reusable masking systems and organizational boards. Each kit can include unique serial number identifiers configured to enable complete traceability of protective barriers, and orientation, task, and location guidance configured to minimize installation errors and accelerate maintenance workflows. According to some embodiments, integration with existing tool control and accountability systems can provide comprehensive tracking and historical documentation of protective material use, thereby ensuring safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance across maintenance operations.

[0019] Referring now to FIG. 1 , a perspective view of a system 100 for reducing foreign object damage to an asset 104 undergoing an industrial operation, is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. According to the nonlimiting embodiment of FIG. 1 , the system 100 can include a plurality of protective barriers 102a / that can be selectively installed on and removed from the asset 104. Each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers 102a., can be geometrically configured to correspond to a specific component of the asset 104. Otherwise state, the geometric correspondence of each protective barrier 102a_, can be defined by a contour, shape, orNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 dimension that aligns with the form factor of the corresponding component of the asset 104. For example, a first protective barrier 102acan be configured with a circular profile to correspond to an intake port, a second protective barrier 102* can be configured with a rectangular profile to correspond to an exhaust port, and a third protective barrier 102c can be configured with an irregular outline to correspond to an access panel opening. In other embodiments, other protective barriers 102^, can be configured to correspond to joints, seams, fastener arrays, sensors, actuators, vents, inspection ports, electronic connectors, or other surface features of the asset 104. Such geometric correspondence can enable rapid installation, secure fit, and enhanced protection of critical components during the industrial operation.

[0020] In further reference to FIG. 1 , each protective barrier 102a- / can be configured to shield its corresponding component and surrounding regions of the asset 104 from foreign objects, contaminants, or debris generated during the industrial operation. In one embodiment, one or more protective barriers 102a_, can be configured to prevent solid particles, such as sand, dust, or metal shavings, from entering sensitive openings. In another embodiment, one or more protective barriers 102a_, can be configured to prevent debris and / or fluid infiltration, including wash water, detergents, lubricants, paint, or other process chemicals, from contacting internal components. In yet another embodiment, one or more protective barriers 102a_, can be configured to prevent airborne contaminants, such as overspray from coatings, from adhering to surfaces of the asset 104.

[0021] According to the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 1 , the industrial operation may includes wash. Accordingly, each protective barrier 102a_, can be configured to prevent fluid and / or particles dislodged during the wash from accessing, injuring, or otherwise affecting the corresponding components of the asset 104. For example, the first protective barrier 102a, corresponding to an intake port, can be configured to block wash fluid, soap residue, and dislodged debris from entering the internal airflow pathways. The second protective barrier 102ficorresponding to an exhaust port can be configured to prevent infiltration of high- pressure fluid streams and abrasive particles. The third protective barrier 102ccorresponding to an access panel opening can be configured to prevent fluid intrusion into wiring harnesses, avionics subsystems, or structural cavities located beneath the panel. Although wash operations provide one illustrative use case, it shall be appreciated that the plurality of protective barriers 102a., can also be configured for other industrial operations, including but not limited to painting, coating, blasting, machining, assembly, disassembly, testing, inspection, and storage. For example, during painting operations, one or more protective barriers 102a., can be configured to prevent overspray from contacting sensitive components. During blasting or machining operations, one or more protective barriers 102a., can beNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 configured to block particulate matter from entering delicate systems. During storage, one or more protective barriers 102a., can be configured to prevent ingress of dust, humidity, or pests.

[0022] Still referring to FIG. 1 , in certain embodiments, each protective barrier 102a., can be constructed from a flexible polymeric material configured to conform to irregular surface geometries of the asset 104. In other embodiments, one or more protective barriers 102a., can be constructed from rigid composite materials configured to resist deformation under high- pressure fluid impact. Still other embodiments can employ hybrid construction, wherein one or more protective barriers 102a., can include geometric features (e.g., a rigid core surrounded by a compliant elastomeric edge, a mechanical interlock, etc.) configured to form a seal against the asset 104. One or more protective barriers 102a_, can further include surface coatings configured to resist chemical degradation, ultraviolet exposure, or microbial growth.

[0023] According to some non-limiting embodiments, each protective barrier 102a., can further include features that enhance sealing, retention, or visibility. For example, such features can include compliant edges configured to conform to uneven or irregular surfaces of the asset 104, locking tabs or detents configured to secure the protective barrier 102a., in a fixed orientation relative to the asset 104, and / or handles or pull tabs configured to facilitate removal of the protective barrier 102a.(after the industrial operation, amongst others. According to still other embodiments, One or more protective barriers 102acan include high- visibility markings configured to alert maintenance personnel of the presence of protective barriers 102a_, and ensure removal prior to re-operation of the asset 104. One or more protective barriers 102a_, may further include integrated indicators, such as RFID tags, barcodes, or color-changing materials, configured to provide traceability, accountability, and / or status indication.

[0024] As will be described in further detail with reference to FIG. 2, the plurality of protective barriers 102a- / of the system 100 of FIG. 1 can be provided as part of a modular kit configured to correspond to a particular class of asset 104, industrial operation, or even a sub-task of the industrial operation. As explained in further detail herein, the kit can include a set of protective barriers 102a_, geometrically matched to openings, sensors, and interfaces of the asset 104 that must be protected due to the nature of the industrial operation or sub-task of the industrial operation. Such kits can improve consistency between maintenance teams, reduce training requirements, and ensure reliable coverage of vulnerable areas. Therefore, it shall be appreciated that the system 100 can reduce the risk of foreign object damage by ensuring all protective barriers 102a., are accounted for before and after the industrial operation. This can be crucial in preventing loose objects from being left behind, which could potentially cause damage during operation of the asset.

[0025] Referring now to FIG. 2, a top view of a kit 200 of protective barriers 202a.nconfigured for use via the system 100 of FIG. 1 , is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limitingNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 embodiment of the present disclosure. As depicted in FIG. 2, the kit 200 can include a substrate 201 that defines a plurality of designated locations 204a.n, wherein each designated location of the plurality of designated locations 204a.n, can geometrically correspond to one of the protective barriers 202a.n. Each protective barrier 202a.ncan be removably secured to the substrate 201 , such that removal of a protective barrier from its corresponding designated location reveals printed instruction 212 visible in the substrate 201 . In other words, the kit 200 can include a diagram or template with numbered, shadowed locations for each protective barrier 202a.n. This can assist users in placing and removing covers efficiently, ensuring that each cover is returned to its designated spot in the kit and enabling rapid, visual postmaintenance task inspection.

[0026] According to the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 2, the substrate 201 can be configured to function as an organizational base for protective barriers 202a.nprior to installation on the asset 104 (FIG. 1). Each designated location 204a.ncan be contoured or outlined in a manner that matches the geometric configuration of its corresponding protective barrier 202a.n. This geometric correspondence can assist users in quickly identifying which protective barrier belongs to which location on the substrate 201 , thereby ensuring that all protective barriers 202a.nare accounted for after an industrial operation. When a protective barrier 202a nhas been removed from the substrate 201 , the underlying printed instruction 212 can become visible. The printed instruction 212 can provide a directive such as “REINSTALL COVER IN SHADOWED LOCATION,” serving as a reminder that a protective barrier is missing from its designated location and should be reinstalled after use. According to some aspects, the printed instruction 212 can further include a barrier-identifying information such that similarly configured barriers of the plurality of protective barriers 202a.ncan be individually tracked, accounted for, and reinstalled back into their respective designated location 204a.n. For example, each kit 200 can be packaged with a unique serial number, and each of the protective barriers 202a.r, can be marked with a corresponding number. This can allow for precise tracking of each cover, ensuring that all protective barriers 202a.nare accounted for at all times. It shall be appreciated that this configuration can enhance accountability by providing both a visual and procedural indication of barrier status.

[0027] In further reference to FIG. 2, each protective barrier 202a.ncan further include a printed instruction 208 and / or application information 206. The printed instruction 208 can include cautionary text, such as “REMOVE BEFORE FLIGHT” or “REMOVE BEFORE OPERATION,” configured to warn maintenance or operations personnel that the barrier must be removed prior to use of the asset 104 (FIG. 1). The application information 206 can describe, for example, the industrial operation for which the protective barrier is intended, the component of the asset 104 (FIG. 1) to which the barrier corresponds, or additional handling requirements. According to some aspects, one or more protective barriers 202a.ncan furtherNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 include “correct orientation indicators,” or pictorial depictions of the asset 104 (FIG. 1), illustrating where and how the barrier should be installed. For example, a protective barrier 202dcan include an outline of an aircraft with a highlighted intake location corresponding to the barrier’s intended application. Such visual guidance can reduce installation errors, improve consistency across users, and provide training support for less experienced personnel. According to other aspects, one or more protective barriers 202a.ncan further include “task identifiers,” or a clear indication of the specific maintenance task for which the cover is designed (e.g., "AIRCRAFT WASH," "COMPONENT INSTALL," "PAINTING OPERATIONS"). According to still other aspects, one or more protective barriers 202a.ncan further include “location specifications,” or a precise identification of the equipment location where the cover should be installed (e.g., "UHF COMMUNICATIONS ANTENNA," "AERIAL REFUELING DOOR," "UPPER AFT ANTENNA"). It shall be appreciated that by including information such as orientation indicators, task identification, and / or location specification in the printed instruction 208, maintenance personnel can quickly identify the correct cover 202a.nfor each application, install it in the proper orientation, and remove it from the correct location, significantly reducing maintenance task time and eliminating installation errors.

[0028] Accordingly, it shall be further appreciated that the kit 200 of FIG. 2 can be configured to improve accountability and traceability over conventional protective systems. By providing designated locations 204a.nand printed instructions 212 on the substrate 201 , the kit 200 can enable personnel to confirm whether all protective barriers 202a nhave been returned after an industrial operation. The visibility of instructions 212 when barriers are missing can serve as a shadowbox or checklist-like feature, reducing the likelihood that a barrier remains unaccounted for and inadvertently left installed on the asset 104. Furthermore, the application information 206 and identifiers on protective barriers 202a.„ can be configured to provide traceability of individual barriers to specific assets, operations, or maintenance events. According to some aspects, each protective barrier 202a.ncan include a unique identifier such as a barcode, QR code, or RFID tag, which can correspond to its respective designated location 202a.n. These identifiers can be scanned into a digital tracking system to record when and where each protective barrier 202a.nwas installed and removed. This capability can support compliance verification, audit trails, and incident investigations by linking protective barriers to particular maintenance procedures and assets. According to aspects wherein the barriers 202a.nare usable, these features can assist in tracking exactly how many times each barrier 202a.nhas been used. Such features can further assist in incident investigation by establishing which protective barriers were applied during a given industrial operation.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the protective barriers 202a.nof the kit 200 of FIG.2 can utilize nontraditional masking and barrier technologies configured to improve performance, reduce contamination risk, and ensure safe interaction with sensitive equipmentNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 surfaces. For example, one or more of the protective barriers 202a.ncan be configured with advanced adhesion and attachment technologies that eliminate or minimize reliance on conventional masking tapes and chemical adhesives. Additionally, one or more of the protective barriers 202a.ncan employ non-adhesive options configured to conform to surfaces through material flexibility or surface energy properties, thereby reducing the risk of residue or damage to the asset 104. However, for applications where adhesion between the protective barriers 202a.nand the asset 104 (FIG. 1) is required, one or more of the protective barriers 202a.nmay include a specialized safe adhesive specifically formulated for compatibility with sensitive equipment surfaces. Such adhesives can be configured to enable reliable attachment while permitting clean removal without leaving, or while minimizing, residue and may include a low-tack pressure-sensitive adhesive (“PSA”), a water-soluble or water- dispersible adhesive (e.g., polyvinyl alcohol), a UV-curable, peelable adhesive, a hot-melt removable adhesive, a rubber-based “clean peel adhesive, and / or a hybrid adhesive film with release coatings, amongst others. In other words, it may be preferable for the protective barriers 202a.nto include characteristics such as a low- tack, controlled peel strength, a non-corrosive, halogen-free formulations, a resistance to aviation fluids, fuels, and solvents, an ability to remain stable under wide temperature ranges (e.g., -65 °F to 300 °F typical aerospace spec), and / or a certification to aerospace material standards (e.g. , Boeing BMS, Airbus ABS, or MIL-SPEC temporary protective adhesives, etc.). According to other non-limiting aspects, one or more of the protective barriers 202a.„ can include at least a semi-transparent material, such that at least a portion of the protective barrier 202a.nis clear and can facilitate visual inspection during application and the industrial operation. According to still other non-limiting aspects, one or more of the protective barriers 202a.ncan include color-changing properties to indicate exposure to specific conditions (e.g., temperatures, pressures, humidities, etc.) or contaminants (e.g., chemicals, etc.), as is applicable for the specific industrial operation or sub-task of the industrial operation.

[0030] In additional embodiments, one or more protective barriers 202a.nof the kit 200 of FIG. 2 can be alternately or additionally configured for topology-based attachment. For example, specialized surface geometries of the barrier can create a mechanical interlock or friction-based hold against corresponding geometries of the asset 104 (FIG. 1). This approach can allow the barrier to remain securely in place during the industrial operation while avoiding chemical adhesion. For applications involving metallic components, one or more protective barriers 202a.ncan be configured with magnetic attachment features. Magnetic covers can provide secure retention to compatible ferromagnetic surfaces without requiring adhesives, thereby enabling quick installation and removal. In still further embodiments, protective barriers 202a.ncan be configured to utilize London dispersion forces and Van der Waals interactions at the molecular level. By exploiting weak intermolecular attractive forces thatNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 arise from temporary electron density fluctuations, barriers can be configured to adhere securely without forming permanent chemical bonds. While such forces are individually weak, the cumulative effect across a large contact area can provide robust retention without the drawbacks of adhesive residue or surface contamination.

[0031] Still referring to FIG. 2, one or more protective barriers 202a.nof the kit 200 can be alternately or additionally configured with materials chosen for task-specific performance characteristics. For example, in some embodiments, a protective barrier 202a.ncan be constructed from materials with chemical resistance to solvents, fuels, hydraulic fluids, and cleaning agents commonly encountered during maintenance. This can prevent degradation of the barrier and contamination of the asset 104 (FIG. 1) during use. In further embodiments, a protective barrier 202a.ncan be fabricated from materials that have temperature tolerance sufficient to withstand the range of thermal conditions typically encountered during maintenance operations, such as high-temperature engine washes or cold-weather servicing. According to still other embodiments, a protective barrier 202a.ncan incorporate UV stability properties, enabling them to resist degradation from prolonged exposure to sunlight or ultraviolet radiation during outdoor operations or storage. One or more protective barriers 202a.ncan additionally be configured with anti-static properties, preventing accumulation of static charge during installation, removal, or exposure to high-velocity fluid streams. Such static control can be critical in environments where electrostatic discharge poses risks to sensitive avionics, sensors, or electronic systems within the asset 104 (FIG. 1).

[0032] According to some non-limiting aspects, the depicted substrate 201 of the kit 200 can be one of a plurality substrates included in the kit 200. For example, the kit 200 might be configured for use during a multi-task industrial operation and each substrate 201 of the plurality of substrates can include protective barriers 202a.nspecifically configured (e.g., geometry, composition, protective features, etc.) for each task or even sub-tasks of the multitask industrial operation.

[0033] Although FIG. 2 depicts a kit 200 configured for aviation applications, it shall be appreciated that the organizational and accountability features of the substrate 201 , designated locations 204a.n, printed instructions 212, and protective barriers 202a.ncan be broadly applicable to other industrial operations. For example, similar kits can be configured for use in naval, automotive, or power-generation environments, where multiple protective barriers are required during operations such as cleaning, painting, or inspection. Accordingly, the kit 200 of FIG. 2 can be configured not only to store and organize protective barriers 202a.n, but also to provide real-time accountability, usage guidance, and traceability to reduce foreign object damage across a wide range of assets and industrial operations.

[0034] Referring now to FIG. 3, a top view of a substrate 301 of another kit 300 configured for use via the system 100 of FIG. 1 is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limitingNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 embodiment of the present disclosure. It shall be appreciated that the kit 300 — and more specifically, the protective barriers 302a.n(FIGS. 4A-4C) — can be similarly configured to those previously described herein. According to the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 3, the substrate 301 can define a plurality of designated locations 304a n, each of which can geometrically correspond to one of the protective barriers 302a.n(FIGS. 4A-4C). As depicted in FIG. 3, the substrate 301 can further incorporate printed instructions, task-specific fields, and serialized identifiers configured to enhance accountability, traceability, and usability across maintenance operations.

[0035] According to the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 3, each designated location 304a- n of the kit 300 can include printed instructions visible when the corresponding protective barrier 302a.n(FIGS. 4A-4C) has been removed. These instructions can include directives such as "REINSTALL IN SHADOWED LOCATION BEFORE TASK IS COMPLETE,” which can serve as both a reminder to reinsert the protective barrier 302a.n(FIGS. 4A-4C) into the kit 300 and a visual confirmation that the barrier remains uninstalled from the asset 104 (FIG. 1). The printed instructions can be configured in high-contrast color schemes, such as black text on a yellow background, to maximize visibility and readability in varied lighting conditions.

[0036] Additionally, FIG. 3 illustrates how task-specific details can be included in certain designated locations 304a n. For example, locations 304eand 304fcan include fields 312 and 314 configured to record serial numbers (S / N), part numbers (P / N), task identifiers, vehicle types, or date codes. These fields can be used to guide users in applying protective barriers 302a.n(FIGS. 4A-4C) to the correct component of the asset 104 (FIG. 1) and to ensure that barriers are removed and accounted for before the task is deemed complete. The kit 300 can be configured to support full traceability of protective barriers 302a.n(FIGS. 4A-4C) by including unique identifiers. For example, according to some embodiments, each protective barrier 302a.n(FIGS. 4A-4C) can be serialized with its own S / N and linked to a P / N, thereby providing a unique record for accountability and event tracking. Numbered positions 304a.„ on the substrate 301 can further enable users to reconcile each barrier’s presence or absence at a glance, thereby reducing the likelihood of omission. Such serial number tracking can support quality control, incident investigation, and compliance with maintenance recordkeeping requirements. According to some embodiments, the unique identifiers can be machine- readable codes such as barcodes, QR codes, or RFID tags. These identifiers can be scanned into a digital tool-control system to generate an electronic record of which barriers 302a.n(FIGS. 4A-4C) were applied, removed, or missing during an industrial operation. This integration can provide comprehensive traceability throughout the lifecycle of each protective barrier 302a.n(FIGS. 4A-4C).

[0037] Still referring to FIG. 3, the substrate 301 can be structured to ensure that each protective barrier 302 has a dedicated, shaped location 304a.n, thereby aiding efficientNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 placement and retrieval. The ordered layout can promote consistency among technicians and facilitate quick verification that all barriers 302a.n(FIGS. 4A-4C) have been returned following use. According to some embodiments, the kit 300 can employ color contrasts and graphical markers to improve organization and reduce errors. For example, designated locations for protective barriers 302 corresponding to critical components (e.g., sensors or intakes) can be highlighted with distinct borders or shading. Such visual structuring can reduce the risk of overlooking high-priority covers during reinstallation or removal. In other words, it shall be appreciated that the design elements of the kit 300 of FIG. 3 collectively enable a robust accountability system. Clear labeling ensures that barriers 302a.n(FIGS. 4A-4C) are applied and removed in accordance with specific tasks. Serial number tracking and numbered positions provide traceability of individual barriers, as well as verification that all barriers are accounted for before reactivation of the asset 104 (FIG. 1). It shall be appreciated by those with skill in the art that squch a design aligns with relevant standards (e.g. , AFI 21-101) and integrates existing tool control methods into a consumable foreign object damage control systems. The structured layout of substrate 301 provides organization and user guidance, thereby reducing error rates and improving efficiency. Accordingly, the kit 300 of FIG. 3 can be configured not only to store and organize protective barriers 302a.n(FIGS. 4A-4C), but also to provide clear visual cues, standardized documentation, and complete traceability. This combination of features can significantly enhance safety, efficiency, and compliance in FOD prevention operations across aviation, industrial maintenance, and manufacturing environments.

[0038] Referring now to FIGS. 4A-C, several top views that exhibit how the protective barriers 302a.nof the kit of FIG. 3 can be selectively removed and installed from a substrate of the kit are depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 4A, all protective barriers 302a.„ can be installed within their designated locations on the substrate 301 . In this configuration, the kit 300 can be in a “ready” state, with each barrier 302a.nsecurely held in place until deployment. The protective barriers 302a.ncan include printed instructions such as “REMOVE BEFORE FLIGHT,” task-specific identifiers such as task numbers, vehicle type fields, and panel references, as well as serial and part number identifiers. With all protective barriers 302a.ninstalled, the kit 300 can be easily transported, inventoried, and stored without risk of misplacement.

[0039] As depicted in FIG. 4B, one or more protective barriers 302a.ncan be selectively removed from the substrate 301 for installation on an asset 104 (FIG. 1). When a barrier has been removed, its designated location 304a.ncan expose underlying printed instructions such as “REINSTALL S / N XXXXX P / N XXXXX IN SHADOWED LOCATION BEFORE TASK IS COMPLETE.” These printed reminders can function as accountability prompts, alerting personnel that a barrier 302a.nis missing from the kit and must be reinstalled prior to taskNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 completion. The visual contrast between installed and vacant locations can provide a rapid, intuitive indication of kit status, thereby reducing the likelihood that a protective barrier remains unaccounted for.

[0040] FIG. 4C depicts the protective barriers 302a.nafter being removed from the substrate 301 for use during an industrial operation. In this configuration, the substrate 301 can remain as an organizational base, clearly showing which protective barriers have been deployed. Because each barrier includes its own printed instruction and / or identifier, such as “REMOVE BEFORE FLIGHT,” the barriers themselves can serve as a secondary accountability system once installed on the asset 104. By combining the substrate-based accountability features of FIG. 4B with the barrier-level indicators of FIG. 4C, the kit 300 can provide redundant safeguards to ensure no protective barrier remains improperly installed after maintenance or inspection.

[0041] Referring now to FIG. 5, a perspective view of a protective barrier 502 of another kit 500 configured for use via the system 100 of FIG. 1 being removed is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. It shall be appreciated that the kit 500— and more specifically, the protective barrier 502 — can be similarly configured to those previously described herein. As depicted in FIG. 5, the protective barrier 502 can be selectively disengaged from its corresponding designated location 504 on a substrate 501 by a technician. The designated location 504 can include printed instruction text, such as “REINSTALL IN SHADOWED LOCATION,” configured to remain visible to the technician once the barrier has been removed. This instruction can serve as a reminder that the barrier 502 must be reinstalled into its designated location 504 of the substrate 501 after use, thereby enhancing accountability and reducing the likelihood of foreign object damage arising from a barrier left installed on the asset 104 (FIG. 1).

[0042] The designated location 504 can be geometrically configured to correspond to the outline of the protective barrier 502, thereby facilitating intuitive placement and retrieval. In some embodiments, the designated location 504 can further include printed instructions or shadowed graphics that become visible when the protective barrier 502 is removed, reinforcing the accountability function. The removal process depicted in FIG. 5 illustrates how the kit 500 can be configured to support straightforward deployment of protective barriers 502 during an industrial operation. The ergonomic shape of the protective barrier 502 and the flexibility of the substrate 301 can enable easy manual extraction by maintenance personnel. By combining the substrate-level accountability of the designated location 504 with the barrierlevel accountability of the printed instruction, the system can provide redundant safeguards that promote complete traceability and minimize oversight errors.

[0043] Accordingly, FIG. 5 demonstrates how the disclosed kit 500 can be configured to integrate ease of use with accountability mechanisms, ensuring that protective barriers 502Non-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 are both readily deployable and reliably tracked during maintenance, manufacturing, or inspection operations.

[0044] Referring now to FIG. 6, a flow diagram of a method 600 of reducing foreign object damage in an industrial environment is depicted in accordance with to at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. It shall be appreciated that the method 600 can be implemented using the systems and kits described herein, including their protective barriers and substrates. According to the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 6, the method 600 can include identifying 602 a kit of protective barriers to install onto an asset 104 based on an asset type and an industrial operation to be performed. For example, a kit may be selected based on whether the asset comprises an aircraft, vehicle, or industrial machine, and whether the industrial operation comprises a wash, painting, blasting, inspection, or other maintenance task. The identifying 602 step can further include selecting a kit having protective barriers geometrically configured for the asset’s specific openings, sensors, and other vulnerable components. The method 600 can further include removing 604 each protective barrier from its respective position on a kit substrate for installation onto the asset. As previously described, removing 604 a protective barrier can reveal underlying printed instructions at designated locations on the substrate, thereby providing a visual reminder that the protective barrier must later be returned.

[0045] In further reference to FIG. 6, the method 600 can further include installing 606 each protective barrier onto the asset based on a geometric correspondence between the protective barrier and a component of the asset. According to some non-limiting aspects, installing 606 each protective barrier onto the asset can be further based on printed instructions provided on the protective barrier itself. Proper installation requires that each protective barrier conforms securely to its respective component of the asset (e.g., intakes, exhausts, panels, or other features), thereby providing effective coverage and protection during the industrial operation. The method 600 can further include performing 608 the industrial operation on the asset after each protective barrier of the kit has been installed. For example, performing 608 a wash procedure can involve installed protective barriers preventing water, cleaning agents, and dislodged debris from entering sensitive components of the asset. The assed is fully protected from foreign object debris intrusion during the industrial operation via the high- visibility protective barriers, which ensure continuous awareness and visually command requiring removal before asset operation. After the industrial operation has completed, he protective barriers can be removed from the asset using the printed instructions, including task and location information for correct identification.

[0046] Still referring to FIG. 6, the method 600 can further include reinstalling 610 each protective barrier onto its designated location of the kit substrate after completion of the industrial operation. The shadowbox system provides immediate visual confirmation throughNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 kit serial number verification that all covers have been removed from equipment and properly accounted for. According to some non-limiting aspects, reinstallation can be based on printed instructions on the designated location of the substrate. For example, reinstallation can include correlating protective barrier identifying information a protective barrier to information on a designated location of a substrate of the kit. Reinstallation can further include returning each protective barrierto a geometrically corresponding designated location, thereby enabling quick reconciliation that all protective barriers have been removed from the asset and returned to the kit. For example, a technician may return the substrate with the protective barriers reinstalled to the tool control section, where it can be inspected for missing items and kit serial number verification, ensuring no protective barriers or other pieces of the kit are left on the asset.

[0047] According to some non-limiting embodiments, the method 600 can also include determining 612 whether the kit is reusable. If it is determined that the kit is disposable, the method 600 can include disposing 614 of the kit — or at least the protective barriers of the kit and retaining the substrate — after the industrial operation has been completed. If it is determined that the kit is reusable, the method 600 can include restocking 616 the kit by replacing consumable barriers, reconditioning materials, or otherwise preparing the kit for subsequent use. For example, the method 600 can further include documenting 618 performance of the industrial operation and / or use of the kit of protective barriers. However, even if the kit is determined to be reusable, the method 600 may further include determining whether each protective barrier of the kit has been used a number of times that meets or exceeds a predetermined, acceptable number of times. If so, the protective barrier and / or the kit may be disposed of. According to some aspects, documenting 618 can include recording serial numbers, task identifiers, and timestamps associated with barrier installation and removal, thereby ensuring accountability, traceability, and compliance with maintenance standards. However, according to other aspects, documenting 618 can be electronically and / or autonomously performed, for example, via one or more of the machine-readable codes (e.g., QR code, RFID tag) described herein. For example, upon reinstalling the protective barrier to its designated location on the substrate, an RFID reader on the designated location may scan an RFID tag on the protective barrier generating one or more signals to be processed and / or transmitted. Accordingly, an autonomous, digital record of which protective barriers have been used during the industrial operation and how many times each protective barrier has been used can be generated via the systems disclosed herein.

[0048] Referring now to FIG. 7, another kit 700 configured for use via the system 100 of FIG. 1 is depicted in accordance with at least one non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure. It shall be appreciated that the kit 700 — and more specifically, the protective barrier 702 — can be similarly configured to those previously described herein. However, as describedNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 below, the kit 700 of FIG. 7 can be further configured for electronic and / or autonomous tracking.

[0049] According to the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 7, the kit 700 can include a substrate 701 defining one or more designated locations 704 configured to receive a corresponding protective barrier 702. In some embodiments, the protective barrier 702 and the designated location 704 can each include corresponding sensors 703, 705 configured to digitally track the removal and reinstallation of the protective barrier 702. The designated location 704 can include a sensor (e.g., a corresponding scanner or reader) configured to detect when the protective barrier 702 is present or absent and generate signals associated with such detections. According to some aspects, the protective barrier 702 can include a machine-readable identifier such as a QR code, barcode, or radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag. In this manner, the substrate 701 can maintain an electronic record of protective barrier usage and kit completeness. Although QR codes, barcodes, and RFID technologies provide illustrative examples, other identification and sensing methods can be implemented. For example, the protective barrier 702 can include a near-field communication (“NFC”) chip configured to communicate with an NFC reader embedded in the designated location 704. In other embodiments, the protective barrier 702 can include a magnetic strip or Hall effect element configured to be detected by a magnetic sensor within the designated location 704. Still other embodiments can employ a light sensor or an optical recognition systems, wherein a printed identifier on the protective barrier 702 is detected by an imaging sensor integrated into the designated location 704.

[0050] The substrate 701 of the kit 700 of FIG. 7 can further include a control circuit 706, such as a processor, microcontroller, or logic-based device configured to monitor the state of each designated location 704. The control circuit 706 can be communicably coupled to a computing device 708, which can include, for example, a laptop, server, personal computer, or tablet located in a maintenance or stock room. In other embodiments, the computing device 708 can comprise a user’s mobile device, such as a smartphone running a dedicated application configured to interface with the control circuit 706. Through this configuration, the computing device 708 can receive data from the control circuit 706 indicating which protective barriers 702 have been removed, which barriers remain installed, and whether barriers have been returned to their designated locations 704. This electronic tracking capability can enhance accountability by ensuring that all protective barriers are accounted for before an asset 104 (FIG. 1) is returned to service. The system can further reduce foreign object damage risk by preventing inadvertent operation of the asset 104 with protective barriers still installed or missing from the kit 700.

[0051] In some embodiments, the computing device 708 can generate and store digital logs of protective barrier 702 usage, including timestamps, serial numbers, and task identifiers.Non-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627These logs can be integrated into broader maintenance management systems, tool-control frameworks, or regulatory compliance records. In further embodiments, alerts can be generated if a protective barrier 702 is not reinstalled into its designated location 704 after an industrial operation, thereby providing real-time error detection and corrective guidance. Accordingly, the electronic setup depicted in FIG. 7 can be configured to integrate physical protective barrier kits with digital accountability systems, thereby enhancing tracking, supporting standardized maintenance procedures, and reducing the risk of foreign object damage across aviation, industrial, and manufacturing environments. Moreover, the computing device 708 can either execute or access an end-user tool control tracking system that allows users to log the placement and removal of a plurality of kits 700, providing realtime updates and ensuring that all protective barriers 702 are retrieved after use. This system can be integrated with existing non-digital or digital platforms used by maintenance personnel, enhancing overall efficiency and reliability. By aligning with current tool control standards, the system can support compliance with established accountability and inventory management procedures. The digital tracking system can generate reports and alerts, facilitating audits and inspections to verify compliance with tool control and foreign object damage prevention protocols.

[0052] The disclosed devices, systems, and methods provide a comprehensive solution for reducing foreign object damage across aviation, industrial, and manufacturing environments. In certain embodiments, the protective barrier kits disclosed herein can integrate with manufacturing quality control systems through kit serial number tracking and electronic data capture, enabling complete traceability of protective material usage during critical assembly and maintenance operations. Integration with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) can be achieved by configuring the control circuit of the substrate to communicate real-time barrier usage events — such as removal, installation, and reinstallation — using standardized industrial communication protocols (e.g., OPC UA, Modbus TCP, or MQTT). The control circuit can transmit task identifiers, kit serial numbers, and timestamps to the MES, thereby enabling the MES to correlate protective barrier application directly with specific manufacturing steps or maintenance orders. This integration can ensure that protective covers are properly installed before a machining, washing, or coating step is executed, and can prevent subsequent process stages from being authorized until barrier removal and kit reconciliation are verified. Integration with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems can be accomplished by providing inventory and consumption data from the kit. For example, when a consumable kit is issued, used, and either disposed or restocked, the control circuit can transmit this transaction data via a network interface to the ERP system using standard data exchange formats such as XML or JSON over secure APIs. This enables ERP modules to update stock levels, forecast future demand, and track costs associated with protective barrier usage acrossNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 multiple facilities. By tying kit consumption to specific work orders, the ERP system can provide detailed cost attribution and support lean inventory management.

[0053] Integration with Quality Management Systems (QMS) can be achieved by storing barrier tracking data — including kit serial numbers, task identifiers, operator credentials, and timestamps — into a digital log that can be automatically synchronized with QMS databases. In one embodiment, each removal or reinstallation event can be signed with operator identification, creating a tamper-evident audit trail. QMS integration can therefore ensure that safety-critical steps, such as verifying that all protective barriers are removed before operation, are recorded in compliance with regulatory standards such as ISO 9001 , AS9100, or FDA cGMP.

[0054] The protective barriers themselves can include machine-readable identifiers such as QR codes, RFID tags, or NFC devices, which can be scanned via handheld devices or automated readers integrated with the MES, ERP, or QMS infrastructure. This multi-system integration enables a seamless flow of accountability data: the MES validates task execution sequencing, the ERP maintains cost and supply chain records, and the QMS ensures regulatory and quality compliance. Accordingly, the disclosed technology not only provides consumable protective barrier kits with orientation indicators, task identifiers, and shadowbox substrates for physical accountability, but also integrates directly into existing enterprise digital infrastructures. This dual physical-digital accountability approach can deliver complete kit traceability, automated quality control, real-time inventory management, and regulatory compliance documentation, thereby reducing foreign object damage risk, improving operational safety, and supporting optimization across industrial and manufacturing processes.

[0055] According to some embodiments, a kit configured to reduce foreign object damage to an asset during an industrial operation is disclosed. The kit includes a substrate, wherein the substrate defines a plurality of designated locations, and a plurality of protective barriers, wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is configured for installation on a different portion of the asset, wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is configured to protect the asset during the industrial operation when installed on the different portion of the asset, and wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is further configured for reinstallation into a geometrically corresponding location of the plurality of designated locations of the substrate.

[0056] According to some aspects, each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers includes a printed instruction associated with the industrial operation. According to some aspects, the printed instruction includes a serial number, a part number, a task identifier, a vehicle type, or date code, or combinations thereof. According to some aspects, each designated location of the plurality of designated locations includes a printed instructionNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 associated with a geometrically corresponding barrier of the plurality of protective barriers. According to some aspects, the printed instruction includes identifying information associated with the geometrically corresponding barrier of the plurality of protective barriers. According to some aspects, each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers includes a high- visibility marking configured to visually indicate presence of the protective barrier on the asset. According to some aspects, each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers includes a geometric feature configured to mechanically couple the protective barrier to the asset. According to some aspects, the geometric feature includes a compliant edge configured to conform to surface irregularities of the asset to improve sealing. According to some aspects, the geometric feature includes a mechanical interlock. According to some aspects, at least one protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers includes a material configured to resist degradation from a chemical, a fuel, ultraviolet radiation, an elevated temperature, or electrostatic discharge, or combinations thereof. According to some aspects, at least one protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers includes a semi-transparent material configured to facilitate visual inspection during installation and performance of the industrial operation. According to some aspects, at least one protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers includes a color changing material configured to change colors upon exposure to a pre-determined condition or contaminant. According to some aspects, each designated location of the plurality of designated locations includes a sensor configured to detect a presence or absence of a geometrically corresponding barrier of the plurality of protective barriers and generate signals associated with such detections. According to some aspects, the kit further includes a control circuit communicatively coupled to the sensor, wherein the control circuit is configured to receive the signals from the sensor, and wherein the control circuit is configured to maintain an electronic record of protective barrier usage and kit completeness based on the signals.

[0057] According to some embodiments, a method of reducing foreign object damage to an asset during an industrial operation is disclosed. The method can include identifying a kit of protective barriers to install onto an asset based on an asset type and an industrial operation to be performed on an asset, removing each protective barrier from their respective position on a kit substrate for installation onto the asset, installing each protective barrier onto the asset based on a geometric correspondence between the protective barrier and an asset component, performing the industrial operation on the asset after each protective barrier of the kit has been installed onto the asset, removing each protective barrier of the kit from the asset, and reinstalling each protective barrier onto its designated location of the kit substrate, wherein each protective barrier geometrically corresponds to its designated location.

[0058] According to some aspects, the method further includes determining the kit is reusable. According to some aspects, the method further includes determining that the kit hasNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 not exceeded a predetermined, acceptable number of uses, and restocking the kit for use during a subsequent industrial operation. According to some aspects, the method further includes determining if the kit is not reusable, and disposing of the kit to avoid inadvertent use during a subsequent industrial operation. According to some aspects, the method further includes generating, via one or more sensors, one or more signals upon reinstallation of each protective barrier onto its designated location.

[0059] According to some embodiments, a system configured to reduce foreign object damage to an asset during a multi-task industrial operation, the system including a plurality of substrates, wherein each substrate of the plurality of substrates is associated with a specific task of the multi-task industrial operation, and wherein each substrate of the plurality of substrates defines a plurality of designated locations, and a plurality of protective barriers, wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is configured for installation on a different portion of the asset, wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is configured to protect the asset during the multi-task industrial operation when installed on the different portion of the asset, and wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is further configured for reinstallation into a geometrically corresponding location of the plurality of designated locations of at least one substrate of the plurality of substrates.

[0060] All patents, patent applications, publications, or other disclosure material mentioned herein, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety as if each individual reference was expressly incorporated by reference respectively. All references, and any material, or portion thereof, that are said to be incorporated by reference herein are incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference and the disclosure expressly set forth in the present application controls.

[0061] The present invention has been described with reference to various exemplary and illustrative aspects. The aspects described herein are understood as providing illustrative features of varying detail of various aspects of the disclosed invention; and therefore, unless otherwise specified, it is to be understood that, to the extent possible, one or more features, elements, components, constituents, ingredients, structures, modules, and / or aspects of the disclosed aspects may be combined, separated, interchanged, and / or rearranged with or relative to one or more other features, elements, components, constituents, ingredients, structures, modules, and / or aspects of the disclosed aspects without departing from the scope of the disclosed invention. Accordingly, it will be recognized by persons having ordinary skill in the art that various substitutions, modifications or combinations of any of the exemplary aspects may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, thoseNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the various aspects of the invention described herein upon review of this specification. Thus, the invention is not limited by the description of the various aspects, but rather by the claims.

[0062] Those skilled in the art will recognize that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as "open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as "including but not limited to,” the term "having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles "a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to claims containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and / or "an” should typically be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations.

[0063] In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should typically be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g. , the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, typically means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and / or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that typically a disjunctive word and / or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms unless context dictates otherwise.Non-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627For example, the phrase “A or B” will be typically understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

[0064] With respect to the appended claims, those skilled in the art will appreciate that recited operations therein may generally be performed in any order. Also, although claim recitations are presented in a sequence(s), it should be understood that the various operations may be performed in other orders than those which are described or may be performed concurrently. Examples of such alternate orderings may include overlapping, interleaved, interrupted, reordered, incremental, preparatory, supplemental, simultaneous, reverse, or other variant orderings, unless context dictates otherwise. Furthermore, terms like “responsive to,” “related to,” or other past-tense adjectives are generally not intended to exclude such variants, unless context dictates otherwise.

[0065] It is worthy to note that any reference to “one aspect,” “an aspect,” “an exemplification,” “one exemplification,” and the like means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the aspect is included in at least one aspect. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one aspect,” “in an aspect,” “in an exemplification,” and “in one exemplification” in various places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same aspect. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more aspects.

[0066] As used herein, the singular form of “a”, “an”, and “the” include the plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0067] Directional phrases used herein, such as, for example and without limitation, top, bottom, left, right, lower, upper, front, back, and variations thereof, shall relate to the orientation of the elements shown in the accompanying drawing and are not limiting upon the claims unless otherwise expressly stated.

[0068] The terms “about” or “approximately” as used in the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, means an acceptable error for a particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which depends in part on how the value is measured or determined. In certain aspects, the term “about” or “approximately” means within 1 , 2, 3, or 4 standard deviations. In certain aspects, the term “about” or “approximately” means within 50%, 200%, 105%, 100%, 9%, 8%, 7%, 6%, 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, or 0.05% of a given value or range.

[0069] In this specification, unless otherwise indicated, all numerical parameters are to be understood as being prefaced and modified in all instances by the term “about,” in which the numerical parameters possess the inherent variability characteristic of the underlying measurement techniques used to determine the numerical value of the parameter. At the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scopeNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 of the claims, each numerical parameter described herein should at least be construed in light of the number of reported significant digits and by applying ordinary rounding techniques.

[0070] Any numerical range recited herein includes all sub-ranges subsumed within the recited range. For example, a range of “1 to 100” includes all sub-ranges between (and including) the recited minimum value of 1 and the recited maximum value of 100, that is, having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1 and a maximum value equal to or less than 100. Also, all ranges recited herein are inclusive of the end points of the recited ranges. For example, a range of “1 to 100” includes the end points 1 and 100. Any maximum numerical limitation recited in this specification is intended to include all lower numerical limitations subsumed therein, and any minimum numerical limitation recited in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limitations subsumed therein. Accordingly, Applicant reserves the right to amend this specification, including the claims, to expressly recite any subrange subsumed within the ranges expressly recited. All such ranges are inherently described in this specification.

[0071] Any patent application, patent, non-patent publication, or other disclosure material referred to in this specification and / or listed in any Application Data Sheet is incorporated by reference herein, to the extent that the incorporated materials is not inconsistent herewith. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

[0072] The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains” and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a system that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Likewise, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those one or more features but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features.

[0073] Instructions used to program logic to perform various disclosed aspects can be stored within a memory in the system, such as dynamic random-access memory (DRAM), cache, flash memory, or other storage. Furthermore, the instructions can be distributed via a network or by way of other computer readable media. Thus a machine-readable medium may include any mechanism for storing or transmitting information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a computer), but is not limited to, floppy diskettes, optical disks, compact disc, read-onlyNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 memory (CD-ROMs), and magneto-optical disks, read-only memory (ROMs), random-access memory (RAM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), magnetic or optical cards, flash memory, or a tangible, machine-readable storage used in the transmission of information over the Internet via electrical, optical, acoustical or other forms of propagated signals (e.g., carrier waves, infrared signals, digital signals, etc.). Accordingly, the non-transitory computer-readable medium includes any type of tangible machine-readable medium suitable for storing or transmitting electronic instructions or information in a form readable by a machine (e.g., a computer).

[0074] As used in any aspect herein, the term “control circuit” may refer to, for example, hardwired circuitry, programmable circuitry (e.g., a computer processor including one or more individual instruction processing cores, processing unit, processor, microcontroller, microcontroller unit, controller, digital signal processor (DSP), programmable logic device (PLD), programmable logic array (PLA), or field programmable gate array (FPGA)), state machine circuitry, firmware that stores instructions executed by programmable circuitry, and any combination thereof. The control circuit may, collectively or individually, be embodied as circuitry that forms part of a larger system, for example, an integrated circuit (IC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a system on-chip (SoC), desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet computers, servers, smart phones, etc. Accordingly, as used herein “control circuit” includes, but is not limited to, electrical circuitry having at least one discrete electrical circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one integrated circuit, electrical circuitry having at least one application specific integrated circuit, electrical circuitry forming a general purpose computing device configured by a computer program (e.g., a general purpose computer configured by a computer program which at least partially carries out processes and / or devices described herein, or a microcontroller configured by a computer program which at least partially carries out processes and / or devices described herein), electrical circuitry forming a memory device (e.g., forms of random access memory), and / or electrical circuitry forming a communications device (e.g., a modem, communications switch, or optical-electrical equipment). Those who have skill in the art will recognize that the subject matter described herein may be implemented in an analog or digital fashion or some combination thereof.

[0075] As used in any aspect herein, the term “logic” may refer to an app, software, firmware and / or circuitry configured to perform any of the aforementioned operations. Software may be embodied as a software package, code, instructions, instruction sets and / or data recorded on non-transitory computer readable storage medium. Firmware may be embodied as code, instructions or instructions sets and / or data that are hard-coded (e.g., nonvolatile) in memory devices.Non-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627

[0076] As used in any aspect herein, the terms “component,” “system,” “module” and the like can refer to a computer-related entity, either hardware, a combination of hardware and software, software, or software in execution.

[0077] As used in any aspect herein, an “algorithm” refers to a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result, where a “step” refers to a manipulation of physical quantities and / or logic states which may, though need not necessarily, take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. It is common usage to refer to these signals as bits, values, elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, or the like. These and similar terms may be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to these quantities and / or states.

[0078] A network may include a packet switched network. The communication devices may be capable of communicating with each other using a selected packet switched network communications protocol. One example communications protocol may include an Ethernet communications protocol which may be capable permitting communication using a Transmission Control Protocol / lnternet Protocol (TCP / IP). The Ethernet protocol may comply or be compatible with the Ethernet standard published by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) titled “IEEE 802.3 Standard,” published in December 2008 and / or later versions of this standard. Alternatively, or additionally, the communication devices may be capable of communicating with each other using an X.25 communications protocol. The X.25 communications protocol may comply or be compatible with a standard promulgated by the International Telecommunication Union-Telecommunication Standardization Sector (ITU-T). Alternatively, or additionally, the communication devices may be capable of communicating with each other using a frame relay communications protocol. The frame relay communications protocol may comply or be compatible with a standard promulgated by Consultative Committee for International Telegraph and Telephone (CCITT) and / or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Alternatively, or additionally, the transceivers may be capable of communicating with each other using an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) communications protocol. The ATM communications protocol may comply or be compatible with an ATM standard published by the ATM Forum titled “ATM-MPLS Network Interworking 2.0” published August 2001 , and / or later versions of this standard. Of course, different, and / or after-developed connection-oriented network communication protocols are equally contemplated herein.

[0079] Unless specifically stated otherwise as apparent from the foregoing disclosure, it is appreciated that, throughout the foregoing disclosure, discussions using terms such as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining,” “displaying,” or the like, refer to the action and processes of a computer system, or similar electronic computing device, thatNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 manipulates and transforms data represented as physical (electronic) quantities within the computer system’s registers and memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer system memories or registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices.

[0080] One or more components may be referred to herein as “configured to,” “configurable to,” “operable / operative to,” “adapted / adaptable,” “able to,” “conformable / conformed to,” etc. Those skilled in the art will recognize that “configured to” can encompass active-state components and / or inactive-state components and / or standby-state components unless context requires otherwise.

[0081] The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein with reference to a clinician manipulating the handle portion of the surgical instrument. The term “proximal” refers to the portion closest to the clinician and the term “distal” refers to the portion located away from the clinician. It will be further appreciated that, for convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical," “horizontal,” “up,” and “down” may be used herein with respect to the drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and / or absolute.

[0082] The examples presented herein are intended to illustrate potential and specific implementations of the present invention. It can be appreciated that the examples are intended primarily for purposes of illustration of the invention forthose skilled in the art. No embodiment or embodiments of the examples are necessarily intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Further, it is to be understood that the figures and descriptions of the present invention have been simplified to illustrate elements that are relevant for a clear understanding of the present invention, while eliminating, for purposes of clarity, other elements. While various embodiments have been described herein, it should be apparent that various modifications, alterations, and adaptations to those embodiments may occur to persons skilled in the art with attainment of at least some of the advantages. The disclosed embodiments are therefore intended to include all such modifications, alterations, and adaptations without departing from the scope of the embodiments as set forth herein.

Claims

Non-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:1 . A kit configured to reduce foreign object damage to an asset as a result of an industrial operation, the kit comprising: a substrate, wherein the substrate defines a plurality of designated locations; and a plurality of protective barriers, wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is configured for installation on a different portion of the asset, wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is configured to protect the asset during the industrial operation when installed on the different portion of the asset, and wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is further configured for reinstallation into a geometrically corresponding location of the plurality of designated locations of the substrate.

2. The kit of claim 1 , wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers comprises a printed instruction associated with the industrial operation.

3. The kit of claim 2, wherein the printed instruction comprises a serial number, a part number, a task identifier, a vehicle type, or date code, or combinations thereof.

4. The kit of claim 1 , wherein each designated location of the plurality of designated locations includes a printed instruction associated with a geometrically corresponding barrier of the plurality of protective barriers.

5. The kit of claim 3, wherein the printed instruction comprises identifying information associated with the geometrically corresponding barrier of the plurality of protective barriers.

6. The kit of claim 1 , wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers comprises a high-visibility marking configured to visually indicate presence of the protective barrier on the asset.

7. The kit of claim 1 , wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers comprises a geometric feature configured to mechanically couple the protective barrier to the asset.

8. The kit of claim 7, wherein the geometric feature comprises a compliant edge configured to conform to surface irregularities of the asset to improve sealing.Non-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 2506279. The kit of claim 7, wherein the geometric feature comprises a mechanical interlock.

10. The kit of claim 1 , wherein at least one protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers comprises a material configured to resist degradation from a chemical, a fuel, ultraviolet radiation, an elevated temperature, or electrostatic discharge, or combinations thereof.11 . The kit of claim 1 , wherein at least one protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers comprises a semi-transparent material configured to facilitate visual inspection during installation and performance of the industrial operation.

12. The kit of claim 1 , wherein at least one protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers comprises a color changing material configured to change colors upon exposure to a pre-determined condition or contaminant.

13. The kit of claim 1 , wherein each designated location of the plurality of designated locations comprises a sensor configured to detect a presence or absence of a geometrically corresponding barrier of the plurality of protective barriers and generate signals associated with such detections.

14. The kit of claim 13, further comprising a control circuit communicatively coupled to the sensor, wherein the control circuit is configured to receive the signals from the sensor, and wherein the control circuit is configured to maintain an electronic record of protective barrier usage and kit completeness based on the signals.

15. A method of reducing foreign object damage to an asset as a result of an industrial operation, the method comprising: identifying a kit of protective barriers to install onto an asset based on an asset type and an industrial operation to be performed on an asset; removing each protective barrier from their respective position on a kit substrate for installation onto the asset; installing each protective barrier onto the asset based on a geometric correspondence between the protective barrier and an asset component; performing the industrial operation on the asset after each protective barrier of the kit has been installed onto the asset; removing each protective barrier of the kit from the asset; andNon-Provisional Patent ApplicationAtty. Dkt. No.: 250627 reinstalling each protective barrier onto its designated location of the kit substrate, wherein each protective barrier geometrically corresponds to its designated location.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: determining the kit is reusable.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: determining that the kit has not exceeded a predetermined, acceptable number of uses; and restocking the kit for use during a subsequent industrial operation.

18. The method of claim 15, further comprising: determining the kit is not reusable; and disposing of the kit to avoid inadvertent use during a subsequent industrial operation.

19. The method of claim 15, further comprising: generating, via one or more sensors, one or more signals upon reinstallation of each protective barrier onto its designated location20. A system configured to reduce foreign object damage to an asset as a result of a multitask industrial operation, the system comprising: a plurality of substrates, wherein each substrate of the plurality of substrates is associated with a specific task of the multi-task industrial operation, and wherein each substrate of the plurality of substrates defines a plurality of designated locations; and a plurality of protective barriers, wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is configured for installation on a different portion of the asset, wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is configured to protect the asset during the multi-task industrial operation when installed on the different portion of the asset, and wherein each protective barrier of the plurality of protective barriers is further configured for reinstallation into a geometrically corresponding location of the plurality of designated locations of at least one substrate of the plurality of substrates.

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