Encoder Frame for Gas Turbine Component Location
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accurate determination of the location of an object relative to a component in gas turbine engines is challenging due to complex geometries and the need for precise inspection of defects like scratches and contamination, which can lead to component failure.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a frame with coupled encoders that generate signals representing the object's location, allowing for accurate and repeatable determination of the object's position relative to the component, enabling in-situ inspection and operation by a single person, regardless of the component's geometry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional inspection methods are used on complex geometry components, then inspection can be performed, but location determination accuracy deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the measurement task into multiple independent encoder measurements taken from different known positions on the frame. Each encoder provides local position data relative to the frame, and these segmented measurements are combined through coordinate transformation to achieve accurate global location determination on complex surfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame acts as an intermediary reference structure between the inspection device and the component. By coupling encoders to the frame and knowing the frame's positional relationship to the component, the system mediates the measurement process, enabling accurate location determination even on complex geometries through coordinate transformation.
2Reliability
If components are removed from their systems for inspection, then thorough inspection can be performed, but maintenance time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables in-situ inspection by providing all necessary measurement capabilities directly at the component location through the frame and encoder assembly. The inspection device can perform thorough inspections without removing components from their systems, allowing the system to serve itself by eliminating the need for disassembly and reassembly operations.
3Ease of operation
If multiple people are required to operate the inspection device, then operational stability improves, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The frame serves multiple functions: it provides a stable reference structure for coupling encoders, establishes known positional relationships to the component, and supports the inspection device. This multi-functional design enables a single operator to perform stable, repeatable measurements without requiring additional personnel for setup or reference management.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for determining a location of an object relative to a component includes providing a frame. The method further includes coupling a plurality of encoders to the frame. The plurality of encoders is configured to generate a plurality of encoder signals. Each encoder signal from the plurality of encoder signals is representative of a location of the object relative to the respective encoder. The method further includes removably attaching the frame to the component. The method further includes receiving the plurality of encoder signals from the plurality of encoders. The method further includes determining a location of the object relative to the component based on the plurality of encoder signals.