Gas Turbine Engine Servicing Using Condition Profile Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for servicing gas turbine engines, such as inspection and repair, require the engine to be uninstalled and disassembled, which is costly and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for servicing engines that involves receiving an initial condition profile, forming a workscope, servicing the engine, updating the condition profile based on acquired information, and storing the updated profile for subsequent service operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional inspection and repair methods are used, then thorough servicing can be achieved, but the process becomes costly and time-consuming due to engine uninstallation and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing the original condition of the engine before servicing and creating a detailed condition profile. This preliminary documentation enables subsequent comparison to detect changes, allowing thorough inspection without complete disassembly. The condition capture system records baseline data that serves as reference for future comparisons.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the engine's condition through condition profiling. Instead of physically disassembling the engine to inspect components, the system captures and stores a comprehensive condition profile that replicates the essential state of the engine. This digital copy enables repeated analysis and comparison without physical intervention.
2Reliability
If traditional inspection and repair methods are used, then thorough servicing can be achieved, but the process becomes costly and time-consuming due to engine uninstallation and disassembly
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a digital copy of the engine's condition through condition profiling. Instead of physically disassembling the engine to inspect components, the system captures and stores a comprehensive condition profile that replicates the essential state of the engine. This digital copy enables repeated analysis and comparison without physical intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces mechanical inspection methods (disassembly, physical examination of components) with automated sensing and data processing systems. Sensors and imaging devices capture condition data, which is then analyzed by processing systems to detect changes and identify issues, substituting manual mechanical inspection with automated electronic systems.
3Reliability
If complete servicing queues are performed, then comprehensive maintenance is achieved, but the process takes excessive time and resources
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by comparing condition profiles to identify only the specific changes that occurred since the last service. Instead of performing a complete re-inspection of all components, the system focuses analysis on detected deviations from the original condition, performing only the necessary level of inspection required to identify actual changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback by comparing the current condition profile against the original condition profile and using the results to guide subsequent servicing actions. The comparison results provide feedback on what has changed, enabling targeted maintenance decisions and adjusting future workscopes based on actual condition changes rather than predetermined complete inspection lists.
4Measurement precision
If traditional disassembly methods are used to access components, then inspection accuracy is improved, but the complexity and time of the process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical inspection methods (disassembly, physical examination of components) with automated sensing and data processing systems. Sensors and imaging devices capture condition data, which is then analyzed by processing systems to detect changes and identify issues, substituting manual mechanical inspection with automated electronic systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by capturing the original condition of the engine before servicing and creating a detailed condition profile. This preliminary documentation enables subsequent comparison to detect changes, allowing thorough inspection without complete disassembly. The condition capture system records baseline data that serves as reference for future comparisons.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer implemented method for servicing an engine including receiving information including an initial condition profile, CP1, of the engine; forming a workscope associated with a servicing operation of the engine in view of the initial condition profile, CP1; servicing the engine in view of the workscope; determining at least in part an updated condition profile, CP2, of the engine in view of information acquired during the service; and storing the updated condition profile, CP2, for use in a subsequent service operation.