Engine Servicing Workscope Using Robotic On-Wing Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for servicing gas turbine engines require costly and time-consuming disassembly and inspection, limiting efficiency and increasing maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of robotic assemblies capable of autonomous or semi-autonomous servicing operations, including inspection and repair, which utilize machine-learned models and augmented reality to re-anchor analytics and create dynamic workscopes, allowing for on-wing maintenance and improved efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional disassembly and inspection methods are used, then thorough inspection and repair can be performed, but the process becomes costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary inspection using sensors and imaging devices before disassembly to identify specific components requiring attention, allowing targeted rather than comprehensive disassembly. This preliminary assessment enables the maintenance team to prepare appropriate tools and procedures in advance, reducing actual maintenance time while maintaining inspection quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates digital twins and 3D models of the equipment that replicate physical components. These virtual copies allow for virtual inspection, simulation of disassembly procedures, and planning of maintenance operations without physically disassembling the actual equipment, significantly reducing maintenance time while preserving inspection thoroughness.
2Reliability
If traditional disassembly and inspection methods are used, then thorough inspection and repair can be performed, but the process becomes costly
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs multi-functional maintenance robots and inspection devices that can perform multiple tasks including visual inspection, thermal imaging, vibration analysis, and minor repairs. This consolidation of multiple specialized tools into universal platforms reduces equipment costs and eliminates the need for multiple specialized technicians, lowering overall maintenance expenses while maintaining comprehensive inspection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements autonomous self-diagnosis and self-inspection capabilities where the equipment monitors its own condition using integrated sensors and diagnostic algorithms. This self-service approach eliminates or reduces the need for external inspection teams and their associated costs, while maintaining continuous monitoring and high inspection quality through automated data collection and analysis.
3Productivity
If robotic assemblies are implemented for autonomous servicing, then on-wing maintenance and efficiency are improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex robotic maintenance system is divided into modular functional units including inspection modules, manipulation modules, navigation modules, and communication modules. Each module performs a specific function and can be independently configured, tested, and maintained. This segmentation reduces overall system complexity by breaking down the autonomous servicing robot into manageable components while maintaining high productivity through coordinated operation of these specialized modules.
Data Source
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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.