Variable Focus Optical Inspection for In-Situ Turbine Component Repair

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed focal plane optical structure into a variable focal plane structure. The optical system can dynamically adjust its focal plane position to match different component depths, allowing features at various distances from the optical probe to remain in focus. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction by maintaining measurement precision across different depths without significantly increasing device complexity.

The patent implements parameter changes by varying the focal plane position parameter of the optical structure. Instead of maintaining a fixed focal distance, the system adjusts the focal plane parameter to correspond with the depth of different component features being inspected. This parameter adjustment enables accurate optical interrogation of features at multiple depths while keeping the optical structure relatively simple.

The patent applies the self-service principle by enabling repair operations to be performed in-situ within the power generation apparatus without requiring disassembly. The optical system and repair tools are introduced through existing access points, allowing the component to be repaired in its original location and operational context, thus eliminating downtime associated with disassembly and reassembly.

The patent implements preliminary action by performing inspection and repair operations before the power generation apparatus needs to be taken offline for extended periods. By using in-situ repair capabilities, maintenance can be performed during shorter shutdown windows or even during operational transitions, preventing the need for lengthy disassembly and reassembly cycles.

The patent applies dynamics by making the focal plane position adjustable rather than fixed. The optical system can dynamically shift its focal plane to match different distances from the probe, allowing high-resolution inspection of features whether they are close to or far from the optical probe. This dynamic focal adjustment maintains measurement precision across a versatile inspection range.

The patent implements universality by designing an optical system that can effectively inspect features at multiple distances from the probe. The variable focal plane capability allows the same optical probe to accurately interrogate both near-field and far-field features, making the inspection system universally applicable to diverse component geometries and defect locations without requiring multiple specialized probes.