Rapid Advanced Optical Scanner

To address the Navys need for a rapid measurement technology for high-curvature surfaces such as compressor airfoils and integrally bladed rotors (IBRs), Physical Optics Corporation (POC) plans to continue the development of a new Rapid Advanced Optical Scanner (RAOS). The RAOS solution is based on a new optical module design that inspects surfaces illuminated by a shaped laser beam. The RAOS employs efficient image processing software and 3D point-cloud analysis algorithms that POC has developed previously. The innovation in the optical module design and image processing will enable the RAOS system to inspect high-curvature surfaces with polished finishes. POC has already demonstrated RAOS capabilities of mapping an entire surface of an airfoil with high accuracy. In Phase I, POC demonstrated the feasibility of RAOS by performing profile measurements on a single blade on a Navy IBR sample and other objects with known high-curvature geometry, achieving technology readiness level (TRL)-3. In Phase II, POC plans to enhance and optimize the technology to meet all of the Navys requirements and reach TRL-5. POC will also engage an original equipment manufacturing (OEM) partner in Phase II to ensure that technical and transition risks are mitigated.