Automated Airfoil Inspection System

ABSTRACT:Inspection of inserted compressor blades is difficult due to the complicated geometry of the blades, the need for high accuracy, and the safety risk posed by undetected cracks. At present, the time and cost associated with airfoil inspection forces many parts to be condemned and replaced after limited service. Creare proposes to develop an Automated Airfoil Inspection System (AAIS) that provides fast, highly accurate, and cost effective inspection. Our system combines automated part handling, measurement of key dimensions, novel capabilities to assess tip and leading edge wear, and highly sensitive crack detection to address the needs of the Air Force. During Phase I, we will demonstrate key elements of the system, characterize system performance on representative parts, and develop a design for the system to be developed during Phase II. During Phase II we plan to develop a fully functional system to enable the Air Force to evaluate use of the system in an operational setting. BENEFIT:The technology developed on this project will provide a new capability for rapid inspection of jet engine compressor blades for both military and commercial sectors.