JENTEK SENSORS, INC. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: AF151-054

Description

ABSTRACT: This proposed SBIR will demonstrate the feasibility of delivering a revolutionary integrated inspection station for engine airfoils that uses the same advanced eddy current technology (called the JENTEK MWM-Array) to provide BOTH reliable crack detection and dimensional analysis for chord width and tip wear. By utilizing the same flexible and easily adaptable sensing technology, a low cost, and reconfigurable inspection station will be demonstrated with extremely rapid inspection capabilities. This solution will enable rapid tool changing with easily interchangeable part holding and integrated scanning kits for each of the 143 part numbers that require inspection. It will also provide dramatically improved inspection speeds compared to conventional eddy current methods, enabling the required inspection of 190,000 parts per year. The Phase I will develop the 3-D dimensioning capability and demonstrate an integrated crack detection and dimensional measurement capability on two blade geometries. Phase I will also demonstrate the feasibility of addressing the large number of Air Force part numbers with an innovative automated inspection station design concept. Furthermore, crack depth measurement capability, already in use by the Navy to qualify blades for repair, will be incorporated to trigger repair actions, and eventually to qualify repairs as well. BENEFIT: It is anticipated that many Air Force and Navy legacy propulsion systems would benefit from the engine airfoil integrated inspection stations to be developed under this proposed program. The technology will be demonstrated to the Air Force, Navy, and DoD suppliers to solicit interest, funding, and system purchases for production, and depot, and field use. Rolls Royce and other engine OEMs, as well as PAS and other blade maintenance and repair providers have expressed strong interest in a rapid inspection system for blades and capability to reliably provide dimensioning, defect detection and sizing and repair qualification capabilities.