Mar 3 2011
Scientific Applications and Research Associates (SARA) has developed an optical system with patented software called the Dynamic Automated Visual Inspection System (DAVIS).
DAVIS can precisely monitor laser drilled holes and control numerous laser drilling workstations.
The optical system is developed to assess the data, gauge hole sizes and integrate with a laser drilling system in real time to control the hole sizes.
An image acquisition device corresponds with the laser drilling solution and modifies the laser parameters to alter the size of the subsequent holes to be bored by the laser system. The ensuing cooling air flow is thus controlled dynamically to maintain the required range of tolerances. After hole drilling, the total estimated airflow for blades and vanes is predicted and matched to the required final air flow.
The ‘drilling on the fly’ method is utilized for combustors and other components. In this method, once the drilling of each row of holes is completed, the modification signal is communicated to the laser system to alter the laser parameter for the subsequent row of holes. This innovative method makes the quality control and inspection functions to happen automatically and concurrently during production. This reduces the overall cycle time by 50% and the total cooling air flow is anticipated to maintain within ±2.5% of required final flow.