Improvement in inspection methods for aero-engine components using computer-linked electro-optical techniques

An improved technique for inspecting aero-engine turbine blades was developed. The technique increased the area of the blade that was examined and presented the difference information in an easily assimilated form without increasing the overall inspection time above that of present methods. To achieve this an optical contouring technique was used to measure the blade shape and this was linked to a computer to enable the dimensional information to be processed quickly. [Continues.]