Inflatable device with guiding mechanism for effective engine cleaning
US11506077B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 4, 2021 |
| Grant date | Nov 22, 2022 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 4, 2041 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF05D2300/501
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An inflatable device equipped with a guiding mechanism and methods of installing the inflatable device to form a temporary barrier within a gas turbine engine are provided. In one aspect, an inflatable device includes a backbone and an inflatable bladder connected thereto. The backbone is formed of a flexible and inextensible material. The inflatable bladder is formed of an expandable material. To install the inflatable device within an annular chamber of a gas turbine engine, the backbone is inserted into a first access port of the engine and is moved circumferentially around the annulus of the chamber. The backbone is retrieved through a second access port. The inflatable bladder is moved into position within the chamber by pushing the backbone into the first access port and/or pulling the backbone out of the second access port. When positioned in place, the inflatable bladder is inflated to form an annular seal.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.