U.S. patent application number 13/799259 was filed with the patent office on 2014-09-18 for feature guided profile restoration grinder apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to General Electric Company. The applicant listed for this patent is GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY. Invention is credited to Mark Carmine Bellino, Matthew Paul Berkebile, Eunice Delia Reyes.
Application Number | 20140273754 13/799259 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 50238171 |
Filed Date | 2014-09-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140273754 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bellino; Mark Carmine ; et
al. |
September 18, 2014 |
FEATURE GUIDED PROFILE RESTORATION GRINDER APPARATUS
Abstract
A surface machining mechanism modifies a repair segment of a
body having a contoured surface. The surface machining mechanism
includes a frame assembly and one or more guide members for
supporting the frame assembly on the contoured surface. The guide
members mate with the contoured surface and are movable along the
contoured surface to guide the frame assembly. A machining
apparatus is supported by the frame assembly. The machining
apparatus engages the repair segment of the body as the machining
apparatus is moved along the contoured surface. A method of
modifying a repair segment of a body having a contoured surface
with the surface machining mechanism is also provided.
Inventors: |
Bellino; Mark Carmine;
(Greenville, SC) ; Berkebile; Matthew Paul;
(Pooler, GA) ; Reyes; Eunice Delia; (Weslaco,
TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY |
Schenectady |
NY |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
General Electric Company
Schenectady
NY
|
Family ID: |
50238171 |
Appl. No.: |
13/799259 |
Filed: |
March 13, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
451/28 ;
451/344 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B24D 15/02 20130101;
B24B 27/033 20130101; B24B 19/009 20130101; B24B 27/0007 20130101;
B24B 41/02 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
451/28 ;
451/344 |
International
Class: |
B24B 19/00 20060101
B24B019/00; B24D 15/02 20060101 B24D015/02 |
Claims
1. A surface machining mechanism for modifying a repair segment of
a body having a contoured surface, the surface machining mechanism
including: a frame assembly; one or more guide members for
supporting the frame assembly on the contoured surface, the guide
members being configured to mate with the contoured surface and
being movable along the contoured surface to guide the frame
assembly; and a machining apparatus supported by the frame
assembly, the machining apparatus engaging the repair segment of
the body as the machining apparatus is moved along the contoured
surface.
2. The surface machining mechanism of claim 1, wherein the
contoured surface includes a plurality of grooves extending along
the body, wherein the guide members are configured to be received
within the grooves.
3. The surface machining mechanism of claim 2, wherein the
machining apparatus is configured to be received within one of the
plurality of grooves.
4. The surface machining mechanism of claim 3, wherein the guide
members are movable within the grooves to guide the frame
assembly.
5. The surface machining mechanism of claim 1, wherein the
contoured surface includes a plurality of ribs extending along the
body, wherein the ribs are configured to be received within
openings in the guide members.
6. The surface machining mechanism of claim 5, wherein the
machining apparatus is positioned adjacent and in contact with one
of the plurality of ribs.
7. The surface machining mechanism of claim 1, wherein the
machining apparatus is configured to machine the repair segment of
the body such that the repair segment matches the contoured
surface.
8. The surface machining mechanism of claim 1, wherein the one or
more guide members includes three guide members with one of the
guide members disposed at a first end of the frame assembly and the
remaining two guide members being disposed at an opposing second
end of the frame assembly.
9. The surface machining mechanism of claim 8, wherein the
machining apparatus is attached to the frame assembly at a location
between the first end and the second end of the frame assembly.
10. The surface machining mechanism of claim 1, wherein the
machining apparatus includes a grinding tool.
11. A surface machining mechanism for modifying a repair segment of
a body having a contoured surface, the surface machining mechanism
including: one or more guide members being configured to mate with
the contoured surface and being movable along the contoured
surface, wherein the guide members include a shape that is
configured to match a shape of the contoured surface; and a
machining apparatus supported by the one or more guide members, the
machining apparatus engaging the repair segment of the body as the
guide members are moved along the contoured surface.
12. The surface machining mechanism of claim 11, wherein the
contoured surface includes a plurality of grooves extending along
the body, wherein the guide members are configured to be received
within the grooves.
13. The surface machining mechanism of claim 12, wherein the
machining apparatus is configured to be received within one of the
plurality of grooves.
14. The surface machining mechanism of claim 11, wherein the
contoured surface includes a plurality of ribs extending along the
body, wherein the ribs are configured to be received within the
openings in the guide members.
15. The surface machining mechanism of claim 11, wherein the one or
more guide members includes three guide members with one of the
guide members disposed at a first end of the frame assembly and the
remaining two guide members being disposed at an opposing second
end of the frame assembly.
16. The surface machining mechanism of claim 15, wherein the
machining apparatus is attached to the frame assembly at a location
between the first end and the second end of the frame assembly.
17. The surface machining mechanism of claim 11, wherein the
machining apparatus includes a grinding tool.
18. A method of modifying a repair segment of a body having a
contoured surface, the method including the steps of: providing a
surface machining mechanism including one or more guide members for
mating with the contoured surface and a machining apparatus being
supported by the guide members; moving the guide members along the
contoured surface to guide the machining apparatus; and engaging
the repair segment of the body with the machining apparatus as the
guide members move along the contoured surface.
19. The method of claim 18, further including the step of modifying
the repair segment of the body to match the contoured surface after
engaging the repair segment with the machining apparatus.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein the surface machining mechanism
further includes a frame assembly supported by the guide members.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates generally to surface grinders,
and more particularly, to a feature guided profile restoration
grinder apparatus.
[0003] 2. Discussion of the Prior Art
[0004] Surface grinders are known and used in many different
applications. Surface grinders are used, for example, to grind or
machine a surface of an object so as to modify a repair segment
(e.g., weld repairs, abrasions, etc.). Surface grinders can be used
on both planar and non-planar surfaces. Non-planar surfaces can
include three-dimensional patterns or profiles. Restoring these
non-planar surfaces is time consuming and costly, as existing
surface grinders must be manually moved and operated along the
three-dimensional surface. Further, the repair segment of the
non-planar surface should be modified to substantially match the
contour (e.g., size and shape) of the surrounding non-repaired
surface. Accordingly, it would be beneficial to provide a grinder
apparatus that uses a non-repaired contoured segment as a guide for
restoring a repair segment.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The following presents a simplified summary of the invention
in order to provide a basic understanding of some example aspects
of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the
invention. Moreover, this summary is not intended to identify
critical elements of the invention nor delineate the scope of the
invention. The sole purpose of the summary is to present some
concepts of the invention in simplified form as a prelude to the
more detailed description that is presented later.
[0006] In accordance with one aspect, the present invention
provides a surface machining mechanism for modifying a repair
segment of a body having a contoured surface. The surface machining
mechanism includes a frame assembly and one or more guide members
for supporting the frame assembly on the contoured surface. The
guide members mate with the contoured surface and are movable along
the contoured surface to guide the frame assembly. A machining
apparatus is supported by the frame assembly. The machining
apparatus engages the repair segment of the body as the machining
apparatus is moved along the contoured surface.
[0007] In accordance with another aspect, the present invention
provides a surface machining mechanism for modifying a repair
segment of a body having a contoured surface. The surface machining
mechanism includes one or more guide members mating with the
contoured surface and being movable along the contoured surface.
The guide members include a shape that matches a shape of the
contoured surface. The surface machining mechanism further includes
a machining apparatus supported by the one or more guide members,
the machining apparatus engaging the repair segment of the body as
the guide members are moved along the contoured surface.
[0008] In accordance with another aspect, the present invention
provides a method of modifying a repair segment of a body having a
contoured surface. The method includes the steps of providing a
surface machining mechanism including one or more guide members for
mating with the contoured surface and a machining apparatus being
supported by the guide members. The method further includes the
step of moving the guide members along the contoured surface to
guide the machining apparatus and engaging the repair segment of
the body with the machining apparatus as the guide members move
along the contoured surface.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The foregoing and other aspects of the present invention
will become apparent to those skilled in the art to which the
present invention relates upon reading the following description
with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0010] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example body having a
contoured surface and a repair segment in accordance with an aspect
of the present invention;
[0011] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an example surface machining
mechanism provided on the body for restoring the repair segment to
match the contoured surface;
[0012] FIG. 3 is an end view of the example surface machining
mechanism in engagement with the contoured surface;
[0013] FIG. 4 is an end view of a second example surface machining
mechanism in engagement with a second example contoured
surface;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the example surface
machining mechanism in engagement with the contoured surface after
the surface machining mechanism has made a first pass over the
repair segment; and
[0015] FIG. 6 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 5, but with the
surface machining mechanism having fully restored the repair
segment to match the contoured surface.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0016] Example embodiments that incorporate one or more aspects of
the present invention are described and illustrated in the
drawings. These illustrated examples are not intended to be a
limitation on the present invention. For example, one or more
aspects of the present invention can be utilized in other
embodiments and even other types of devices. Moreover, certain
terminology is used herein for convenience only and is not to be
taken as a limitation on the present invention. Still further, in
the drawings, the same reference numerals are employed for
designating the same elements.
[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example body 10
having a contoured surface 12, according to one aspect of the
invention. In short summary, the body 10 can have a repair segment
24 that represents a weld repair, surface irregularity, or the
like. A surface machining mechanism 30 (shown in FIG. 2) is
provided to modify and restore the repair segment 24 to
substantially match the surrounding contoured surface 12. In short
summary, the surface machining mechanism 30 engages and moves along
the contoured surface 12 in a direction towards the repair segment
24. The surface machining mechanism 30 includes a machining
apparatus 50 that can engage (e.g., grind, cut, etc.) the repair
segment 24. As such, the surface machining mechanism 30 is guided
by the contoured surface 12 as the machining apparatus 50 modifies
and restores the shape of the repair segment 24 to match the
contoured surface 12.
[0018] The body 10 is shown to include a generally cylindrical
shape extending between opposing ends. It is to be appreciated that
the body 10 is generically/schematically depicted in FIG. 1 for
ease of illustration. In one example, the body 10 can include a
number of structures that are common in gas turbines. For example,
the body 10 can include combustion liners, combustion turbines, or
the like. As such, the body 10 shown in FIG. 1 includes only
possible structure, as the body 10 includes a number of sizes,
shapes, and configurations. Further, the body 10 is not limited to
the generally cylindrical shape as shown. Rather, the body 10 could
include a flat or substantially flat surface, a tubular shape,
conical shape, or the like. In addition, the body 10 is not limited
to being used in the above mentioned gas turbine environment, but,
instead, could be used in nearly any environment. As such, the body
10 includes any number of structures that have a surface on which
repairs (e.g., a welding repair, etc.) may be made.
[0019] The body 10 includes the contoured surface 12. The contoured
surface 12 defines an outer surface of the body 10 and extends
partially or completely along a length the body 10. In one example,
the contoured surface 12 includes a non-planar surface, such that
the contoured surface 12 includes undulations, grooves, ribs, or
the like. As is generally known, by providing the contoured surface
12 with undulations, grooves, ribs, or the like, the contoured
surface 12 assists in transferring heat to/from the body 10.
[0020] Referring now to FIG. 2, a portion of the body 10 is shown.
In this example, the contoured surface 12 of the body 10 includes a
diamond cross-hatch pattern. The diamond cross-hatch pattern has a
plurality of diamond shaped projections 13 that are separated by
one or more grooves 14 extending therebetween. The contoured
surface 12 includes the one or more grooves 14 extending along the
body 10. The grooves 14 define an indentation, depression, or the
like projecting into the surface of the body 10. The grooves 14 can
extend generally parallel to each other in a crisscross pattern
around the body 10. In one particular example, the grooves 14
include a V-shaped cross-section projecting into the body 10. Of
course, it is to be understood that the grooves 14 are not limited
to such a shape, and include any number of different sizes and
shapes, such as a square cross-section, rounded cross-section,
combinations of the aforementioned cross-sections, etc. In further
examples, it is to be appreciated that the contoured surface 12 is
not limited to having the diamond cross-hatch pattern shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2, and could include nearly any type of cross-hatch
pattern, such as a square cross-hatch pattern, circular cross-hatch
pattern, or the like.
[0021] The body 10 further includes the repair segment 24. It is to
be appreciated that the repair segment 24 is somewhat
generically/schematically depicted, as the repair segment 24
includes a number of different configurations. In some examples,
the repair segment 24 includes a weld repair, surface deformity,
surface irregularity, etc. Indeed, the repair segment 24 includes
nearly any type of surface irregularity in which the repair segment
24 does not match the shape of the contoured surface 12 (i.e., does
not have the diamond cross-hatch pattern with grooves 14). In one
possible example, a portion of the body 10 is welded to repair a
crack, defect, or the like. After the welding process occurs, the
location of the weld (corresponding to the repair segment 24) may
no longer match the shape of the contoured surface 12. This repair
segment 24 reduces the heat transfer efficiency of the body 10. As
such, restoring the repair segment 24 to match the shape of the
contoured surface 12 can improve heat transfer efficiency of the
body 10. The repair segment 24 includes any number of sizes and
shapes that may not match the contoured surface 12 including, but
not limited to, a substantially planar surface, a surface having
one or more raised undulations or projections, depressions, etc.
Similarly, the repair segment 24 could be formed at any number of
locations along the outer surface of the body 10, and is not
limited to the specific location shown in FIG. 2. Indeed, the
repair segment 24 includes one repair segment or, in the
alternative, a plurality of repair segments.
[0022] Referring still to FIG. 2, an example of the surface
machining mechanism 30 is shown in engagement with a portion of the
body 10. The surface machining mechanism 30 can be positioned at
nearly any location along the body 10. As such, the portion of the
body 10 shown in FIG. 2 is representative of nearly any portion of
the body 10 shown in FIG. 1. The surface machining mechanism 30 is
somewhat generically/schematically depicted in FIG. 2 for
illustrative purposes. In further examples, the surface machining
mechanism 30 is not limited to the shown structure, as the surface
machining mechanism 30 could take on a variety of constructions
(e.g., larger, smaller, etc.) in accordance with one or more
aspects of the present invention. Indeed, while only one surface
machining mechanism is shown and discussed herein, it is to be
understood that the discussion may be equally applicable to a
plurality of surface machining mechanisms.
[0023] The surface machining mechanism 30 includes a frame assembly
32. The frame assembly 32 is a generally elongate structure that
extends between a first end 34 and an opposing second end 36. In
the shown example, the frame assembly 32 includes a T-shaped body
portion 38. It is understood that the frame assembly 32 and
T-shaped body portion 38 are generically/schematically depicted in
FIG. 1 for illustrative purposes, as the frame assembly 32 includes
a number of shapes and constructions. For instance, the frame
assembly 32 need not be limited to the size and shape shown in FIG.
1 and, in other examples, the frame assembly 32 could be larger or
smaller than in the shown example. In a further example, the frame
assembly 32 could also include a variety of structures that improve
the gripping/handling of the surface machining mechanism 30. For
instance, the frame assembly 32 could include one or more handles,
gripping structures, or the like, that allow a user to grip and
more easily manipulate/move the surface machining mechanism 30. The
frame assembly 32 is also not limited to including the T-shaped
body portion 38, and includes any number of shapes, such as
polygonal shapes, circular shapes, etc.
[0024] The surface machining mechanism 30 further includes one or
more guide members 45 attached to the frame assembly 32. In one
example, three guide members are provided, with one guide member
being positioned at the first end 34 of the frame assembly 32 and
two of the guide members disposed at the opposing second end 36. Of
course, it is to be understood that more or fewer guide members can
be provided. Further, the guide members 45 could be provided in a
number of locations and need not be limited to the shown examples.
The guide members 45 could be arranged such that one or more guide
members are provided at the first end 34 while one or more guide
members are provided at the second end 36. Accordingly, it is to be
appreciated that the guide members 45 could be positioned at a
variety of locations, and the examples shown herein comprise merely
one possible configuration.
[0025] The guide members 45 are movably attached to the frame
assembly 32. In one example, the guide members 45 rotate with
respect to the frame assembly 32. The guide members 45 could be
provided with any number of structures that allow for rotation with
respect to the frame assembly 32, such as axles, drive shafts, ball
bearings, etc. As the frame assembly 32 is moved along the
contoured surface 12, the guide members 45 rotate while mating with
(e.g., received within) the grooves 14. As such, the guide members
45 support the frame assembly 32 on the contoured surface 12, and
guide the frame assembly 32 along the contoured surface 12. In
particular, the guide members 45 can support the frame assembly 32
a distance above the contoured surface 12, such that the frame
assembly 32 moves along the contoured surface 12.
[0026] Turning now to FIG. 3, an end view of the surface machining
mechanism 30 is shown from the second end 38 of the frame assembly
32. For ease of illustration, only three grooves are shown to be
positioned between opposing guide members. However, in further
examples, the guide members 45 could be spaced closer together
(i.e., with fewer grooves in between) or farther apart (i.e., with
more grooves in between). The guide members 45 are generally
circular in shape and have rounded ends. In one example, the guide
members 45 include wheels, or other circular components. The guide
members 45 have a width that is slightly smaller than a width of
the grooves 14. In such an example, the guide members 45 mate with
the contoured surface 12 by engaging the grooves 14 and are
received within the grooves 14. In particular, the guide members 45
are received within a first groove 14a and a second groove 14b. The
guide members 45 will engage and contact walls of the grooves 14,
such that the guide members 45 are guided by the grooves 14 as the
surface machining mechanism 30 moves along the contoured surface
12. It is to be understood that the guide members 45 are not
specifically limited to the size and shape that is shown in FIG. 3,
and could include a larger or smaller width than as shown.
[0027] Referring still to FIG. 3, the surface machining mechanism
30 further includes a machining apparatus 50 attached to the frame
assembly 32. The machining apparatus 50 is attached to the frame
assembly 32 at a location between the first end 34 and the opposing
second end 36. In further examples, the machining apparatus 50 is
not limited to such a position, and could be positioned closer to
the first end 34 or closer to the second end 36. The machining
apparatus 50 is thus supported with respect to the contoured
surface 12 by the frame assembly 32 and the guide members 45. The
machining apparatus 50 can be attached to the frame assembly 32 in
any number of ways. In one example, the machining apparatus 50 is
attached to a spindle, shaft, or the like that is movably attached
with respect to the frame assembly 32. In other examples, the
machining apparatus is attached by means of mechanical fasteners,
or the like. As will be described in more detail below, the
machining apparatus 50 can move, rotate, spin, etc., with respect
to the frame assembly 32. It is to be appreciated that the
machining apparatus 50 is not limited to including the spindle,
shaft, or the like, and that the machining apparatus 50 can include
nearly any structure that allows the machining apparatus 50 to
move, rotate, etc. with respect to the frame assembly 32.
[0028] The machining apparatus 50 includes a cutting tool 51. The
cutting tool 51 is formed of an abrasive and/or resilient material,
including steel, aluminum, or the like. In further examples, the
cutting tool 51 may include particles, abrasive compounds, or the
like that can assist in cutting, grinding, etc. It is to be
appreciated that the cutting tool 51 is not limited to the examples
described herein, as the cutting tool 51 can include nearly any
material that can be used to cut, grind, machine, etc. any number
of types of materials. Further, it is to be understood that the
cutting tool 51 is a broad term such that the function is not
limited to only cutting. Rather, the cutting tool 51 performs a
number of surface modifying/restoring operations, including, but
not limited to, cutting, grinding, sanding, material removing, etc.
The cutting tool 51 includes, for example, grinding tools, angle
grinders, end mills, cutters, etc.
[0029] The cutting tool 51 is positioned within one of the grooves
14 of the contoured surface 12. In one example, the cutting tool 51
is positioned within a third groove 14c that is positioned between
the first groove 14a and second groove 14b. The cutting tool 51 has
a shape that generally matches a shape of the grooves 14. In the
shown example, the cutting tool 51 includes a cutting surface 52
that is generally V-shaped. The V-shape of the cutting surface 52
substantially matches the size and shape of the groove 14 (e.g.,
V-shaped groove). In this example, the cutting surface 52 can be
slightly smaller in size than the grooves 14, such that the cutting
tool 51 is received within the grooves 14. As such, the cutting
surface 52 need not form-fit or press-fit against the grooves 14.
Such looseness allows for the cutting tool 51 to move (e.g., spin,
rotate, etc.) within the groove 14 while reducing the contact of
the cutting tool 51 with walls of the groove 14. It is to be
appreciated that the cutting tool 51 need not be limited to the
V-shape as shown in FIG. 2. Rather, in further examples, the
cutting tool 51 may have a size and shape that matches other sizes
and shapes of the groove 14, such as by having the cutting tool 51
include a generally rounded shape, square shape, or the like.
[0030] The machining apparatus 50 further includes a drive unit 53.
The drive unit 53 is somewhat generically/schematically depicted in
FIG. 3, as it is understood that the drive unit 53 includes a
number of different structures. The drive unit 53 is supported by
the frame assembly 32, such as by being attached to the frame
assembly 32. The drive unit 53 causes the cutting tool 51 to move.
In one example, the drive unit 53 includes a drive shaft that
provides rotational movement. The drive shaft extends from the
drive unit 53 and attaches to the cutting tool 51, such that the
cutting tool 51 can move (e.g., spin, rotate, etc.) with respect to
the drive unit 53. The drive unit 53 moves the cutting tool 51, so
as to cause rotation, spinning, or the like of the cutting tool 51.
The drive unit 53 can be powered by any number of power sources
including, but not limited to, an electric motor, compressed air,
an engine, or the like.
[0031] In operation, the machining apparatus 50 is brought into
contact with the repair segment 24. The cutting tool 51 is driven
and rotated by the drive unit 53. The cutting tool 51 will contact
the repair segment 24 and modify/restore the repair segment 24 by
cutting, grinding, sanding, etc. the repair segment 24. The cutting
tool 51 will therefore modify the repair segment 24 by removing any
extraneous material from the repair segment 24. The cutting tool 51
can therefore modify the repair segment 24 to substantially match
the shape of the contoured surface 12.
[0032] Referring now to FIG. 4, a second example of a surface
machining mechanism 130 is shown. In particular, an end view of the
surface machining mechanism 130 is shown from the second end 38 of
the frame assembly 32. In this example, the contoured surface 12 is
not limited to including the diamond cross-hatch pattern having
grooves 14. Instead, the contoured surface 12 can also include a
plurality of ribs 16. The ribs 16 extend circumferentially around
the outer surface of the body 10. The ribs 16 project radially
outwardly from the body 10, such that the ribs 16 define an outward
projection, protrusion, or the like. The ribs 16 can be separated
from each other such that a gap, space, or the like is positioned
between adjacent ribs 16. The ribs 16 extend generally parallel to
each other around the body 10. In further examples, the ribs 16 can
have a longer or shorter radial length (e.g., extending farther or
shorter from the outer surface), or could be wider or narrower in
width.
[0033] The surface machining mechanism 130 can be positioned at
nearly any location along the body 10. As with the example shown in
FIG. 3, the surface machining mechanism 130 is again somewhat
generically/schematically sized and shaped for illustrative
purposes. In further examples, however, the surface machining
mechanism 130 is not limited to the shown structure, and could take
on a variety of constructions (e.g., larger, smaller, etc.) in
accordance with one or more aspects of the invention.
[0034] The surface machining mechanism 130 includes the frame
assembly 32. The frame assembly 32 is identical to the frame
assembly 32 described above with respect to the surface machining
mechanism 30 in FIGS. 1 to 3. As such, the frame assembly 32 need
not be fully described again. In short summary, the frame assembly
32 of the surface machining mechanism 130 can include the T-shaped
body portion 38 extending between the first end 34 and second end
36.
[0035] The surface machining mechanism 130 further includes one or
more guide members 145. As with the example described above with
respect to the surface machining mechanism 30, three guide members
145 can be provided, with one guide member being disposed at the
first end 34 of the frame assembly 32 while two of the guide
members are disposed at the opposing second end 36. In further
examples, however, more or fewer guide members can be provided.
[0036] The guide members 145 can be movably attached to the frame
assembly 32. In one example, the guide members 145 rotate with
respect to the frame assembly 32. The guide members 145 can include
any number of structures that allow for rotation with respect to
the frame assembly 32, such as axles, drive shafts, ball bearings,
etc. As the frame assembly 32 is moved along the contoured surface
12, the guide members 145 rotate while engaging the contoured
surface 12. The guide members 145 are generally circular in shape
such that the guide members 145 can rotate and traverse along the
contoured surface 12. As such, the guide members 145 support the
frame assembly 32 on the contoured surface 12, and can guide the
frame assembly 32 along the contoured surface 12.
[0037] The guide members 145 each include an engagement portion
146. The engagement portion 146 extends circumferentially around an
outer surface of the guide members 145. The engagement portion 146
of each of the guide members 145 is sized and shaped to receive one
of the ribs 16. In one example, the engagement portion 146 defines
an indentation or groove that projects inwardly from the outer
circumferential surface of the guide members 145 towards a center
of the guide members 145. The engagement portion 146 has a size
(e.g., width and/or depth) that substantially matches a size of the
ribs 16, such that the engagement portion 146 of the guide members
145 can mate with the contoured surface 12. In particular, one of
the ribs is received within the engagement portion 146. It is to be
understood, however, that the engagement portion 146 could be
larger or smaller than as shown and is not specifically limited to
the size and shape of FIG. 4. In one particular example, the
engagement portion 146 is slightly larger in size than the ribs 16,
such that engagement portion 146 need not form-fit or press-fit
against the ribs 16. Such looseness minimizes friction between the
engagement portion 146 and the ribs 16. As such, the engagement
portion 146 moves (e.g., rotates) along the contoured surface 12
while being guided by the ribs 16.
[0038] The engagement portion 146 includes a generally V-shaped
cross-section. However, it is to be appreciated that the engagement
portion 146 need not be limited to such a shape. Rather, in further
examples, the engagement portion 146 can have a size and shape that
matches other sizes and shapes of the ribs 16, such as by having a
rounded-shaped cross-section, a square-shaped cross-section, or the
like.
[0039] Referring still to FIG. 4, the surface machining mechanism
130 further includes a machining apparatus 150. The machining
apparatus 150 can be attached to the frame assembly 32 in an
identical manner as described above with respect to the surface
machining mechanism 30. For example, the machining apparatus 150 is
attached along the frame assembly 32 at a location between the
first end 34 and the opposing second end 36. As such, the machining
apparatus 150 is supported with respect to the contoured surface 12
by the frame assembly 32 and the guide members 145. The machining
apparatus 150 can be attached to the frame assembly 32 in any
number of ways. In one example, the machining apparatus 150 is
attached to a spindle, shaft, or the like that is attached to the
frame assembly 32. In other examples, the machining apparatus is
attached by means of mechanical fasteners, or the like. As will be
described in more detail below, the machining apparatus 150 moves,
rotates, spins, etc., with respect to the frame assembly 32. It is
to be appreciated that the machining apparatus 150 is not limited
to including the spindle, shaft, or the like as the machining
apparatus 150 can include nearly any structure that allows the
machining apparatus 150 to move, rotate, etc. with respect to the
frame assembly 32.
[0040] The machining apparatus 150 further includes a cutting tool
151. The cutting tool 151 is positioned adjacent one of the ribs
16. The cutting tool 151 can be positioned in relatively close
proximity to the contoured surface 12 adjacent the ribs 16. It is
to be appreciated that the distance between the cutting tool 151
and ribs 16 shown in FIG. 4 is not to scale for illustrative
purposes and to more clearly depict the relative position of the
cutting tool 151 with respect to the rib 16. However, in operation,
the cutting tool 151 can be closer to both the contoured surface 12
and ribs 16. The cutting tool 151 can include a generally circular
shape that can move (e.g., spin, rotate, etc.) with respect to the
ribs 16. The cutting tool 151 is not limited to being positioned on
a side of the rib 16, and in further examples, could be adjusted in
position with respect to the ribs 16.
[0041] The machining apparatus 150 further includes the drive unit
53. The drive unit 53 is identical in structure and function to the
drive unit 53 described above with respect to the machining
apparatus 50. For example, the drive unit 53 is supported by the
frame assembly 32, such as by being attached to the frame assembly
32. The drive unit 53 includes a drive shaft that provides
rotational movement. The drive shaft could extend from the drive
unit 53 and attach to the cutting tool 151, such that the cutting
tool 151 moves (e.g., spin, rotate, etc.) with respect to the drive
unit 53. The drive unit 53 can be powered by any number of power
sources including, but not limited to, an electric motor,
compressed air, an engine, or the like.
[0042] The cutting tool 151 can be formed of an abrasive and/or
resilient material, including steel, aluminum, or the like. In
further examples, the cutting tool 151 may include particles,
abrasive compounds, etc. bonded or adhered to the machining
apparatus 150 to assist in grinding. The cutting tool 151 is not
limited to the examples described herein, as the cutting tool 51
can include nearly any material, such that the surface machining
mechanism 130 can be used to cut, grind, machine, etc. any number
of types of materials. Further, it is to be understood that the
cutting tool 151 is a broad term such that the function is not
limited to only cutting. Rather, the cutting tool 151 can perform
any number of surface modifying/restoring operations, including,
but not limited to, cutting, grinding, sanding, material removing,
etc.
[0043] In operation, the machining apparatus 150 is brought into
contact with the repair segment 24. In particular, the cutting tool
51 contacts the repair segment 24 and modifies the repair segment
24 by cutting, grinding, sanding, etc. the repair segment 24. The
cutting tool 51 therefore restores the repair segment 24 and
removes extraneous material from the repair segment 24. The cutting
tool 51 will modify and restore the repair segment 24 to
substantially match the shape of the contoured surface 12.
[0044] Turning now to FIGS. 5 and 6, the operation of the surface
machining mechanism 30, 130 can now be described in more detail. It
is to be appreciated that FIG. 5 depicts the surface machining
mechanism 30 described above with respect to FIGS. 2 and 3.
However, the surface machining mechanism 130 described with respect
to FIG. 4 can operate in a substantially identical manner.
Accordingly, the description of the operation with regard to FIGS.
5 and 6 is applicable to each of the surface machining mechanisms
30, 130 described herein.
[0045] Referring first to FIG. 5, the surface machining mechanism
30 is moved along the contoured surface 12 of the body 10. In
particular, the surface machining mechanism 30 is moved from the
position shown in FIG. 2, and over the repair segment 24. By moving
the surface machining mechanism 30 over the repair segment 24, the
machining apparatus 50 engages the repair segment 24 of the body
10. The cutting tool 51 moves (e.g., spins, rotates, etc.) as the
surface machining mechanism 30 is moved. As such, the cutting tool
51 engages the repair segment 24 and modifies the repair segment
24. In particular, since the cutting tool 51 matches a size and
shape of one of the grooves 14, the cutting tool 51 can remove
material from the repair segment 24 and modify the shape of the
repair segment 24 to match the remaining grooves 14.
[0046] The surface machining mechanism 30 can be moved one or more
times over the repair segment 24. In some examples, the surface
machining mechanism 30 can make a single pass over the repair
segment 24, which modifies the repair segment 24 to match the
remaining grooves 14. In other examples, it may be necessary for
the surface machining mechanism 30 to make multiple passes back and
forth over the repair segment 24. This may be due, at least in
part, to larger and/or denser repair segments. At the position
shown in FIG. 5, the surface machining mechanism 30 has made at
least one pass over the repair segment 24. Indeed, after this at
least one pass, the repair segment 24 may be slightly modified, but
may not completely match the remaining grooves 14 (i.e., see the
partially modified contour of the repair segment 24 in FIG. 5). In
such an example, it may be necessary to make another pass of the
surface machining mechanism 30 over the repair segment 24. Indeed,
the surface machining mechanism 30 can be moved along a first
direction 80 towards the repair segment 24. To make a subsequent
pass, the surface machining mechanism 30 could be moved along a
direction that is opposite from the first direction 80 (e.g., a
second direction 81 shown in FIG. 2).
[0047] Referring now to FIG. 6, the surface machining mechanism 30
is shown after the requisite number of passes have been made over
the repair segment 24. In this example, the repair segment 24 is
not shown, as the repair segment 24 has been fully modified so as
to match the contoured surface 12. It is to be appreciated that
while the repair segment 24 is not shown in FIG. 6, in other
examples, traces or remnants of the repair segment 24 may be left
over even after the modification has been completed. In such
examples, the repair segment 24 may still be slightly visible even
while substantially matching the shape of the contoured surface 12.
Accordingly, even after the surface machining mechanism 30 has
finished modifying the repair segment 24, an exact match of the
repair segment 24 and the contoured surface 12 need be
provided.
[0048] The examples shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 depict the surface
machining mechanism 30 remaining within one set of grooves 14.
However, in further examples, the repair segment 24 may be wider
than as shown, such that the repair segment 24 extends over a
plurality of adjacent grooves 14. In such an example, the surface
machining mechanism 30 can make the requisite number of passes over
the repair segment 24 within one of the grooves 14. After the
modification of the repair segment 24 within this groove has been
completed, the surface machining mechanism 30 may be moved (e.g.,
lifted and removed from the groove 14) and replaced in one of the
adjacent grooves 14. The surface machining mechanism 30 can then
move along this adjacent groove for the requisite number of passes
over the repair segment 24. This process of moving the surface
machining mechanism 30 to adjacent grooves 14 can be continued
until all or substantially all of the repair segment 24 has been
modified to substantially match the contoured surface 12.
[0049] The invention has been described with reference to the
example embodiments described above. Modifications and alterations
will occur to others upon a reading and understanding of this
specification. Example embodiments incorporating one or more
aspects of the invention are intended to include all such
modifications and alterations insofar as they come within the scope
of the appended claims.
* * * * *