iGrab™ Vacuum Articulating FOSAR 1/2-inch Diameter Tool

Challenge  Retrieval tools are ideal devices for retrieving foreign object debris (FOD) in areas that are not easily accessible. FOD can be anything from tiny granules or buildup to midsized metal shavings or screws to large wrenches or tools that were dropped during a maintenance procedure. Due to the various types of FOD, there are different retrieval tools and jaws specialized to remove the specific FOD in a reliable, safe manner.  In this situation, an aerospace and aviation customer specializing in manufacturing and maintenance needed a retrieval tool to remove small granular buildup from turbines and jet engines during maintenance and repair overhaul (MRO) procedures. Development This application mandated the need for a foreign object search and retrieval (FOSAR) tool that would allow the operator to illuminate and see the FOD being retrieved. The device also required enough tensile strength to be pushed through the narrow passageways while still being able to articulate at the t