Ultrasonic detection device and ultrasonic detection method

Abstract

The present invention relates to an ultrasonic detection device, which includes: an ultrasonic generator and receiver, which are rotatably supported within a housing; an adjustment device, which is attached to the ultrasonic generator and receiver to rotate the ultrasonic generator and receiver, thereby adjusting the incident angle of the ultrasonic waves emitted by the ultrasonic generator and receiver; and a laser, which is attached to the housing and emits a laser beam with an adjustable beam angle, wherein the beam angle emitted by the laser is configured to change in accordance with the incident angle of the ultrasonic generator and receiver. This ultrasonic detection device has an adjustable ultrasonic incident angle and has the functions of real-time laser positioning and linking the laser indication position with the incident angle. This eliminates the need for repeated confirmation of probe placement, frequent replacement of probes with different angles, or customization of special probes, thereby reducing detection time and economic costs and improving detection efficiency and accuracy. The present invention also relates to an ultrasonic detection method.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an ultrasonic detection device and an ultrasonic detection method. Background Art

[0002] Ultrasonic shear wave testing is commonly used to detect internal defects in flat-plate structural components on in-service aircraft, such as fatigue damage (e.g., cracks) at the edges of fastener holes at the joints of outer wing skins and the butt-strap plates of center wings. During testing, ultrasonic waves are incident at a specific angle into the interior of a workpiece (e.g., a flat workpiece). The waves are reflected sequentially from the upper and lower surfaces of the workpiece and propagate forward. When they encounter an interface perpendicular to the propagation direction, different echo signals are generated. By observing these echo signals, inspectors can determine whether cracks are present within the structural component.

[0003] The key to accurately detecting cracks with this ultrasonic testing method is to precisely propagate the ultrasonic wave to the inspection area and to align the propagation direction with the crack's propagation direction. However, the placement of the probe (or ultrasonic detection device) on the workpiece and the angle of the probe element determine whether the ultrasonic wave can accurately propagate perpendicularly to the main crack in the inspection area.

[0004] In current testing methods, in order to accurately transmit ultrasonic waves to the edges of fastener holes to be inspected in structures such as skins and strips, it is usually necessary to select a probe with a specific chip angle in advance based on on-site in-situ testing conditions (including the geometric shape of the workpiece and the space available for placing the probe on the workpiece surface).

[0005] In addition, it is necessary to estimate the horizontal distance (span) that the ultrasonic primary, secondary, or multiple waves propagate in order to initially locate the approximate placement of the probe. The probe is then repeatedly moved forward, backward, left, and right at that location while observing the echo signal displayed on the display to determine the probe's position. This allows the ultrasonic wave to propagate precisely in a specific direction to the area to be inspected. If the crack initiation location, spatial region, or structural characteristics of the workpiece change, it may be necessary to replace multiple ultrasonic probes with different wafer angles for inspection.

[0006] Ultrasonic waves are mechanical vibrations that cannot be observed directly with the naked eye. However, in-service aircraft, there are large areas requiring ultrasonic testing in sections such as the outer wings, center wings, and fuselages. These include metal structural components such as skins, butt straps, and rear beam webs. These areas often require testing in a variety of fastener holes, with a large number of holes arranged in various ways, with varying hole sizes and connection types.

[0007] Therefore, ultrasonic testing requires extensive calculations, repeated verification of probe placement, and frequent changes of probe angles to ensure that the ultrasonic wave propagates precisely to the edge of the fastener hole under inspection, perpendicular to the main crack. Furthermore, after changing probes, the instrument must be repeatedly debugged and calibrated, which is time-consuming. Furthermore, the wide variety of probes used increases the cost of purchasing and managing probes for airlines, which in turn increases aircraft operating and maintenance costs.

[0008] In a Chinese utility model patent application filed on January 14, 2020, with application number 202020081164.2 by Jiaxing First Hospital, a straight-line laser-assisted ultrasound probe positioning device is disclosed. The device comprises a fixing clamp, an auxiliary positioning device mounted on the clamp, and a puncture needle positioning device. The laser positioning light on the auxiliary positioning device emits a fan-shaped infrared light plane, which illuminates the patient's skin as a straight-line infrared light line. This infrared light guides the puncture needle, improving the accuracy and efficiency of the puncture. This utility model relates to the field of medical devices and primarily locates the puncture site by adjusting the angle of infrared light. It does not achieve autonomous laser positioning and is distinct from the type and display mode of ultrasound used in industry. Therefore, this ultrasound probe positioning device and ultrasonic testing equipment are not suitable for aircraft in-situ inspection.

[0009] In the Chinese invention patent application number 202211206240.1 filed by Changchun Institute of Technology on September 30, 2022, a follow-up coupling and attitude adjustment device for an ultrasonic guided wave probe for laser weld detection is disclosed. The device is fixed to the motion mechanism of the laser welding equipment via the flange of the connecting seat. The connecting seat transmits the clamping force to the workpiece surface through the compression spring, retaining frame, flip frame, rolling core shaft, and flexible coupling wheel, ensuring that the flexible coupling wheel fits well with the workpiece surface and provides an ultrasonic coupling path for the ultrasonic piezoelectric crystal inside it and the workpiece being measured. This invention belongs to the field of welding process control. The probe angle is adjusted by driving the gear to adjust the flip frame, but it cannot indicate the position of shear wave propagation during flat workpiece detection. Moreover, the type of ultrasonic wave used in this device and its application scenario are not suitable for in-situ detection of aircraft.

[0010] In a Chinese invention patent application filed on April 3, 2015, with application number 201510158679.1 by Shanghai Hewu New Materials Technology Co., Ltd., a device for positioning an ultrasonic probe using a laser pointer is disclosed. The device comprises a test water tank, a probe column, an ultrasonic probe fixed at the lower end of the column, and a laser pointer fixed at the upper end of the column. The center of the workpiece is determined by the center of the laser pointer's crosshairs or other positioning mark for initial positioning. The probe's scanning range is then determined by the relative coordinates of the laser pointer and the probe. This invention relates to the field of underwater ultrasonic testing and is used for positioning underwater ultrasonic probes. The laser pointer's direction is fixed and can only indicate the location of the sound waves emitted by the longitudinal wave probe. This device cannot meet the requirements of testing with oblique probes and is not suitable for applications in the confined spaces of aircraft.

[0011] Jiangsu University, in its Chinese invention patent application number 201110364359.3, filed on November 17, 2011, discloses a laser ultrasonic thickness measurement method and apparatus for on-site testing. This method utilizes a laser beam to excite ultrasonic waves on the workpiece surface. An air-coupled sensor then receives the excitation wave signal and echo signal generated on the surface. The ultrasonic propagation distance is calculated from the time difference between the excitation wave and echo signal and the longitudinal wave propagation velocity of the workpiece, thereby measuring the workpiece thickness. However, this invention is not suitable for aircraft structural flaw detection.

[0012] Therefore, there is an urgent need to optimize the structure of the ultrasonic detection device so as to provide an improved ultrasonic detection device that can overcome one or more shortcomings in the prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0013] The object of the present invention is to provide an ultrasonic detection device (or ultrasonic probe, probe), which can adjust the incident angle of the ultrasonic wave and has a laser positioning / indication function, wherein the laser indication position can be linked with the incident angle of the ultrasonic wave emitted by the ultrasonic detection device, thereby overcoming the shortcomings of the existing technology and fully meeting the inspection needs of various connection structures on the aircraft in situ, such as the edges of fastener holes, to be inspected.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, an ultrasonic detection device is provided, which may include:

[0015] An ultrasonic generator and a receiver, wherein the ultrasonic generator and the receiver are rotatably supported in the housing;

[0016] an adjusting device, which can be attached to the ultrasonic generator and receiver to rotate the ultrasonic generator and receiver, thereby adjusting the incident angle of the ultrasonic waves emitted by the ultrasonic generator and receiver; and

[0017] A laser can be attached to the housing and emit a laser beam with an adjustable beam angle, wherein the beam angle emitted by the laser is set to change following changes in the incident angle of the ultrasound generator and the receiver.

[0018] This ultrasonic detection device has an adjustable ultrasonic incident angle and has the functions of real-time laser positioning and linking the position indicated by the laser with the incident angle of the ultrasonic wave. When detecting workpieces or parts to be inspected in different in-situ states, such as the edge of a fastener hole (or hole edge), there is no need to repeatedly confirm the probe placement position and frequently replace probes at different angles or customize special probes due to size differences of the workpiece to be inspected (such as fastener holes) or parts, limited detection space, or the presence of a covering layer on the inspected flat plate. This ultrasonic detection device can meet the needs of in-situ detection of various connection structures on aircraft. Compared with the use of traditional ultrasonic detection probes, it can reduce detection time and economic costs and improve detection efficiency and accuracy.

[0019] According to the above aspects of the present invention, the ultrasonic detection device may also preferably include an angle sensor that can sense the incident angle of the ultrasonic wave emitted by the ultrasonic generator and the receiver. Thus, the angle sensor can automatically measure the incident angle of the ultrasonic wave emitted by the ultrasonic generator and the receiver, and transmit a corresponding electrical signal to the ultrasonic detector or the controller of the ultrasonic detection device, thereby improving measurement efficiency and accuracy.

[0020] According to the above-mentioned aspects of the present invention, the ultrasonic detection device may also preferably include an ultrasonic detector capable of adjusting the angle of the laser beam according to predetermined parameters based on the incident angle of the ultrasonic wave, so that the laser indicator point projected on the workpiece corresponds to the horizontal position of the ultrasonic wave propagated in the workpiece by the ultrasonic wave generator and the receiver. In this way, the position of the indicator point of the laser beam emitted by the laser on the workpiece is linked to the incident angle of the ultrasonic wave into the workpiece, and the horizontal position of the ultrasonic wave propagated in the workpiece at that incident angle can be intuitively displayed, that is, the corresponding horizontal position of the part to be detected.

[0021] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the ultrasonic detection device may also include a wedge block, which includes a first matching portion and a corresponding second matching portion, the first matching portion having an arc-shaped cross-section to match the inner surface of the cylindrical cavity of the shell, and the second matching portion including a flat surface to match the ultrasonic generator and receiver.

[0022] This structure allows the ultrasound generator and receiver to rotate within a larger angular range and remain stable at the rotational position.

[0023] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the predetermined parameters may include: the thickness of the workpiece, the propagation speed of the ultrasonic wave in the wedge block, the propagation speed of the ultrasonic wave in the workpiece, the first height of the laser from the upper surface of the workpiece, the horizontal distance between the incident point of the ultrasonic wave entering the workpiece and the laser, the span multiple of the ultrasonic wave propagating in the workpiece, and the second height of the laser indication point from the upper surface of the workpiece.

[0024] These parameters allow the angle of the laser beam to be controlled based on the angle of incidence of ultrasound into the workpiece, thereby achieving a linkage between the incident angle and the laser beam angle, improving the efficiency of ultrasonic testing without the need for repeated calculations or repeated confirmation or adjustment of the probe position.

[0025] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the relationship between the angle of the beam emitted by the laser and the incident angle of the ultrasound generator and receiver can satisfy the following formula (the meaning of each parameter in the formula is as described above):

[0026]

[0027] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the height of the laser relative to the housing is adjustable, so as to adapt to a detection structure with more layers, for example, when the workpiece to be detected is covered by a covering layer.

[0028] According to the above aspect of the present invention, preferably, a distance or position sensor may be further included, wherein the distance or position sensor measures the height of the laser relative to the bottom of the housing.

[0029] In this way, the distance of the laser relative to the shell, especially the lower end of the shell or the upper surface of the workpiece to be inspected, can be determined, so that the height of the laser can be dynamically adjusted according to whether there is a cover or based on the height of the cover. When there is a covering layer above the workpiece to be inspected, this setting can improve the detection accuracy.

[0030] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, in order to more conveniently adjust the height of the laser relative to the housing, the housing may include a slot along the vertical direction of the housing, and the laser includes a guide rod, which can be fitted in the slot and can move relative to the slot (for example, up and down) and be stopped at a predetermined position.

[0031] According to the above aspects of the present invention, preferably, the material of the wedge can be the same as that of the housing to simplify the propagation path of the ultrasonic wave therein and the corresponding calculation (such as angle and propagation time, etc.).

[0032] According to the above aspect of the present invention, preferably, the ultrasound generator and receiver may include a piezoelectric wafer.

[0033] According to the above aspect of the present invention, preferably, the angle sensor may be a Hall strain gauge.

[0034] According to another aspect of the present invention, an ultrasonic detection method is provided, which may include the following steps:

[0035] Providing the ultrasonic detection device according to the above aspects;

[0036] The incident angle of the ultrasonic wave emitted by the ultrasonic generator and the receiver is adjusted via the adjustment device so that the laser light spot emitted by the laser is indicated at the inspected position.

[0037] The ultrasonic detection device according to the present invention optionally has the functions of adjustable incident angle, real-time laser positioning, and linkage between the laser indication position and the incident angle. When detecting the edges of fastener holes in different in-situ states, there is no need to repeatedly confirm the probe placement position and frequently replace probes at different angles or customize special probes due to differences / inconsistencies in the sizes of fastener holes, limited detection space, and a covering layer on the inspected flat plate. This can meet the in-situ detection needs of various connection structures on aircraft, reduce detection time and economic costs, and improve detection efficiency and accuracy compared to the use of traditional detection probes.

[0038] Therefore, the ultrasonic detection device according to the present invention can meet the use requirements, overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and achieve the intended purpose. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] In order to further clearly describe the ultrasonic detection device according to the present invention, the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. In the accompanying drawings:

[0040] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an ultrasonic detection device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0041] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A front view of the ultrasonic detection device shown;

[0042] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic detection device shown through section AA;

[0043] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A right side view of the ultrasonic detection device shown;

[0044] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 A left side view of the ultrasonic detection device shown;

[0045] Figure 6 yes Figure 5A cross-sectional view of the ultrasonic detection device shown through section BB;

[0046] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of performing ultrasonic detection by an ultrasonic detection device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 8 is another schematic diagram of ultrasonic detection performed by an ultrasonic detection device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, illustrating a propagation path of ultrasound; and

[0048] Figure 9 is another schematic diagram of ultrasonic detection performed by an ultrasonic detection device according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the propagation path of ultrasound.

[0049] The above drawings are merely schematic and are not drawn strictly to scale. The reference numerals in the drawings and embodiments are as follows:

[0050] 100-Ultrasonic detection device, including:

[0051] 10-Ultrasound generator and receiver;

[0052] 20- Housing, including:

[0053] 21- cavity;

[0054] 22-card slot;

[0055] 30-adjustment device;

[0056] 40-Laser, including:

[0057] 41- guide rod;

[0058] 50-angle sensor;

[0059] 60-Ultrasonic detector;

[0060] 70-Wedge, including:

[0061] 71-first matching portion;

[0062] 72- second matching portion;

[0063] 200-artifacts, including:

[0064] 201- upper surface of workpiece;

[0065] 202- lower surface of workpiece;

[0066] 203-Fastener hole edge;

[0067] 300-covering parts;

[0068] 400-fasteners;

[0069] X-axis of rotation;

[0070] β - angle of incidence;

[0071] α - beam angle;

[0072] θ - refraction angle;

[0073] P-laser indicator point;

[0074] T-thickness of the workpiece 200;

[0075] v1-the propagation velocity of ultrasonic waves in the wedge 70;

[0076] v2-the propagation velocity of ultrasonic waves in the workpiece 200;

[0077] H—a first height of the laser 40 from the upper surface of the workpiece 200;

[0078] d - horizontal distance between the incident point of the ultrasonic wave into the workpiece 200 and the laser 40;

[0079] n-the span multiple of the ultrasonic wave propagating in the workpiece 200;

[0080] h—a second height of the laser indication point P from the upper surface of the workpiece 200;

[0081] L is the horizontal distance that the ultrasonic wave propagates in the workpiece 200 . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0082] It should be understood that, unless expressly stated to the contrary, the present invention may employ various alternative orientations and step sequences. It should also be understood that the specific devices shown in the drawings and described in the specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts disclosed and defined herein. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, the specific orientations, directions, or other physical characteristics of the various disclosed embodiments should not be considered limiting.

[0083] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an ultrasonic detection device 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The front view of the ultrasonic detection device 100 is shown; and Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view through section AA of the ultrasonic detection device 100 is shown.

[0084] As shown in the figure and according to a non-limiting embodiment, the ultrasonic detection device 100, also called an ultrasonic probe, may mainly include: an ultrasonic generator and receiver 10, a housing 20, an adjustment device 30, a laser 40, and the like.

[0085] The ultrasound generator and receiver 10 is rotatably supported in the housing 20 , for example, housed in a cavity 21 of the housing 20 .

[0086] The ultrasound generator and receiver 10 may include a piezoelectric wafer. As a non-limiting example, the piezoelectric wafer may be made of a piezoelectric material such as piezoelectric ceramics.

[0087] The ultrasonic generator and receiver 10 according to the present invention can be used for generating and receiving ultrasonic waves, and thus can include two piezoelectric wafers, one for transmitting ultrasonic waves and the other for receiving ultrasonic waves. The structure of such an ultrasonic generator and receiver 10 is well known in the art, and therefore, the present invention will not be described in detail.

[0088] The housing 20 may be in a generally box-like shape, such as a truncated rectangular parallelepiped (see FIG. Figure 1 ) and having a generally cylindrical cavity 21 disposed therein to accommodate an ultrasonic generator and receiver 10 and a corresponding wedge 70 (hereinafter referred to as Figure 6 Detailed description), and is used for the installation and connection of the adjustment device 30.

[0089] In addition, the housing 20 may include a slot 22 at one end thereof (e.g., the end away from the cavity 21) along the vertical direction of the housing 20. As described in detail below, the slot 22 may be used to support and guide the corresponding laser 40 to move up and down relative to the housing 20.

[0090] The adjustment device 30 can be attached to the ultrasound generator and receiver 10 to rotate the ultrasound generator and receiver 10. Figure 1 and 2 As shown in detail in FIG, the adjustment device 30 can be in the form of an adjustment knob so that the operator can directly turn it by hand to adjust the ultrasonic generation and the incident angle β of the ultrasonic wave emitted by the receiver 10 (see FIG. Figure 7 ).

[0091] The incident angle β of the ultrasonic wave emitted by the ultrasonic generator and receiver 10 can be sensed by the angle sensor 50. As a non-limiting embodiment, the angle sensor 50 can be a Hall strain gauge.

[0092] like Figure 3As schematically shown in FIG, one end of the Hall effect strain gauge can be fixed to the ultrasonic generator and receiver 10, while the other end can be fixed to the housing 20. Thus, when the ultrasonic generator and receiver 10 is actuated by the adjustment device 30 to rotate about the rotation axis X, the Hall effect strain gauge deforms accordingly, thereby generating a stress change and outputting an electrical signal corresponding to the stress change. This electrical signal can be sent to the ultrasonic detector 60 or the controller to sense the angle of rotation of the ultrasonic generator and receiver 10 in real time. The ultrasonic detector 60 or the controller can display this angle on an output device and use it as an input parameter for the corresponding calculation process.

[0093] It should be understood that although the angle sensor 50 is illustrated in conjunction with a Hall strain gauge in the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art may adopt any type of angle measuring device as long as it is capable of measuring the incident angle β of the ultrasonic wave generated and emitted by the receiver 10, and sending the sensed incident angle β to the corresponding ultrasonic detector 60 or controller (for example, in the form of an electrical signal).

[0094] Figure 4 and Figure 5 They are Figure 1 The right side view and the left side view of the ultrasonic detection device 100 are shown; and Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A sectional view through section BB of the ultrasonic detection device 100 is shown.

[0095] As shown, the laser 40 may be attached to the housing 20, for example, at one end of the housing 20 away from the ultrasound generator and receiver 10 (ie, Figure 1 and 2 at the right end of ).

[0096] like Figure 4 As shown in detail in FIG, the laser 40 may include a guide rod 41 that fits within the retaining groove 22 and is movable relative to the retaining groove 22 and retained at a predetermined position. Thus, by selectively moving and retaining the guide rod 41 within the retaining groove 22, the height of the laser 40 relative to the housing 20 can be adjusted.

[0097] exist Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the slot 22 is disposed at the central axis of the end of the housing 20 , i.e., centered, but the present invention is not limited thereto. In alternative embodiments, the slot 22 may also be disposed in the end of the housing 20 away from the center position.

[0098] The specific details of the locking structure are not shown in the drawings, but such a structure is well known in the art and can be selected by those skilled in the art as needed, as long as the guide rod 41 can be selectively moved and locked in the locking slot 22. In addition, in alternative embodiments, an automatic movement and locking mechanism can be provided, such as by a stepper motor or other mechanism, for easier operation, which will not be described in detail herein.

[0099] Preferably, the ultrasonic detection device 100 may also include a corresponding sensor, such as a position sensor or a distance sensor, which can automatically measure the height of the laser 40 relative to the bottom of the shell 20, such as a first height H of the laser 40 from the upper surface of the workpiece 200.

[0100] The laser 40 can emit a laser beam with an adjustable beam angle α. For example, the laser 40 can be a laser known in the art capable of emitting a laser beam with an adjustable beam angle α. Alternatively, the laser emits a laser beam with a fixed beam angle α but can include a separate rotary actuator to adjust the beam angle. For example, the beam angle of the laser is adjustable within a range of 0-90 degrees, or within a range of 0-180 degrees, and preferably, within a range of 0-360 degrees.

[0101] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the angle α of the beam emitted by the laser 40 is set to change in accordance with the change of the incident angle β of the ultrasound generation and the receiver 10 .

[0102] like Figure 6 As shown in FIG, the ultrasonic generator and receiver 10 is rotatably retained in the housing 20 via a wedge 70. The wedge 70 may be a substantially semi-cylindrical structure, comprising a first mating portion 71 and an opposing second mating portion 72. The first mating portion 71 may have an arc-shaped cross-section to fit into the inner surface of the cylindrical cavity 21 of the housing 20, while the second mating portion 72 may include a flat surface to fit into the ultrasonic generator and receiver 10. In this way, when the ultrasonic generator and receiver 10 is actuated to rotate, it can be stably retained in the rotated position with the help of the wedge 70, thereby ensuring the stability of the incident angle β.

[0103] Preferably, the material of the wedge 70 may be the same as that of the housing 20 , particularly the same as that of the bottom of the housing 20 , or more precisely, the same as that of the portion of the housing 20 between the wedge 70 and the workpiece 200 .

[0104] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of performing ultrasonic detection by an ultrasonic detection device 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] As shown in the figure, the ultrasonic detection device 100 also includes an ultrasonic detector 60, which adjusts the beam angle α emitted by the laser 40 according to predetermined parameters based on the incident angle β, so that the laser indication point P where the beam is projected on the workpiece 200 corresponds to the horizontal position where the ultrasonic wave is generated and emitted by the receiver 10 and propagates in the workpiece 200.

[0106] The ultrasonic detector 60 may include an input device such as a keyboard and an output device such as a display, and may include a controller, which may include various processors and memories. The processor may include a microprocessor unit and / or other types of circuits. The memory may include known data storage media, such as random access memory, read-only memory, and combinations thereof. The predetermined parameters and instructions described herein may be stored in the memory, and when the processor executes the instructions, the calculation method shown in Formula 1 below may be executed.

[0107] It should be understood that although in the embodiment shown in the drawings, the ultrasonic detector 60 is connected to the ultrasonic detection device 100 as a separate component, the present invention is not limited thereto, and in alternative embodiments, they may be integrated together.

[0108] In this context, the horizontal position reached by the ultrasonic wave in the workpiece 200 refers to the point where the ultrasonic wave, when propagating through the workpiece 200, is reflected from an interface perpendicular to the propagation direction and then returns. By observing the echo signal, the inspector can determine whether there are cracks within the structural component. This horizontal position can also be referred to as the extreme position or reflection position of the ultrasonic wave in the workpiece to be inspected, that is, the location where ultrasonic detection is desired.

[0109] like Figure 7 As shown, after the ultrasonic wave is generated and the receiver 10 emits the ultrasonic wave, the ultrasonic wave first passes through the wedge 70, then enters the housing 20, and then enters the workpiece 200 to be inspected at an incident angle β. The refraction angle of the workpiece 200 may be θ. Next, the ultrasonic wave is reflected by the interface between the upper surface 201 and the lower surface 202 of the workpiece 200 to be inspected, for example, three times of reflection as shown in the figure, and then reaches the part to be inspected (for example Figure 7 ), and can be reflected by any cracks that may exist there and return to the ultrasonic generator and receiver 10 along the original path (e.g., in the direction opposite to the forward arrow in the figure).

[0110] The relationship between the beam angle α emitted by the laser 40 and the incident angle β of the ultrasound generator and receiver 10 can satisfy the following formula (1):

[0111]

[0112] in,

[0113] α - beam angle;

[0114] β - angle of incidence;

[0115] T-thickness of the workpiece 200;

[0116] v1-the propagation velocity of ultrasonic waves in the wedge 70;

[0117] v2-the propagation velocity of ultrasonic waves in the workpiece 200;

[0118] H—a first height of the laser 40 from the upper surface of the workpiece 200;

[0119] d - horizontal distance between the incident point of the ultrasonic wave into the workpiece 200 and the laser 40;

[0120] n-the span multiple of the ultrasonic wave propagating in the workpiece 200;

[0121] h—a second height of the laser pointing point P from the upper surface of the workpiece 200 .

[0122] In the ultrasonic detection device 100 according to the present invention, the propagation velocity v1 of the ultrasonic wave in the wedge block 70 and the horizontal distance d between the incident point of the ultrasonic wave entering the workpiece 200 and the laser 40 are inherent characteristics of the ultrasonic detection device 100 itself, and therefore can be stored in the ultrasonic detector 60 or the controller.

[0123] During detection, in order to enable the beam angle α emitted by the laser 40 to be automatically adjusted according to the incident angle β, the following parameters can be input into the ultrasonic detector 60 or the controller: the thickness T of the workpiece 200 (for example, the plate thickness), the propagation speed v2 of the ultrasonic wave in the workpiece 200, and the second height h of the laser indication point P from the upper surface of the workpiece 200.

[0124] To inspect the upper edge of a fastener hole 203, the ultrasonic detection device 100 can be placed on the upper surface 201 of a workpiece 200 (e.g., the illustrated flat plate). The first height H between the laser 40 and the upper surface of the workpiece 200 is adjusted and automatically read. The angle adjustment device 30 is then rotated to set the incident angle β between the ultrasonic generator and the receiver 10 (e.g., a piezoelectric wafer). The span multiple n of the ultrasonic wave propagating through the workpiece 200 can be displayed based on the acoustic path of the maximum echo signal.

[0125] The above calculation formula (1) can be programmed into corresponding executable instructions using various programming languages, such as C / C++ or VB, and the instructions can be stored in a memory, such as the memory of the ultrasonic detector 60 or the controller, so that when the processor executes the instructions, the laser head rotation angle α is automatically controlled based on the above-mentioned parameters, and the laser spot can be projected on the edge of or directly above the fastener 400 installed in the fastener hole to be inspected, thereby intuitively showing the horizontal position of the ultrasonic wave propagation.

[0126] In addition, the ultrasonic detection device 100 according to the present invention may further include a protective film, a sound-absorbing material, etc., which are not shown. These structures are well-known in the field of ultrasonic probes, and therefore will not be shown or described in detail in this application.

[0127] As a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, an ultrasonic detection method may include the following steps:

[0128] An ultrasonic detection device 100 according to the present invention is provided;

[0129] The incident angle β of the ultrasonic wave emitted by the ultrasonic generator and receiver 10 is adjusted via the adjustment device 30 so that the laser light spot emitted by the laser 40 is directed at the inspected position.

[0130] Figure 8 and Figure 9 They are schematic diagrams of performing ultrasonic detection by an ultrasonic detection device 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention, respectively, illustrating the propagation path of ultrasound.

[0131] During testing, if the ultrasonic detection device 100 according to the present invention does not have an integrated controller or control unit, the ultrasonic detection device 100 can be first connected to the ultrasonic detector 60 and the control unit of the ultrasonic detector 60 can be turned on;

[0132] Then, corresponding parameters can be input into the ultrasonic detector 60, such as the thickness T of the workpiece 200 to be tested; the propagation speed v2 of the ultrasonic wave in the workpiece 200; the second height h of the laser indicator point P from the upper surface of the workpiece 200, etc.

[0133] Next, optionally, if there is a cover 300 (such as Figure 8 ), the height of the laser 40 relative to the upper surface of the workpiece 200 can be adjusted according to the thickness of the cover 300. If there is no cover or covering layer above the workpiece 200 to be inspected (such as Figure 9 ), there is no need to adjust the height of the laser 40;

[0134] Next, the ultrasonic detection device 100 can be placed at a predetermined position, and the angle adjustment device 30 can be rotated until the laser spot is directed at the position to be inspected, such as the end of the fastener 400;

[0135] Finally, the signal spectrum and the horizontal distance between the incident point of the ultrasonic wave into the workpiece 200 and the laser 40 (in the embodiment of the figure, it can be the horizontal distance between the front edge of the ultrasonic probe and the edge 203 of the fastener hole) can be recorded.

[0136] It should be understood that the above steps shown in this document are exemplary, and those skilled in the art can change the order of the steps and can add or delete corresponding steps. For example, although this document shows that the corresponding parameters T, v2, h, etc. are first input and then the laser height is adjusted, in an alternative embodiment, the laser height can be adjusted first.

[0137] Advantages of the ultrasonic detection device 100 according to a non-limiting embodiment of the present invention may include but are not limited to the following aspects:

[0138] Compared with the prior art, the present invention provides an adjustable ultrasonic detection device 100 (or ultrasonic probe) with a laser positioning function, which has the functions of adjustable incident angle, real-time laser positioning, and linkage between the laser indication position and the incident angle. When detecting the edges 203 of fastener holes in different in-situ states, there is no need to repeatedly confirm the probe placement position and frequently replace probes at different angles or customize special probes due to different sizes of fastener holes, limited detection space, and a covering layer on the inspected flat plate. This can meet the in-situ detection needs of various connection structures on aircraft, reduce detection time and economic costs compared to using traditional detection probes, and improve detection efficiency and accuracy.

[0139] As used herein, the terms "upper surface" and "lower surface" to indicate position or orientation, as well as the terms "first" and "second," etc., to indicate order, are intended solely to facilitate a better understanding of the present invention as presented in the preferred embodiments by those skilled in the art and are not intended to limit the present invention. Unless otherwise specified, all orders, positions, or orientations are used solely to distinguish one element / component / structure from another and, unless otherwise specified, do not imply any particular order, sequence of operations, direction, or orientation. For example, in alternative embodiments, the term "first mating portion" may be the term "second mating portion."

[0140] In summary, the ultrasonic detection device 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention overcomes the shortcomings of the prior art and achieves the intended purpose of the invention.

[0141] Although the ultrasonic detection device of the present invention has been described above in conjunction with preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the above examples are for illustration only and are not intended to limit the present invention. Therefore, various modifications and variations may be made to the present invention within the spirit of the claims, and such modifications and variations will fall within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. An ultrasonic detection device (100), comprising: An ultrasonic generator and receiver (10), wherein the ultrasonic generator and receiver are rotatably supported in a housing (20); an adjusting device (30) attached to the ultrasonic generator and receiver (10) to rotate the ultrasonic generator and receiver (10), thereby adjusting the incident angle (β) of the ultrasonic wave emitted by the ultrasonic generator and receiver (10); a laser (40) attached to the housing (20) and emitting a laser beam with an adjustable beam angle (α), wherein the beam angle (α) emitted by the laser (40) is configured to change in accordance with a change in the incident angle (β) of the ultrasound generator and receiver (10); and An ultrasonic detector (60) adjusts the angle (α) of the light beam emitted by the laser (40) according to predetermined parameters based on the incident angle (β), so that the laser indication point (P) projected by the light beam on the workpiece (200) corresponds to the horizontal position to which the ultrasonic wave emitted by the ultrasonic generator and receiver (10) propagates in the workpiece (200).

2. The ultrasonic detection device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that An angle sensor (50) is also included, which senses the incident angle (β) of the ultrasound emitted by the ultrasound generator and the receiver (10).

3. The ultrasonic detection device (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that It also includes a wedge (70), which includes a first matching portion (71) and an opposite second matching portion (72), wherein the first matching portion has an arc-shaped cross-section to match the inner surface of the cylindrical cavity (21) of the shell (20), and the second matching portion (72) includes a flat surface to match the ultrasonic generator and receiver (10).

4. The ultrasonic detection device (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that The predetermined parameters include: the thickness of the workpiece (200) ( T ), the propagation speed of ultrasonic waves in the wedge (70) ( v 1 ), the propagation speed of ultrasonic waves in the workpiece (200) ( v 2 ), a first height ( H ), the horizontal distance between the incident point of the ultrasonic wave entering the workpiece (200) and the laser (40) d , the span multiple of the ultrasonic wave propagating in the workpiece (200) n , the laser indication point ( P ) from the upper surface of the workpiece (200).

5. The ultrasonic detection device (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that The angle of the beam emitted by the laser (40) α ) and the incident angle ( β ) satisfies the following formula: 。 6. The ultrasonic detection device (100) according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that The height of the laser (40) relative to the housing (20) is adjustable.

7. The ultrasonic detection device (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that A distance sensor is also included, which measures the height of the laser (40) relative to the bottom of the housing (20).

8. The ultrasonic detection device (100) according to claim 6, characterized in that The housing (20) includes a slot (22) along a vertical direction of the housing (20), and the laser (40) includes a guide rod (41). The guide rod (41) is fitted in the slot (22) and can move relative to the slot (22) and be locked at a predetermined position.

9. An ultrasonic detection method, comprising the following steps: Providing an ultrasonic detection device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8; The incident angle (β) of the ultrasonic wave emitted by the ultrasonic generator and receiver (10) is adjusted via the adjustment device (30) so that the laser light spot emitted by the laser (40) is indicated at the inspected position.

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