A waterproof probe adapter and device for water-immersion ultrasound systems

Abstract

The application provides a waterproof probe adapter and device for a water immersion ultrasonic system, the waterproof probe adapter comprising: a transition connector, one end of which is connected with a micro electrical signal connector of a probe, and the other end of which is connected with an extension line connector; a waterproof hose, which is sleeved outside the extension line connector and an extension line, and is also sleeved outside the other end of the transition connector; and a compression sleeve, which is sleeved outside the transition connector and is used for compressing the waterproof hose and sealing a joint section between the transition connector and the extension line connector. The application constructs a comprehensive waterproof system, finally realizes four waterproof effects of anti-leakage, anti-corrosion, anti-deformation and adaptation to detection scenes, has a simple structure, is convenient to operate, and can ensure the safety and stability of an electrical interface of a water immersion ultrasonic probe in long-term water immersion detection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of ultrasonic scanning microscope testing equipment, and more specifically, to a waterproof probe adapter and device for a water immersion ultrasonic system. Background Technology

[0002] When using a water immersion ultrasonic scanning microscope for non-destructive testing, one end of the ultrasonic probe is immersed in water, and the other end is connected to the pulse transmitter via a probe extension cable. When using high-frequency probes with miniature electrical signal connectors (such as Micro-dot or SMA interfaces) at the bottom or middle, users need to pay special attention to the water level. Because the probe has a limited length, it is easy for it to be completely submerged during testing. Water seeping into the connection between the probe and its extension cable can damage both, resulting in economic losses. While previous connections had sealing rings for waterproofing, their waterproofing effect was poor, and the probe could not be submerged for extended periods. Furthermore, to prevent water from splashing onto the probe interface during scanning, the water level needed to be manually controlled. Probes with miniature electrical signal connectors at the bottom have a shorter usable length, making the water level requirements even more stringent. Utility Model Content

[0003] In view of one of the deficiencies in the prior art, the purpose of this application is to provide a waterproof probe adapter and device for a water immersion ultrasound system.

[0004] A first aspect of this application provides a waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasound system, comprising: The transition connector has one end connected to the probe's miniature electrical signal connector and the other end connected to the extension cable connector; A waterproof flexible tube is fitted over the outside of the extension cable connector and the probe extension cable, and the waterproof flexible tube is also fitted over the outside of the other end of the transition connector; A compression sleeve is fitted onto the outside of the transition connector. It has an annular boss inside for compressing the waterproof hose and sealing the connection section between the transition connector and the extension connector.

[0005] Optionally, one end of the transition connector has a first thread for connecting to the probe's miniature electrical signal connector, and the other end has a second thread for connecting to the extension cable connector.

[0006] Optionally, the outer side of the middle section of the transition connector is provided with a protruding external thread, and the inner side of the clamping screw sleeve is provided with an internal thread that engages with the external thread.

[0007] Optionally, the edge of the external thread near the end of the extension connector is clamped to the inside of the compression sleeve to press the waterproof hose.

[0008] Optionally, the waterproof hose is a silicone tube.

[0009] Optionally, the extension cable connector has a signal pin inside, one end of which engages with the signal pin of the probe extension cable, and the other end is inserted into a miniature electrical signal connector; one end of the extension cable connector has a threaded first thread on its outer side wall, and the other end has a threaded second thread on its outer side wall, the threaded first thread and the second thread engaging with each other, and the threaded second thread being used to connect with the probe extension cable.

[0010] Optionally, a sealing ring is provided between the probe extension cable and the extension cable connector.

[0011] Optionally, the outer wall of the extension cable connector is provided with a boss, the boss is located at the end of the thread two away from the probe extension cable, and the sealing ring is engaged with the boss.

[0012] Optionally, for ultrasound probes with large RF connectors, the transition connector is connected to the large RF connector of the probe via a probe adapter sleeve.

[0013] A second aspect of this application provides a water immersion ultrasound device comprising the aforementioned waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasound system.

[0014] The waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasonic system provided in this application provides a rigid seal for the probe's electrical interface through a transition connector, and a flexible seal for the connection between the transition connector and the probe extension cable through a waterproof hose between the compression sleeve and the transition connector. Through the connection of these two components, a comprehensive waterproof system is constructed, ultimately achieving a quadruple waterproof effect: leak-proof, corrosion-proof, deformation-resistant, and adaptable to various testing scenarios. The structure is simple and easy to operate. It not only provides comprehensive waterproofing, allowing the probe to be completely immersed in water, but also protects the probe and extension cable, extending their service life and ensuring the safety and stability of the electrical interface of the water immersion ultrasonic probe during long-term water immersion testing.

[0015] Other technical effects resulting from the additional features will be further illustrated in the corresponding embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Other features, objects, and advantages of this application will become more apparent from the following detailed description of non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasound system according to an exemplary embodiment; Figure 2 This is a side view of a waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasound system according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 3 for Figure 1 Corresponding cross-sectional structural diagram; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a transition connector according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 ; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a transition connector according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 ; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a clamping nut according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 ; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a clamping nut according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 2 ; Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a clamping screw sleeve according to an exemplary embodiment; In the diagram: 1 is a miniature electrical signal connector, 2 is a transition connector, 3 is a clamping nut, 4 is a waterproof flexible tube, 5 is an extension cable connector, 6 is a probe extension cable, and 7 is a sealing ring. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The present application will now be described in detail with reference to specific embodiments. These embodiments will help those skilled in the art to further understand the present application, but do not limit the present application in any way. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make several modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of the present application, and these all fall within the protection scope of the present application. Parts not described in detail in the following embodiments can be implemented using existing technology.

[0018] Because of the limited length of the probe, for high-frequency probes (those with miniature electrical signal connectors near the bottom or middle of the probe), the water level in the equipment's water tank needs to be manually limited to prevent water damage to the probe and extension cable. Although the connection between the probe and the extension cable has a sealing ring for waterproofing, direct immersion in water can still easily cause damage to both. Based on the above problems, this application provides a waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasound system to solve these issues.

[0019] Reference Figures 1 to 3As shown in one embodiment of this application, the waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasound system includes a transition connector 2, a clamping sleeving 3, and a waterproof hose 4, wherein: one end of the transition connector 2 is connected to the miniature electrical signal connector 1 of the probe, and the other end is connected to the extension cable connector 5; the waterproof hose 4 is sleeved on the outside of the extension cable connector 5 and the probe extension cable 6, and the waterproof hose 4 is also sleeved on the outside of the other end of the transition connector 2; the clamping sleeving 3 is sleeved on the outside of the transition connector 2 to clamp the waterproof hose 4 and seal the connection section between the transition connector 2 and the probe extension cable 6.

[0020] Specifically, the probe extension cable is the connection between the probe and the pulse amplifier, used to transmit the transmitted wave and the reflected echo signal.

[0021] In the embodiments described above, to prevent water damage and protect the probe's electrical interface and its extension cable, a rigid seal for structural adaptation is achieved through a transition connector 2. A flexible seal for the connection between the transition connector and the probe extension cable is achieved through a waterproof hose 4 between the compression sleeve 3 and the transition connector 2. This connection creates a comprehensive waterproof system, ultimately achieving a quadruple waterproof effect: leak-proof, corrosion-resistant, deformation-resistant, and adaptable to various testing scenarios. The structure is simple and easy to operate. It not only provides comprehensive waterproofing without requiring water level control, allowing the probe to be completely immersed in water, but also protects the probe and its extension cable, extending their service life and ensuring the safety and stability of the electrical interface of the water-immersed ultrasonic probe during complete and long-term water immersion testing.

[0022] In order to connect the probe electrical interface and the extension cable connector, in some specific embodiments of this application, refer to... Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the inner side of one end of the transition connector 2 is provided with a first thread for connecting to the miniature electrical signal connector 1 of the probe, and the inner side of the other end is provided with a second thread for connecting to the extension cable connector 5.

[0023] Specifically, threaded connections, through rotational tightening, allow for a tight and complete fit at the connection point, ensuring the stability of the electrical connection, improving sealing reliability, and facilitating operation.

[0024] In the above embodiments of this application, a transition connector 2 is used to fix the extension cable connector 5 and protect the electrical interface. The transition connector 2 is connected to the extension cable connector 5 and the electrical interface by a thread, so as to achieve the stability of the structural seal, ensure the reliability of the electrical connection, the waterproof sealing, and the convenience of installation and operation.

[0025] To achieve a secure and tight connection between the clamping nut 3 and the transition connector 2, in some specific embodiments of this application, reference is made to... Figures 6 to 8As shown, the middle section of the transition connector 2 has a protruding external thread on the outer side, and the inner side of the clamping sleeving 3 has an internal thread that engages with the external thread.

[0026] Specifically, the external thread matches the internal thread of the clamping sleeve 3, and the connection between the two is achieved through thread engagement.

[0027] The embodiments described above employ a threaded connection method, which can be adapted to liquid environments with stringent requirements for connection reliability and sealing. This not only ensures the reliability of ultrasonic equipment in harsh environments but also simplifies the installation and maintenance process.

[0028] In order to improve the reliability of the connection and sealing of the waterproof hose 4, in some specific embodiments of this application, the edge of the external thread near the extension connector 5 is clamped to the inside of the compression sleeve 3 through a locking action to compress the waterproof hose 4.

[0029] Specifically, the root of the external thread of the transition connector is provided with a downward corner structure, namely an axial step surface. The corresponding position inside the compression sleeve 3 is provided with an annular boss, which engages with the corner structure on one side of the external thread of the transition connector to tightly press the waterproof hose. When the compression sleeve is screwed to the bottom, the annular boss firmly presses the waterproof hose onto the step surface, forming an axial compression seal and improving the sealing effect.

[0030] In order to improve the bending resistance and corrosion resistance of the waterproof hose 4 while ensuring the waterproof effect, in some specific embodiments of this application, the waterproof hose 4 is a silicone tube.

[0031] Specifically, the length of the silicone tube is determined by the probe extension cable 6. It has advantages such as transparency, high elasticity, damage resistance, and lightweight. It can be repeatedly bent without permanent deformation, making it suitable for operation scenarios where the extension cable is frequently moved. It is not easy to crack after long-term use and can withstand the common environment of water immersion ultrasound equipment. It does not become brittle or hard after long-term use, and can protect the probe extension cable from damage due to bending, dropping, or shaking. Due to the low density of the material, wrapping the probe extension cable 6 will not significantly increase the weight of the cable and will not affect the flexibility of operation.

[0032] It should be noted that in other waterproofing implementations, the waterproof hose 4 can also be made of other materials, as long as it can achieve the same function as described above.

[0033] In the above embodiments of this application, the waterproof hose 4 not only serves a waterproof function, but also protects the probe extension cable 6, preventing it from being affected by significant bending and collisions that could affect the transmission of electrical signals.

[0034] In order to enable the extension cable connector 5 to connect to the probe extension cable 6 and the transition connector 2 respectively, in some specific embodiments of this application, the extension cable connector 5 is provided with a signal pin inside. One end of the signal pin engages with the signal pin of the probe extension cable to transmit electrical signals, and the other end is inserted into a miniature electrical signal connector. The outer wall of one end of the extension cable connector 5 is provided with a thread 1, and the outer wall of the other end is provided with a thread 2. The length of thread 1 is greater than the length of thread 2. Thread 1 and thread 2 are connected to each other, and thread 2 is used to connect with the probe extension cable.

[0035] It should be noted that the internal thread of the probe extension cable is short; the shorter thread two is designed to accommodate the probe extension cable. The signal pin of the probe extension cable is inserted into the end of the extension cable connector, and abuts against the internal signal pin of the connector to transmit the signal. A longer thread one is used to provide sufficient engagement length for the outer waterproof silicone tubing to ensure a good seal.

[0036] To prevent water ingress and damage to the probe, in some specific embodiments of this application, a sealing ring 7 is provided between the probe extension cable 6 and the extension cable connector 5. The clamping nut 3 clamps the waterproof hose 4 to seal the connection section between the transition connector 2 and the extension cable connector 5, as well as between the sealing ring 7 and the probe extension cable 6, thereby protecting the transmission of electrical signals.

[0037] For example, the waterproof sealing ring 7 is annular and may be made of nitrile rubber.

[0038] In the above embodiments of this application, a sealing ring 7 is provided to prevent moisture from entering the probe and causing damage to the probe.

[0039] In order to improve the sealing performance of the sealing ring 7, in some specific embodiments of this application, the outer wall of the extension cable connector 5 is provided with a boss, which is located at the end of the thread two away from the probe extension cable 6, and the sealing ring 7 is engaged with the boss.

[0040] To improve the compatibility of the waterproof probe adapter, in some specific embodiments of this application, for ultrasonic probes with large radio frequency connectors, the transition connector 2 is connected to the large radio frequency connector of the probe through a probe adapter sleeve.

[0041] Specifically, the probe adapter sleeve is a universal adapter designed for probe extension cables with miniature RF connectors at both ends and probes without a miniature electrical signal connector in the middle. The probe adapter sleeve has an external interface with threads that engage with the internal threads of the transition connector. The interface contains electrical wires and grooves; the grooves engage with the signal pins at the long end of the extension cable connector, thus enabling electrical signal transmission. In addition to the threaded engagement, the electrical interface between the transition connector and the probe adapter sleeve is also glued together to further enhance the tightness and airtightness of the connection.

[0042] The waterproof probe adapter in the above embodiments of this application can be used directly for the miniature electrical signal connector of the water-immersed ultrasonic probe body, or indirectly for large connectors such as UHF through the probe adapter sleeve. For example, the large connector such as UHF can be adapted to a micro-dot or SMA connector through the adapter sleeve, and then the above-mentioned waterproof probe adapter can be used.

[0043] Another embodiment of this application provides a water immersion ultrasound device, which includes the waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasound system as described in any of the above embodiments. Since the waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasound system described above has the same technical effects, the water immersion ultrasound device in this embodiment also has the same technical effects, and will not be described again here.

[0044] In the embodiments described above, the transition connector 2 serves to fix the extension cable connector 5 and protect the electrical interface. Its double engagement with the clamping sleeving 3 tightly secures the waterproof hose 4, achieving a good seal. The waterproof hose 4 not only provides waterproofing but also protects the probe extension cable from damage due to bending, dropping, or impact. This adapter not only provides waterproofing but also extends the service life of the probe and probe extension cable, saving on consumable costs and making ultrasonic scanning of workpieces safer and more efficient. The waterproof probe adapter and water immersion ultrasonic device provided in the embodiments of this application have technical practicality and economic value and can be widely used in the field of ultrasonic microscopy.

[0045] The preferred features in the above embodiments can be used individually in any embodiment, or in any combination thereof, provided they do not conflict with each other. Furthermore, parts not described in detail in the embodiments can be implemented using existing technologies.

[0046] In the description of the embodiments of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this application.

[0047] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined with "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature.

[0048] In the description of the embodiments in this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified. In this application, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "connected," "linked," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0049] The terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, in the embodiments of this application are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, system, product, or device that includes a series of steps or units is not limited to the steps or units listed, but may optionally include steps or units not listed, or may optionally include other steps or units inherent to such processes, methods, products, or devices.

[0050] The foregoing has described some specific embodiments of this application. It should be understood that this application is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and those skilled in the art can make various modifications or variations within the scope of the claims, which do not affect the substantive content of this application. The above-described preferred features can be used in any combination without conflict.

Claims

1. A waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasonic system, characterized in that, include: The transition connector has one end connected to the probe's miniature electrical signal connector and the other end connected to the extension cable connector; A waterproof flexible tube is fitted over the outside of the extension cable connector and the probe extension cable, and the waterproof flexible tube is also fitted over the outside of the other end of the transition connector; A compression sleeve is fitted onto the outside of the transition connector. It has an annular boss inside for compressing the waterproof hose and sealing the connection section between the transition connector and the extension connector.

2. The waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasonic system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transition connector has a first thread on the inner side of one end for connecting to the miniature electrical signal connector of the probe, and a second thread on the inner side of the other end for connecting to the extension cable connector.

3. The waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasonic system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transition connector has a protruding external thread on the outer side of the middle section, and the clamping sleeve has an internal thread that engages with the external thread.

4. The waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasonic system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The edge of the external thread near the end of the extension connector tightly presses against the waterproof hose through a locking action with the inside of the compression sleeve.

5. The waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasonic system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The waterproof hose is a silicone tube.

6. The waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasonic system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The extension cable connector has a signal pin inside. One end of the signal pin engages with the signal pin of the probe extension cable, and the other end is inserted into a miniature electrical signal connector. One end of the extension cable connector has a threaded first thread, and the other end has a threaded second thread. The threaded first thread and the second thread engage with each other, and the threaded second thread is used to connect with the probe extension cable.

7. The waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasonic system according to claim 6, characterized in that, A sealing ring is provided between the probe extension cable and the extension cable connector.

8. The waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasonic system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The outer wall of the extension cable connector is provided with a boss, which is located at the end of the thread two away from the probe extension cable, and the sealing ring is engaged with the boss.

9. The waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasonic system according to claim 1, characterized in that, For ultrasound probes with large radio frequency connectors, the transition connector is connected to the large radio frequency connector of the probe via a probe adapter sleeve.

10. A water immersion ultrasonic device, characterized in that, The waterproof probe adapter for a water immersion ultrasonic system as described in any one of claims 1-9.

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