Implement for holding and positioning a measuring sensor or measuring device and method applied thereby

Abstract

Implement for positioning a measuring sensor against a surface, characterised in that the implement comprises the following elements: - an oblong basic element, - an extension piece; - a holder which is connected to the extension piece, whereby between the basic element and the holder movable connecting elements are provided comprising one or more of the following: - a friction joint, - one or more flexible zones; whereby the holder is provided with means for pressing the holder against the surface to be measured.

Description

[0001] Implement for holding and positioning a measuring sensor or measuring device and method applied thereby.

[0002] The present invention relates to an implement for holding and positioning a measuring sensor or measuring device .

[0003] In particular, the invention is intended for positioning and pressing a measuring sensor or measuring device against an obj ect or surface to be measured.

[0004] For example, the measuring sensor or the measuring device is configured for measuring the thickness of an obj ect or surface using ultrasound or an EMAT sensor (ElectroMagnetic Acoustic Transducer) , but is not restricted thereto . The invention can also be applied using other types of measuring sensors or measuring devices, for example measuring devices for measuring surface roughness or layer thickness gauges, for example, for measuring corrosion protection, coating or paint thickness, paint permeability, paint imperfections, porosity or the like .

[0005] Thickness measurements of walls, sheets, profiles, constructions, pipe or tank walls, ship hulls and the like are usually carried out using an ultrasound thickness gauge or an EMAT thickness gauge . This means that the measuring surface of the measuring sensor needs to be in contact with the surface to be measured, often through the agency of a coupling fluid.In case of ultrasound measurements, the measurement system is usually implemented such that a gap is located between the measuring surface of the measuring sensor and the surface to be measured. For the thickness measurement of, for example, steel plates a coupling fluid is needed to guarantee an efficient transfer of ultrasound waves between the measuring surface of the measuring sensor and the steel surface . This is a consequence of the physical properties of ultrasound waves and the interaction with the different media . The coupling fluid prevents air pockets, improves the signal quality, ensures an efficient signal transfer and reduces wear and tear of the measuring surface of the measuring sensor . The coupling fluid is applied between the measuring surface and the surface to be measured such that said gap is filled with coupling fluid and an effective measurement is possible .

[0006] In the known systems, the coupling fluid is applied on the surface to be measured or on the measuring surface of the measuring sensor . Subsequently, the measuring sensor is pressed on the surface to be measured. However, this has the disadvantage that the measuring surface of the measuring sensor is subj ect to wear and tear because the measuring sensor must be pressed carefully against the surface to be measured. It is inevitable that the measuring surface of the measuring sensor and the surface to be measured shift relative to each other prior to coupling or after coupling and rub against each other such that the measuring surface of the measuring sensor wears down.Obviously, many of the surfaces or obj ects to be measured are at a great height or difficult to access .

[0007] This means that the person performing the measurement often has to work at great heights using, for example, ladders, scaffolding, platforms or cherry pickers, which is not without danger of course .

[0008] Moreover, the use of, for example, a cherry picker is very expensive and time-consuming. In tight or hard-to-reach spaces or spaces with an unstable floor this is, moreover, often impossible . Building scaffolding or platforms is often even more time-consuming and more expensive .

[0009] To avoid the use of ladders, scaffolding, platforms and cherry pickers, sometimes telescopic measuring rods are used on which a measuring sensor or measuring device can be attached in an end holder provided to that end.

[0010] However, the disadvantage of said measuring rods is that the angle between the holder and the measuring rod usually cannot be adjusted. Even if it were possible to adjust said angle, the user must guess and secure the angle between the holder and the measuring rod in advance such that the measuring surface comes to lie as parallel as possible with the surface to be measured. Often several iterations are needed for this, which is time-consuming and frustrating for the user .

[0011] Yet another disadvantage is that after measuring a first surface the angle must again be adjusted when a secondsurface to be measured is at another angle or slope than the first surface . In other words, the user must bring the holder back to the ground by tilting the measuring rod or by shortening or collapsing the measuring rod when the measuring rod is telescopically executed.

[0012] This means that measurements take up a lot of time because every measurement demands a separate setting, for which often several iterations are necessary.

[0013] Moreover, many surfaces are inaccessible with the known measuring rods . For example, the thickness of the roof of a tank or silo that needs to be measured from the outside and from the ground.

[0014] Yet another disadvantage of the known measuring rods or implements for holding and positioning a measuring sensor or measuring device against an obj ect or surface to be measured is that measurements on bent or curved surfaces are inaccurate as the measuring surface makes insufficient contact with the surface to be measured.

[0015] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a solution to the aforementioned and other disadvantages .

[0016] To this end, the invention relates to an implement for holding and positioning a measuring sensor or measuring device against an obj ect or surface to be measured, whereby the implement comprises the following elements :

[0017] - an oblong basic element, suitable to be held by a user;- an extension piece that is hingedly connected to the basic element by means of a first hinge which is provided at one end of the basic element which, when in use, is furthest removed from a user;

[0018] - a holder for holding a measuring sensor or measuring device, whereby the holder is connected to the extension piece near a free end which is furthest removed from the aforementioned first hinge, whereby between the basic element and the holder one or more movable connecting elements are provided, all this such that a relative movement is possible between the basic element and the holder by bending and / or rotating the one or more movable connecting elements, said movable connecting elements comprising one or more of the following :

[0019] - a friction joint,

[0020] - one or more flexible zones;

[0021] whereby the holder is provided with means for pressing the holder against the obj ect or surface to be measured .

[0022] The extension piece that is hingedly connected to the basic element ensures that, when a measuring sensor is placed in the holder, the measuring sensor is able to perform measurements in as many planes as possible, if not all, without the user or operator having to change position.

[0023] The extension piece ensures that the first hinge is placed at a distance from the holder such that any obstacles under the surface or obj ect to be measured do not cause any interference . At the same time, thanks to said distancebetween the first hinge and holder, the angle between the basic element and the vertical line (which intersects the plane formed by the ground at an angle of 90° or is parallel with gravity) is kept very small when in use .

[0024] This means that the implement is also very suitable for use in confined spaces or tight passages and / or in spaces with many obstacles near the surface or obj ect to be measured present .

[0025] However, the user-friendliness, employability and the flexibility are further reinforced by the presence of the one or more movable connecting elements .

[0026] Thanks to said movable connecting elements the measuring sensor is also much easier to handle and manoeuvre at height or at a certain distance removed from the user . More specifically, thanks to the implement according to the invention the measuring surface of the measuring sensor can be brought into contact with the surface or obj ect to be measured much more easily and this in all possible angles or planes without the user having to change position.

[0027] Thanks to the movable connecting elements, the measuring sensor can also successively measure a big range of planes with different orientations relative to each other without the user having to adjust the opening angle of the first hinge or adapt other settings .Obviously, this results in enormous time savings when several surfaces or obj ects with different orientations relative to each other need to be measured in succession.

[0028] Also, after setting the opening angle of the first hinge, several iterations are no longer necessary to establish a good contact between the measuring surface of the holder and the surface or obj ect to be measured. The small variations in angle or orientation that would still be necessary can indeed be compensated by the movable connecting elements .

[0029] Moreover, bringing the measuring surface of the measuring sensor into contact with the obj ect to be measured is strongly simplified and more user-friendly thanks to the means for pressing the holder against the surface to be measured. This is discussed in more detail in the description of the figures .

[0030] Preferably, the basic element is telescopically executed and comprises at least two segments that can telescopically slide relative to each other or into each other .

[0031] Consequently, the greatest distance possible can be bridged when in use, while the implement is still easy to handle in small or low spaces and easy to transport .

[0032] Preferably, the holder is configured for holding a measuring device or measuring sensor or provided with a measuring device or measuring sensor . A measuring device or measuring sensor can, for example, be an ultrasoundmeasuring sensor, suitable for thickness measurement of obj ects or constructions such as sheets, profiles, walls, pipe walls, walls of tanks or silos and the like . However, the invention is not restricted thereto .

[0033] In a preferred embodiment, the holder is also provided with a small camera . This allows the user operating the implement or someone else to monitor the measuring process from the ground. Generally, the camera provides more visual control and makes it easier, among other things, for the user to position the measuring sensor in the exact desired position on the surface to be measured.

[0034] The invention also relates to a method for operating the implement according to the invention. The method according to the invention comprises the following steps :

[0035] a) possibly attaching a measuring sensor or a measuring device on the holder of the implement; b) possibly adapting and locking the opening angle of the first hinge;

[0036] c) moving the holder in the direction of the surface to be measured or moving the holder closely along the surface to be measured until the desired location where the measurement needs to take place on the surface to be measured is reached;

[0037] d) subsequently bringing the holder into contact with the surface to be measured such that a point of contact is created between the holder and the surface to be measured, all this such that there is an angle p between the plane K formed by the measuring surface ofthe measuring sensor and the plane L formed by the surface to be measured;

[0038] e) pushing away, repelling or extending the basic element such that a moment M is created around the aforementioned point of contact, all this such that under the influence of the means for pressing the holder, the plane K formed by the measuring surface of the measuring sensor and the plane L formed by the surface to be measured come to lie substantially parallel .

[0039] Optionally, prior to step c) the basic element may be set to the right length by sliding and securing the one or more telescopic segments of the basic element .

[0040] Possibly, step e) can be followed by a step f ) whereby coupling fluid is inj ected between the plane K formed by the measuring surface of the measuring sensor and the plane L formed by the surface to be measured.

[0041] The advantage of said step f ) , which only takes place after coupling, is that the measuring surface of the measuring sensor is not subj ect to wear and tear . Thanks to the configuration of the holder and the means, the measuring surface does not come into direct contact with the surface to be measured. Consequently, the measuring sensors last much longer than the known measuring rods or implements for holding and positioning a measuring sensor or measuring device against an obj ect or surface to be measured. Indeed, in this case, prior to coupling, first the coupling fluid is applied on the surface to be measured or on themeasuring surface of the measuring sensor, and subsequently the measuring sensor is pressed on the surface to be measured, resulting in wear and tear of the measuring sensor . Daar wordt voorafgaand aan de koppeling immers eerst de koppelvloeistof aangebracht op het te meten oppervlak of op het meetoppervlak van de meetsensor en vervolgens wordt de meetsensor aangedrukt op het te meten oppervlak, met slij tage van de meetsensor als gevolg.

[0042] Optionally, prior to step c) the basic element may be set to the right length by sliding and securing the one or more telescopic segments of the basic element .

[0043] With the intention of better showing the characteristics of the invention, a preferred embodiment of an implement for holding and positioning a measuring sensor or measuring device against an obj ect or surface to be measured according to the invention is described hereinafter, by way of an example without any limiting nature, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0044] figure 1 schematically shows a perspective view of a first variant of an implement for holding and positioning a measuring sensor or measuring device against an obj ect or surface to be measured according to the invention;

[0045] figure 2 shows a view according to the arrow F2 in figure 1 ;

[0046] figure 3 shows a perspective view of a variant in use according to the invention;figures 4 to 6 show the use of the implement according to the invention in three different situations, whereby the thickness of flat surfaces is measured; figure 7 shows a detail according to arrow F7 in figure 4 but on a larger scale;

[0047] figure 8 schematically shows a perspective view of a second variant of an implement according to the invention, whereby the thickness of a pipe is measured figure 9 shows the second variant according to figure 8 for the thickness measurement of an outside bend of a pipe;

[0048] figure 10 shows the second variant according to figure 8 for the thickness measurement of an inside bend of a pipe ;

[0049] figure 11 shows a third variant of an implement according to the invention;

[0050] figure 12 schematically shows a fourth variant of an implement according to the invention in a first use position;

[0051] figure 13 shows the fourth variant of figure 12 in a second use position;

[0052] figure 14 schematically shows steps a) to c) of a method according to the invention;

[0053] figure 15 shows step d) of a method according to the invention;

[0054] figure 16 shows step e) of a method according to the invention;

[0055] figure 17 shows a use position of the invention whereby steps a) to e) of the method were executed.The implement 1 shown in figure 1 essentially comprises a basic element 2, an extension piece 3, a first hinge 4, a holder 5 and a movable connecting element 6.

[0056] The basic element 2 is an oblong element configured to be held by a user 7 .

[0057] The extension piece 3 is hingedly connected to the basic element 2 by means of the first hinge 4 provided at one end of the basic element 2. The end to which the first hinge 4 is provided is the furthest removed from the user 7 when in use .

[0058] A free end of the extension piece 3, said free end being the furthest removed from the first hinge 4 when in use, is provided with the holder 5 for applying a measuring sensor or measuring device 8 .

[0059] In this example, the opening angle of the first hinge 4 is preset by the user 7 using muscle power, but in other embodiments the opening angle of the first hinge 4 can also be set and changed remotely and in different ways, for example hydraulically, pneumatically, mechanically or electrically .

[0060] In this example the first hinge 4 is executed as two concentric disks 4A, 4B with interlocking toothings 9 on the edges of the discs . The rotation of the disks can be locked at the desired opening angle .In this case the extension piece 3 is partly executed as a movable connecting element 6. Alternatively, the extension piece 3 can be completely executed as a movable connecting element 6 or a movable connecting element 6 can be applied between the first hinge 4 and the extension piece 3 and / or between the extension piece 3 and the holder 5.

[0061] The movable connecting element 6 makes a relative movement possible between the basic element 2 and the holder 5 through a bend and a rotation of the movable connecting element 6. Alternatively, only a bend or only a rotation may be possible .

[0062] In this case, the movable connecting element 6 is executed as a flexible zone 9 in the extension piece 3. In this example, the flexibility coefficient or compliance of the assembly of extension piece 3 and holder 5 equals five mm / N. In practice said value can be located between one and ten mm / N, one and ten mm / N included. Alternatively, the flexibility coefficient or compliance of the assembly of extension piece 3 and holder 5, including measuring sensor or measuring device 8, can be located between one and ten mm / N, one and ten mm / N included.

[0063] This range of flexibility coefficient or compliance ensures that the angle or rotation between the holder 5 and the basic element 2 is easy to vary by the user 7. In the example shown, muscle power of the user 7 suffices but in other embodiments this can be done using an actuator operated by the user 7 . Such actuator can be powered hydraulically, pneumatically, mechanically or electrically.In this case, the flexible zone 9 is made from an elastomer, but in practice this can also be polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride in combination with one or more softeners, ethylene-vinyl acetate or a combination of one or more of the aforementioned materials .

[0064] Alternatively, or additionally to the aforementioned materials the one or more flexible zones 9 can also be provided with one or more springs, for example spiral springs such that an angular displacement and / or rotation of the holder relative to the basic element 2 is possible .

[0065] Alternatively, the movable connecting element 6 can also be executed as a friction joint in the form of a ball joint or elbow. Said friction joint can, for example, be provided between the holder 5 and the extension piece 3.

[0066] Such friction joint has three degrees of freedom and ensures that the position and angular displacement of the holder are maintained when, apart from gravity, no external forces act on the holder 5.

[0067] However, under the influence of an external force the position of the holder 5 is movable relative to the basic element 2 .

[0068] In practice the friction joint may also occur in combination with the one or more flexible zones 9.The holder 5 is provided with means for pressing 10 the holder 5 against the obj ect or surface to be measured.

[0069] In this case, said means for pressing 10 comprise a number of permanent magnets 10, which are provided to this end along a contour edge of the holder 5. The three magnets 10 or three magnet pairs form a regular triangle on an imaginary circle, with each vertex of the triangle at a respective angle of 120 degrees . Alternatively, two magnets 10 can also be positioned at a certain distance from each other on an imaginary line, for example . Different variations are possible . In practice, the number of magnets 10 is without limitation.

[0070] Alternatively, said means for pressing 10 may also comprise one or more electromagnets or one or more means for creating an underpressure, such as for example one or more suction cups . Said means for creating an underpressure may also be handy when the obj ect or surface to be measured is not magnetic .

[0071] Underpressure must be interpreted here as a pressure that is lower than the atmospheric pressure .

[0072] Said means for pressing 10 ensure sufficient contact pressure between the measuring surface of the measuring sensor or the measuring device 8 and the obj ect or surface to be measured.Figure 2 relates to a side view of the implement 1, which shows that the basic element 2 is executed telescopically in this example .

[0073] In this case the basic element comprises two telescopic segments, but in practice this number is without limitation. Compared to figure 1, the two telescopic segments 2A, 2B are partially extended, such that the total length of the basic element in figure 2 is greater than in figure 1 .

[0074] Moreover, the telescopic segments 2A, 2B are provided with locking means 11 to be able to lock the position of the segments 2A, 2B relative to each other at the desired length. In this example, the locking means 11 are executed as a pin provided on the one segment 2A and corresponding holes 12 provided to this end in the longitudinal direction of the other segment 2B, all this such that the movement of the segments 2A, 2B relative to each other is locked when the pin of the one segment 2A is applied in a hole 12 of the other segment 2B . The locking means 11 can be executed in many different ways of course, for example by a clamping ring or the like .

[0075] Figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment whereby not only a flexible zone 9 is provided between the first hinge 4 and the holder 5 but a second flexible zone 9' is also provided between the basic element 2 and the first hinge 4.

[0076] In this case the telescopic segment 2B that is connected to the first hinge 4 is provided with the second flexible zone9' such that an angular displacement or rotation is possible between the telescopic segment 2A which is held by the user 7 when in use and the holder 5. Alternatively, only a bend or only a rotation may be possible .

[0077] In this example of figure 3, the flexibility coefficient or compliance of the total implement 1 equals seven mm / N. In practice, said value may be located between one and ten mm / N, one and ten mm / N included. Alternatively, the flexibility coefficient or compliance of the total implement 1, including measuring sensor or measuring device 8, can be located between one and ten mm / N, one and ten mm / N included.

[0078] This range of flexibility coefficient or compliance ensures that the angle or rotation between the holder 5 and the basic element 2 is easy to vary by the user 7. In the example shown, muscle power of the user 7 suffices but in other embodiments this can be done using an actuator that is operated by the user 7. Such actuator can, for example, be powered hydraulically, pneumatically, mechanically or electrically .

[0079] In this case, the second flexible zone 9' is made from an elastomer, but in practice this can also be polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride in combination with one or more softeners, ethylene-vinyl acetate or a combination of one or more of the aforementioned materials .

[0080] Alternatively, or additionally to the aforementioned materials the second flexible zone 9 ' can also be providedwith or executed as one or more springs, for example spiral springs such that an angular displacement and / or rotation of the holder 5 relative to the basic element 2 is possible .

[0081] In practice, the number of flexible zones 9, 9' between the first hinge 4 and the holder 5 and between the first hinge 4 and the basic element 2 is without limitation.

[0082] In figure 3, the implement 1 is pressed against a vertical steel wall 13 by manipulation of the basic element 2 by a user 7 (not shown) with the holder 5, on which a measuring sensor or measuring device 8 is attached.

[0083] The permanent magnets 10 provided to this end on the holder 5 ensure sufficient contact pressure between the measuring sensor or measuring device 8 and the steel wall 13 to be measured, the thickness of which needs to be measured locally, for example

[0084] The permanent magnets 10 can be detached from the surface to be measured 13 by manipulation of the basic element 2 using the muscle strength of the user 7. In the case of electromagnets, the attachment and detachment of the electromagnets on the surface to be measured 13 can be done by remotely switching the power of the electromagnets on or off, or in the case of suction cups, by releasing the underpressure .

[0085] This figure also shows that the holder 5 is provided with a connection 14 for connecting a hose (not shown) which cantransport coupling fluid to the holder 5 and with one or more outlet openings in the holder 5. Such coupling fluid can then be pumped remotely by the user 7, under the influence of, for example, a small pump (not shown) , between the measuring sensor or measuring device 8 and surface to be measured 13.

[0086] The magnets 10 are arranged such that, when in use, there is always a small gap between the measuring surface of the measuring sensor 8 and the surface to be measured 13, all this such that the coupling fluid can flow between the measuring surface and the surface to be measured 13. The width of the gap varies from a number of micrometers to hundreds of micrometers . Typically, the width of the gap lies in the range from five to five hundred micrometers, depending on the smoothness of the surface, the quality of the coupling fluid, the pressure and quality of the measuring device 8, etc .

[0087] The width of the gap (in other words the distance between the measuring surface of the measuring sensor 8 and the surface to be measured 13) can be adjusted. For example, by an adjustment mechanism or by different, or length-adjustable, spacers or the like .

[0088] When using other measuring devices which do not require any coupling fluid, said gap is not necessary and the means for pressing 10 the holder 5 can also be located in another plane . For example, in the case of an EMAT sensor, no coupling fluid is necessary. The distance between themeasuring surface of the EMAT sensor and the surface to be measured 13 may equal up to twenty centimetres .

[0089] Figures 4 to 6 show different examples of use positions . These figures show that the implement 1 according to the invention is able to carry out measurements in all possible planes, i . e . vertical, horizontal, around a corner, etc . without the user 7 having to change position. In these figures 4 to 6, the basic element 2 comprises fourteen telescopic segments .

[0090] The detail of figure 4 as shown in figure 7 makes it clear that substantial bending of the flexible zones 9, 9' , in combination with the opening angle of the first hinge 4 of the implement, allows even a horizontal plane 13 at height, for example a roof surface 13, to be reached from above, for a thickness measurement, for example, while the user 7 stands on the ground 15. The angle between the longitudinal axis of the holder 5 and the longitudinal axis of the basic element 2 equals almost 180° here . In practice said angle can even be greater than 180° .

[0091] The implement shown in figure 8 comprises the same elements as the variant described in figures 1 to 7 but the design of the holder 5 is different .

[0092] The holder 5 as applied in the variant of figure 8 is oblong, whereby the magnets 10 are provided substantially in one straight line . In this case, the holder 5 is provided with six magnets, but in practice the number is without limitation, however typically varies between twoand ten magnets 10. As described above, the magnets 10 can also be replaced in this variant by other means for pressing 10 the holder 5 such as for example suction cups .

[0093] The oblong design of the holder 5 makes this variant exceptionally suitable for measuring curved surfaces such as for example a round pipe 16.

[0094] Indeed, in case of application of the variant as shown in figures 1 to 7, the magnets 10 or magnet pairs form a regular triangle on an imaginary circle . However, three points determine a plane, such that a good coupling on a curved or bent surface cannot be guaranteed.

[0095] As the magnets 10 or magnet pairs of the holder 5 in the variant of figure 8 lie on one line there is adequate contact between the measuring surface of the measuring sensor 8 and the surface to be measured 13, in this case the pipe 16.

[0096] Figure 9 clearly shows that the holder 5 in this variant is provided with two elastic zones 17, all this such that the holder 5 can assume the curvature of the surface to be measured 13, in this case an outside bend of a pipe 16. In this example the holder 5 is partially made from an elastic material . Alternatively, the holder 5 can also be made completely from an elastic material . The number of elastic zones 17 is without limitation but typically one or two elastic zones 17 are present in the holder 5.Figure 10 shows the same variant as in figures 8 and 9, but here a specific measurement of an inside bend of a pipe 16 is performed. Figures 8 to 10 show how the implement according to the invention is also exceptionally suitable for performing precise measurements on curved or bent surfaces .

[0097] The variant shown in figure 11 comprises an extension piece 3 executed in several parts, in this case two parts . In this case, a second hinge 18 is provided between a first part 3A and a second part 3B . This variant is exceptionally suitable for measuring or reaching surfaces facing upwards, such as for example roof surfaces, the upperside of pipes or tubes and the like . In this case the first part 3A is executed telescopically and flexibly, but this is not necessary. Alternatively, or additionally, the second part 3B can also be executed telescopically and flexibly.

[0098] In the fourth variant, as shown in figure 12, the opening angle of the first hinge 4 is restricted between a first end stop 19A and a second end stop 19B . In this variant, preferably, the smallest enclosed angle a between the longitudinal axis X-X' of the basic element 2 and the longitudinal axis Y-Y' of the extension piece 3 is greater when the first end stop 19A is reached than when the second end stop 19B is reached.

[0099] In this case, the smallest enclosed angle a between the longitudinal axis X-X' of the basic element 2 and the longitudinal axis Y-Y' of the extension piece 3 equals 45°when the first end stop 19A is reached and 90° when the second end stop 19B is reached.

[0100] In practice, the smallest enclosed angle a between the longitudinal axis X-X' of the basic element 2 and the longitudinal axis Y-Y' of the extension piece 3 is, for example :

[0101] - less or equalling 45° when the first end stop 19A is reached;

[0102] - less or equalling 90° when the second end stop 19B is reached.

[0103] In practice, the opening angle of the first hinge 4 is less than or equals 180° and preferably equals 135° .

[0104] In that case the longitudinal axis X-X' of the basic element 2 and the longitudinal axis Y-Y' of the extension piece 3 define a plane, whereby the extension piece 3 can tilt in the plane between a first use position, as shown in figure 12 and a second use position as shown in figure 13. A rotation of the basic element 2, whereby the assembly of extension piece 3 and holder 5 are brought over their tilting point, suffices to transition from the first use position to the second use position or vice versa . Indeed, the extension piece 3 will then tilt from the first use position to the second use position or vice versa under the influence of gravity. Alternatively, the transition from the first use position to the second use position or vice versa can also be powered, for example by an actuator .In the example shown in figures 12 and 13, a friction joint 22 is also provided between the holder 5 and the extension piece 3. In this case, said friction joint 22 is a ball joint but alternatively a different joint or an elbow are also possible . The friction joint 22 ensures that the holder 5 can be rotated relative to the extension piece 3 such that a big range of angles and positions can be reached .

[0105] The friction joint 22 ensures sufficient friction between the holder 5 and the extension piece 3 such that the holder 5 does not move under the influence of gravity, but can move under the influence of other external forces .

[0106] The operation of the implement 1 is very simple and becomes clearer based on figures 14 to 17.

[0107] In a first step a) a measuring sensor or measuring device 8 is attached to the holder 5 of the implement (unless this is already present) .

[0108] Subsequently, if necessary, in a second step b) , the opening angle of the first hinge 4 is adjusted and locked.

[0109] If necessary, the basic element 2 is set to the correct length by sliding and subsequently securing the one or more telescopic segments 2A, 2B, etc . of the basic element 2.

[0110] Subsequently, in step c) , the holder 5, is moved in the direction of the surface to be measured 13 or closely along the surface to be measured 13 until the desired locationwhere the measurement needs to take place on the surface to be measured 13 is reached, said situation is shown in figure 14 where the holder is moved in the direction of arrow F, closely along the surface to be measured 13. In practice the invention also works in the reverse direction.

[0111] Closely is understood to mean a distance d from one millimetre to tens of centimetres .

[0112] In a next step d) the holder 5 is brought into contact with the surface to be measured 13 such that a point of contact 20 is created between the holder 5 and the surface to be measured 13.

[0113] At that moment an angle p is present between the plane K formed by the measuring surface of the measuring sensor 8 and the plane L formed by the surface to be measured 13. This is shown in figure 15, where the angle p equals approximately 45° . However, in this phase, said angle p may strongly vary, for example between 5° and 90° .

[0114] In a next step e) , the basic element is manipulated, pushed away, repelled or extended such that a moment M is created around the point of contact 20. The point of contact 20 does not shift or only minimally relative to the surface to be measured 13 thanks to one or more friction zones 21 of the holder 5. Indeed, thanks to said friction zones 21, under the influence of an attraction force caused by the magnets 10 or the underpressure, for example, in the case of suction cups, a moment M is created in the point of contact 20 when the basic element 2 is moved further in thedirection of the arrow F. Consequently, the measuring surface of the measuring sensor 8, under the influence of the magnets 10 or other means for pressing 10 the holder 5 is brought to the surface to be measured 13. This step is shown in figure 16.

[0115] The moment M cannot be created until there is sufficient attraction force as a result of the means for pressing 10 and / or sufficient frictional force is created in the point of contact 20. Indeed, without at least one of said forces the measuring sensor 8 would glide along the surface to be measured 13 such that no effective coupling is realised. In the point of contact 20 a hinge point is created as it were around which the holder 5 can hinge . The attraction force of the means for pressing 10 and / or external forces, for example a manual manipulation of the basic element 2, cause a rotating movement of the holder 5 around the point of contact 20 such that the surface to be measured of the measuring sensor 8 is pressed as much as possible against the surface to be measured 13.

[0116] It will be clear to the person skilled in the art that the aforementioned friction zones 21, in combination with an external force, for example a manual manipulation of the basic element 2 by a user, form a fully-fledged means for pressing the holder 5 against the obj ect or surface to be measured 13. The frictional force generated by one or more friction zones 21 in the point of contact 20 may, in combination with such external force, suffice in certain embodiments or use conditions, to sufficiently press the holder 5 against the surface to be measured 13. Thisapplies particularly when the surface to be measured 13 has a rough structure which causes increased friction upon contact with the friction zones 21.

[0117] The result is that the friction zones 21 do not necessarily have to be combined with other pressing means 10. Both the one or more permanent magnets and / or electromagnets 10, and the means for creating an underpressure, as well as the one or more friction zones 21 can be applied separately or in a random combination.

[0118] The aforementioned friction zones 21 can be provided locally or completely around the contour edge of the holder 5.

[0119] After this, the angle p between the plane K and the plane L, as shown in figure 17, will be approximately equal to 0° , in which case the measuring sensor 8 is coupled to the surface to be measured 13.

[0120] If relevant, a step f ) follows whereby after coupling of the measuring sensor 8 and the surface to be measured 13, coupling fluid is inj ected between the plane K and plane L .

[0121] This step f ) , which only takes place after coupling has the advantage that the measuring surface of the measuring sensor 8 is not subj ect to wear and tear . Thanks to the configuration of the holder 5 and the means 10, as described above, the measuring surface does not come into direct contact with the surface to be measured 13. Consequently, the measuring sensors 8 last much longer thanthe known measuring rods or implements 1 for holding and positioning a measuring sensor or measuring device 8 against an obj ect or surface to be measured 13. Indeed here, prior to coupling, first the coupling fluid is applied on the surface to be measured 13 and subsequently the measuring sensor 8 is pressed on the surface to be measured 13, resulting in wear and tear of the measuring sensor .

[0122] It goes without saying that the magnets 10 are only of influence if the surface to be measured 13 is magnetic . For non-magnetic surfaces 13, the other means for pressing 10 the holder 5, for example suet ion cups, can be used.

[0123] The implement and the method according to the invention thus ensure a self-aligning holder 5 and by extension a self-aligning implement . The implement according to the invention can reach all possible directions and planes .

[0124] In practice the compliance or flexibility coefficient of all flexible zones 9 is added up such that the holder 5 does not change position under the influence of gravity but at the same time the sum of the attraction forces of the means 10 for pressing the holder 5, for example the sum of the magnetic forces, is so big that said forces can exceed the sum of the compliances or flexibility coefficients of flexible zones 9 when the implement is in step d) or e) . However, the attraction forces of the means 10 may not be too big either, such that the holder 5 can also be detached (withdrawn) easily from the surface to be measured 13.In short : forces needed to bend flexible zones 9 < attraction forces of the means 10 of the holder 5.

[0125] For reasons of clarity, figures 1 to 3 and 7 to 17 only show a section of the basic element 2.

[0126] The invention also relates to an implement 1 whereby no first hinge 4 is provided between the basic element 2 and the extension piece 3, but whereby the basic element 2 is coupled directly to the extension piece 3 and whereby the bend and or rotation of the basic element 2 relative to the holder 5 is made possible by one or more flexible zones 9, 9' provided to this end between the basic element 2 and the holder 5.

[0127] The present invention is by no means limited to the embodiments described as an example and shown in the drawings, but an implement for holding and positioning a measuring sensor or measuring device according to the invention can be realised in all kinds of forms and dimensions without departing from the scope of the invention .

Claims

Claims .1 . - Implement for holding and positioning a measuring sensor or measuring device ( 8 ) against an obj ect or surface to be measured ( 13 ) , characterised in that the implement ( 1 ) comprises the elements below :- an oblong basic element ( 2 ) , suitable to be held by a user ( 7 ) ;an extension piece ( 3 ) that i s hingedly connected to the basic element ( 2 ) by means of a first hinge ( 4 ) which is provided at one end of the basic element ( 2 ) which, when in use , is furthest removed from a user ( 7 ) ;a holder ( 5 ) for holding a measuring sensor or measuring device ( 8 ) , whereby the holder ( 5 ) is connected to the extension piece ( 3 ) near a free end which is furthest removed from the aforementioned first hinge ( 4 ) ,whereby between the basic element ( 2 ) and the holder ( 5 ) one or more movable connecting elements ( 6 ) are provided, all this such that a relative movement is possible between the basic element ( 2 ) and the holder ( 5 ) by bending and / or rotating the one or more movable connecting elements ( 6 ) , said movable connecting elements ( 6 ) comprising one or more of the following :- a friction j oint ,- one or more flexible zones ( 9 , 9 ' ) ;whereby the holder ( 5 ) is provided with means ( 10 ) for pressing the holder ( 5 ) against the obj ect or surface to be measured ( 13 ) .

2. - Implement according to claim 1, characterised in that the aforementioned means ( 10) for pressing the holder (5) against the obj ect or surface to be measured ( 13) comprise one or more of the following:- one or more permanent magnets and / or electromagnets ( 10) ;- means for creating an underpressure between the holder (5) and the obj ect or surface to be measured ( 13) , such as for example one or more suction cups;- one or more friction zones (21 ) provided along a contour edge of the holder (5) .

3. - Implement according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the flexibility coefficient or compliance of the implement ( 1 ) is between one and ten mm / N.

4. - Implement according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the holder (5) is provided with one or more elastic zones ( 17 ) , all this such that the holder (5) can assume the curvature of the surface to be measured ( 13) or the obj ect to be measured.

5. - Implement according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the basic element (2 ) is executed telescopically and comprises at least two telescopic segments (2A, 2B) .

6. - Implement according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the extension piece (3) comprises at least a first part (3A) and a second part (3B) whereby a second hinge ( 18 ) is applied between the first part (3A) and the second part (3B) .

7. - Implement according to claim 6, characterised in that the first part (3A) and / or the second part (3B) are executed telescopically.

8. - Implement according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that between the first hinge (4) and the basic element (2 ) and / or between the first hinge (4 ) and the holder (5) one or more flexible zones ( 9, 9' ) are provided such that a relative movement is possible between the basic element (2 ) and the holder (5) by bending and / or rotating the one or more flexible zones ( 9, 9' ) .

9. - Implement according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the first hinge (4) has one degree of freedom.

10. - Implement according to claim 9, characterised in that the opening angle of the first hinge (4 ) can be locked between a first end stop and a second end stop.

11. - Implement according to claim 10, characterised in that the opening angle of the first hinge is less or equal to 180° and preferably is equal to 135° .

12. - Implement according to claim 10, characterised in that according to a first use position the smallest enclosed angle between the extension piece (3) and the basic element (2 ) is equal to 45° and that according to a second use position the smallest enclosed angle between the extension piece (3) and the basic element (2 ) is equal to 90° , whereby the angle between the first use position and second use position is equal to 135° .

13. - Implement according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the implement ( 1 ) is provided with means for varying the opening angle of the first hinge (4 ) , whereby said means can be powered hydraulically, pneumatically, mechanically or electrically.

14. - Implement according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the friction joint has three degrees of freedom, for example a ball joint .

15. - Implement according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the one or more flexible zones ( 9, 9' ) are executed as, or provided with:a section made from an elastomer, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride in combination with one or more softeners, ethylene vinyl acetate or a combination of one or more of the aforementioned materials, and / or; - a spring, for example a spiral spring.

16. - Implement according to any one of the previous claims, characterised in that the holder (5) is configured for holding a measuring device or measuring sensor ( 8 ) or isprovided with a measuring device or measuring sensor ( 8 ) , for example an ultrasound measuring sensor ( 8 ) for the thickness measurement of obj ects or constructions ( 13 ) such as sheets , walls , pipe walls , walls of tanks or silos and the like .17 . - Implement according to any one of the previous claims , characterised in that the holder ( 5 ) is provided with a connection ( 14 ) for supplying coupling fluid and is provided with outlet openings for discharging coupling fluid, all this such that when in use and with a measuring sensor ( 8 ) in the holder ( 5 ) , the coupling fluid can flow between a measuring surface of the measuring sensor ( 8 ) and surface to be measured ( 13 ) .18 . - Implement according to any one of the previous claims , characterised in that the holder ( 5 ) is provided with a camera .19 . - Method for coupling a measuring sensor ( 8 ) to a surface to be measured ( 13 ) using an implement according to any one of the previous claims 1 to 18 , characterised in that the method comprises the following steps :a ) possibly attaching a measuring sensor or a measuring device ( 8 ) on the holder ( 5 ) of the implement ( 1 ) ;b ) possibly adapting and locking the opening angle of the first hinge ( 4 ) ;c ) moving the holder ( 5 ) in the direction of the surface to be measured ( 13 ) or moving the holder ( 5 ) closely along the surface to be measured ( 13 ) until the desired locationwhere the measurement needs to take place on the surface to be measured ( 13) is reached;d) subsequently bringing the holder (5) into contact with the surface to be measured ( 13) such that a point of contact (20) is created between the holder (5) and the surface to be measured ( 13) , all this such that an angle ( p) is present between the plane (K) formed by the measuring surface of the measuring sensor and the plane (L) formed by the surface to be measured ( 13) ;e) pushing away, repelling or extending the basic element (2 ) such that a moment (M) is created around the aforementioned point of contact (20) , all this such that under the influence of the means ( 10) for pressing the holder (5) , the plane (K) formed by the measuring surface of the measuring sensor ( 8 ) and the plane (L) formed by the surface to be measured ( 13) come to lie substantially parallel .

20. - Method according to claim 19, characterised in that prior to step c) the basic element (2 ) is set to the correct length by sliding and securing the one or more telescopic segments (2A, 2B) of the basic element (2 ) .

21. - Method according to any one of the previous claims 19 or 20, characterised in that step e) is followed by a step f ) whereby coupling fluid is inj ected between the plane (K) formed by the measuring surface of the measuring sensor ( 8 ) and the plane (L) formed by the surface to be measured ( 13) .

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