Acoustic Buffer Part Holder for Immersion Ultrasonic Testing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Ultrasonic test systems face challenges in accurately inspecting various parts due to signal distortion caused by part holders, which can lead to false positive indications of discontinuities, especially when custom holders are not practical for low-volume, diverse parts.
Innovation Solution
A part holder with solid buffer material having acoustic properties similar to the immersion fluid is used to separate the part from the holder, minimizing signal distortion by creating an acoustically invisible gap, allowing for universal use across different part geometries and reducing interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If custom designed part holders are used for each part, then measurement precision is improved by reducing signal distortion, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single part holder configuration that can accommodate multiple part geometries through adjustable positioning mechanisms, eliminating the need for custom holders for each part type while maintaining signal quality through consistent acoustic coupling
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by adjusting the position and orientation of the part holder relative to the part being inspected, allowing the same holder to work with different part geometries by modifying positional parameters rather than redesigning the holder structure
2Measurement precision
If custom designed part holders are used for each part, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to setup and manufacturing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single part holder configuration that can accommodate multiple part geometries through adjustable positioning mechanisms, eliminating the need for custom holders for each part type while maintaining signal quality through consistent acoustic coupling
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the part holder with adjustable positioning mechanisms that can be quickly set up for different part geometries before inspection begins, eliminating time-consuming custom holder manufacturing and setup processes
3Ease of operation
If part holder surfaces directly contact the part, then ease of operation is improved by providing stable support, but object-generated harmful factors increase due to signal distortion from the holder
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing a buffer material layer between the part holder and the part being inspected. This buffer material acts as an acoustic mediator that transmits ultrasonic waves effectively while preventing direct contact between the holder and part, thereby eliminating signal distortion from the holder while maintaining stable part support
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enhances test signal quality, increases sensitivity in detecting structural inconsistencies, reduces waste from false positives, and lowers production costs by eliminating the need for custom part holders, enabling efficient inspection of a wide range of parts.
Implementation Method 1
a portion of the first and second support surfaces provided with a solid buffer material having acoustic properties approximately equal to the immersion fluid, the solid material separating a surface of the part from the first surface to reduce signal distortion caused by the first surface
Implementation Method 2
Ultrasonic test equipment utilizes a high frequency sound wave generated by an ultrasonic transducer, sometimes referred to as a probe
Implementation Method 3
When the sound wave encounters a discontinuity, such as a delamination, or a change in the stiffness of the material, part of the sound energy is reflected
Data Source
AI summary
A part holder for immersion ultrasonic testing having a solid buffer material with acoustic properties that match the immersion fluid is disclosed. Test systems and methods are also disclosed.