Borescope Probe Articulation Control via Live Menu Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing borescope systems lack efficient and accurate methods for users to adjust articulation settings during inspections, limiting the precision and speed of visual data collection from complex equipment and facilities.
Innovation Solution
A borescope system with a processor-enabled user interface that allows users to control probe movement and adjust articulation sensitivity in a live menu view, enabling real-time configuration of settings for improved inspection efficiency and accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional borescope systems are used without field-adjustable settings, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates because users cannot adjust articulation settings during inspections
Solution Approach 1:
The borescope system implements dynamic adjustment of articulation settings during operation. The processor allows users to modify articulation sensitivity and mode in real-time based on inspection requirements, transforming a static system into a dynamic one that adapts to changing operational conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables changes in operational parameters (articulation sensitivity and mode) during inspection. The processor receives user input and adjusts these parameters dynamically, allowing optimization of probe control characteristics without requiring system reconfiguration or replacement.
2Adaptability or versatility
If field-adjustable articulation settings are added to the borescope system, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The processor serves multiple functions: it controls probe articulation, adjusts sensitivity levels, changes operational modes, and manages the user interface. This multi-functionality consolidates what could be separate complex components into a single intelligent control unit, enhancing adaptability while limiting overall system complexity growth.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-adjustment capabilities where users can independently modify articulation settings during operation. The processor automatically applies adjustments to probe control in real-time, eliminating the need for external calibration equipment or expert intervention for parameter optimization.
3Productivity
If real-time adjustment of articulation sensitivity is enabled, then the productivity is improved through faster inspection, but the device complexity increases due to additional control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback control where the processor continuously monitors probe position and articulation state, then adjusts control signals based on user input and current operational parameters. This closed-loop control enables real-time optimization of inspection speed and precision without requiring overly complex open-loop control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment mechanisms with electronic/digital control through the processor. Users interact via software interface rather than physical mechanical adjustments, reducing mechanical complexity while enabling faster, more precise control responses that improve productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods provided herein. In one embodiment, a borescope system includes a probe to capture images and a display a settings menu, measurements, the images captured by the probe, or any combination thereof. In addition, the borescope system a processor programmed to display a user interface to enable a user to control movement of the probe, adjust settings, navigate menus, make selections, or any combination thereof. The processor is communicatively coupled to the probe, and the display, and is programmed to instruct the borescope to enter a live menu view when an articulation mode is selected from the settings menu. In the live menu view, the processor is programmed to instruct the display to display the images captured by the probe, and to enable a user to control the movement of the probe and adjust articulation sensitivity of the probe while viewing the images on the display.