Can Seam Integrity Assessment Using X-Ray Intensity Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for assessing the integrity of can seams, such as X-ray analysis, struggle to accurately determine the uniformity of contact between the body section and cover plate around the circumference, leading to difficulties in estimating 'free space' and thus compromising the sealing properties of cans.
Innovation Solution
A method using an X-ray source and detector to measure variations in radiation intensity over circumferential intervals of the can seam, allowing for a more precise assessment of seam integrity and uniformity without destructive testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional destructive methods (visual observation, sectioning) are used to assess can seam integrity, then the inspection process can determine overlap region width, but the method is time-consuming, requires destruction of the can seam, and cannot reliably assess seam integrity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical destructive inspection methods with X-ray radiation transmission analysis. The X-ray beam passes through the can seam and detector measures radiation intensity variations, enabling non-destructive determination of overlap region characteristics and seam integrity without physical sectioning or visual cross-section preparation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an X-ray beam as an intermediary to indirectly assess seam integrity. Instead of directly observing or cutting the seam, the X-ray radiation serves as a mediator that interacts with the seam structure, and the transmitted radiation intensity provides information about overlap region width and uniformity without damaging the can.
2Ease of manufacture
If X-ray analysis is used to determine overlap region width, then non-destructive inspection is achieved, but the method struggles to accurately determine the uniformity of contact between body section and cover plate around the circumference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the circumferential measurement into multiple discrete intervals. The detector takes radiation intensity readings at several different circumferential positions around the can seam, allowing separate analysis of contact uniformity in each interval and overall assessment of seam quality around the entire circumference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the measurement from a single point or line to a two-dimensional assessment by taking readings across multiple circumferential intervals. This dimensional expansion allows evaluation of both the width of overlap region and the uniformity of contact around the entire can circumference, providing comprehensive seam integrity assessment.
3Loss of information
If manual destructive sectioning is performed to reveal seal extent, then the overlap region can be visually inspected, but the method alters the state of the seam through release of internal stresses and may not produce an accurate picture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the measurement action before any destructive preparation. The X-ray radiation transmission measurement is conducted on the intact can seam, capturing the true state of the seam including internal stress distributions and actual contact uniformity, before any sectioning or manipulation that would alter these properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a radiation transmission profile that serves as a informational copy of the seam's internal structure. The detector records radiation intensity variations that correspond to the physical structure of the overlap region, providing an accurate representation of seam integrity without requiring physical duplication or sectioning of the actual seam.
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 approach provides a non-destructive, automated method for determining the integrity of can seams, enabling accurate evaluation of seam quality and identifying defects like warping, thereby ensuring reliable sealing and reducing the risk of product contamination.
Implementation Method 1
disposing the can seam between an X-ray source and an X-ray detector; exposing an overlap region of the can seam to radiation from the source
Implementation Method 2
determining an indication of integrity of the overlap region from a measure of variation in radiation intensity readings taken by the detector
Data Source
AI summary
A method of determining integrity of a can seam including disposing the can seam between an X-ray source and an X-ray detector, exposing an overlap region of the can seam to radiation from the source, and determining an indication of integrity of the overlap region from a measure of variation in radiation intensity readings taken by the detector over a series of circumferential intervals of the can seam.