Endoscope Inspection Tool with Calibrated Reference Marks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current endoscope-based inspection methods struggle to accurately characterize defects like scratches and cavities on internal surfaces of hollow parts, leading to high manufacturing costs and reduced production rates due to the inability to reliably measure their dimensions.
Innovation Solution
An inspection tool is fitted to an endoscope, featuring a transparent element with calibrated visual reference marks that allows for precise measurement of defects by comparing their dimensions with known reference marks, facilitating accurate characterization and decision-making on coating retention or removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional endoscope inspection is used, then the inspection process is simple, but the measurement precision of defects is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
A transparent element with visual reference marks is introduced as an intermediary between the endoscope and the defect being inspected. This reference element provides a known scale that enables precise measurement of defect dimensions by comparison, without requiring complex measurement devices
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement approach transitions from direct digital measurement to visual comparison in the optical domain. By placing calibrated reference marks in the field of view, defect size is determined through dimensional comparison rather than electronic measurement, adding a visual reference dimension to the inspection process
2Measurement precision
If visual reference marks are added to the endoscope, then the measurement capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement function is separated from the endoscope itself and placed on a detachable transparent element. This segmentation allows the reference marks to be added without modifying the endoscope's core structure, maintaining simplicity while enabling precise measurement
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent element serves multiple functions: it provides visual reference marks for measurement, maintains optical transparency for imaging, and can be attached to or removed from the endoscope. This multi-functionality adds measurement capability without creating a dedicated complex measurement device
Data Source
AI summary
An inspection tool configured to be fitted to an endoscope includes a body with an attachment portion configured to be attached to one end of the endoscope, and an opening. The tool further includes a transparent element with at least one visual reference mark having a calibrated dimension, wherein the transparent element is mounted at the opening in the body.