Ergonomic Grip for Ultrasonic Inspection Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators face challenges in grasping and maneuvering small non-destructive inspection sensors, leading to excessive exertion and discomfort due to the need to apply force and maintain repetitive motions over large workpieces.
Innovation Solution
A non-destructive inspection apparatus with an ergonomic grip that supports the palm of the operator's hand, featuring a soft material conforming to the hand shape and potentially spring-loaded or suction-based mechanisms for consistent contact, reducing operator strain and improving handling efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the sensor is made small to improve inspection precision, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in grasping and applying force
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system is divided into two distinct components: a small sensor head for precise measurements and a separate ergonomic grip for comfortable handling. This segmentation allows the sensor to remain small for precision while the grip provides ergonomic benefits for ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
An ergonomic grip acts as an intermediary component between the operator's hand and the small sensor. The grip provides a comfortable grasping surface and transmits operator force to the sensor, enabling easy handling of the otherwise difficult-to-grasp small sensor.
2Measurement precision
If the operator applies force to press the sensor against the workpiece, then measurement precision is improved, but operator exertion increases leading to fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
A spring mechanism is incorporated into the grip to dynamically apply contact force to the workpiece. The spring automatically maintains consistent pressure on the sensor against the workpiece surface, eliminating the need for the operator to continuously exert manual force while ensuring quality contact for precise measurements.
3Area of stationary object
If the operator inspects large workpieces by reaching across, then inspection coverage is improved, but operator comfort deteriorates due to uncomfortable poses
Solution Approach 1:
A counterweight mechanism is integrated into the grip to balance the weight of the sensor and compensate for the torque created when the operator reaches across large workpieces. This counterbalancing effect reduces the effort required to position and move the sensor, maintaining operator comfort during extensive inspection coverage.
Data Source
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AI summary
A non-destructive inspection apparatus, system and associated method are provided to facilitate the inspection of a workpiece. The non-destructive inspection apparatus includes an ultrasonic sensor configured to be placed in operable contact with the workpiece. The ultrasonic sensor is configured to emit ultrasonic signals into the workpiece and to receive return signals from the workpiece. The non-destructive inspection apparatus also includes a grip operably connected to the ultrasonic sensor such that the grip and the ultransonic sensor are movable in concert. The grip is configured to support an operator's palm, such as a majority of the operator's palm, such that force applied to the ultrasonic inspection apparatus by the operator is transferred via the grip to the ultrasonic sensor. The non-destructive inspection system may also include a computer in communication with the non-destructive inspection apparatus to receive information relating to the return signals received by the ultrasonic sensor.