Flexible Magnetostrictive Probe Without Permanent Magnets
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nondestructive testing methods for structures, such as guided wave testing using magnetostrictive sensors, face challenges in efficiently detecting anomalies in cables and other cylindrical structures without requiring heavy magnets or being limited to specific surface geometries.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, flexible magnetostrictive sensor probe that generates and detects longitudinal or flexural waves using a ferromagnetic strip and coils, eliminating the need for permanent magnets, and can be adapted to various surface geometries by wrapping around the structure with a flexible backing material.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If permanent magnets are used in magnetostrictive sensor probes, then magnetic field strength is improved, but probe weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces permanent magnets with an electromagnetic field generation system consisting of a coil and DC power source. The coil generates the necessary magnetic field through electromagnetic induction, eliminating the need for heavy permanent magnets while maintaining the required field strength for magnetostrictive sensing operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the method of magnetic field generation from static (permanent magnets) to dynamic (electromagnetic coil). By controlling electrical current parameters in the coil, the magnetic field strength can be adjusted as needed, providing flexibility while reducing probe weight.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid probe structures are used, then structural stability is improved, but adaptability to different surface geometries deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible backing material that supports the sensor elements, allowing the probe to conform to various surface geometries including cylindrical structures like pipes and cables. This flexible construction maintains structural integrity while enabling adaptation to different shapes and sizes.
Solution Approach 2:
The probe design incorporates universal features that enable it to function on multiple surface geometries. The flexible backing and configurable sensor element arrangement allow the same probe to inspect various structures including pipes, cables, and other cylindrical or irregular surfaces.
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
Enables efficient detection of structural anomalies in cables and other cylindrical structures with high sensitivity and adaptability, allowing for non-destructive inspection and monitoring of both solid and hollow structures with diverse geometries.
Implementation Method 1
A known MsS method generates (and detects) longitudinal guided waves directly in the cable. A known MsS probe for the method comprises an MsS wire coil and a DC biasing magnetic circuit.
Implementation Method 2
MsS testing was originally developed for guided wave wire rope and cable inspections... uses mechanical waves that propagate along a structure while guided by its boundaries.
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor for use in magnetostrictive testing of a structure. An array of sensor elements is attached to a flexible backing. Each sensor element has a thin strip made from magnetostrictive material, a first coil wrapped around the width of the strip and operable to provide a DC bias magnetic field, and a second coil wrapped around the width of the strip and operable for MsS generation and detection. Typically, the first coils of all strips are electrically connected to each other and the second coils of all strips are electrically connected to each other, to form two separate coil circuits. The probe may be wrapped around the circumference of a cylindrical structure, and used for magnetostrictive testing.