Flexible Multi-Sensor Probe for Round Hole Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Eddy current and ultrasonic inspection methods face challenges in precisely manipulating probes for inspecting inner diameter surfaces of larger diameters, requiring complex manipulation and lengthy inspection times due to the need for single sensor probes to achieve adequate coverage.
Innovation Solution
A probe with a flexible sheet biased to conform to the interior of a round hole, equipped with multiple sensors for transmitting non-destructive signals, and an elongated sensor support with a bearing plate and biasing element to ensure complete and efficient inspection coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single sensor probe is used for inspection, then the probe structure is simple, but the inspection time becomes very long due to coverage requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The probe divides the inspection function into multiple independent sensors (first sensor, second sensor, third sensor, fourth sensor) arranged around the hole circumference. Each sensor covers a specific angular sector, allowing parallel inspection of different portions of the hole simultaneously, thereby reducing total inspection time while maintaining manageable probe structure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a single-point inspection approach to a multi-point circumferential arrangement. Sensors are positioned at different angular positions (e.g., 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) around the hole, adding the dimensional aspect of angular distribution. This enables simultaneous coverage of multiple locations, reducing inspection time without significantly increasing structural complexity
2Device complexity
If a single sensor is used, then the probe is simpler, but complex manipulation is required to ensure adequate inspection coverage
Solution Approach 1:
The circumferential arrangement of multiple sensors automatically divides the inspection coverage into distinct angular sectors. Each sensor is responsible for a specific portion of the hole circumference, eliminating the need for complex manipulation to ensure coverage. The geometry itself ensures that all critical areas are inspected simultaneously when the probe is properly positioned
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-sensor probe configuration provides universal coverage capability for circular holes of various sizes. By arranging sensors around the entire circumference, the probe can inspect the entire hole interior in a single positioning, making the operation simpler and more universal across different inspection scenarios compared to single-sensor probes that require repeated positioning and manipulation
3Area of stationary object
If probe manipulation is performed for large diameter holes, then inspection coverage can be achieved, but the manipulation becomes very difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention addresses large diameter holes by distributing sensors around the entire circumference rather than using a single sensor that would require extensive linear movement. The circumferential arrangement allows the probe to cover the entire large-diameter hole interior by simply being positioned at the correct radial location, eliminating difficult manipulation operations while maintaining adequate inspection coverage for large areas
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
The solution allows for efficient and precise inspection of substantially round holes by enabling the flexible sheet or elongated sensor support to conform to the hole's interior, reducing manipulation complexity and inspection time while ensuring comprehensive coverage with multiple sensors.
Implementation Method 1
The disclosure relates generally to inspection systems, and more particularly, to probes for an inspection system for a substantially round hole using eddy currents or ultrasound.
Implementation Method 2
The disclosure relates generally to inspection systems, and more particularly, to probes for an inspection system for a substantially round hole using eddy currents or ultrasound.
Data Source
AI summary
Probes for an inspection system for a substantially round hole in a material are provided. One version of the probe may include a flexible sheet shaped and biased to substantially conform with a portion of an interior of the substantially round hole; and a plurality of sensors disposed on the flexible sheet, each sensor configured to transmit a non-destructive signal into the material for inspecting the substantially round hole.