Laser Interferometer Reference Integration for Compact Ultrasonic Inspection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing laser ultrasonic inspection apparatuses are hindered by the increase in components and size due to the use of signal generators, particularly large and power-consuming light modulators like acousto-optical modulators, which complicates size reduction and portability.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a light modulator using a vibrator to modulate the frequency of a second laser beam, where the vibrator serves as a signal source for generating a reference signal, reducing the need for additional components and signal generators, and utilizing a semiconductor laser for the first laser beam to minimize size and power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a signal generator is used to generate a reference signal for measuring time, then time measurement capability is achieved, but the number of components increases and size reduction is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The vibrator that modulates the laser beam frequency is combined with the reference signal generation function. The same vibrator serves dual purposes: light modulation and providing the reference signal for time measurement, thereby eliminating the need for a separate signal generator and reducing component count.
Solution Approach 2:
The vibrator is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it modulates the frequency of the second laser beam and generates the reference signal used for measuring the elapsed time. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components in the inspection apparatus.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a light modulator using a vibrator is used to modulate the second laser beam, then light modulation capability is achieved, but additional components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The light modulator function is integrated with the reference signal source. The vibrator used for light modulation also serves as the reference signal generator, combining two previously separate functions into a single component system.
Solution Approach 2:
The vibrator serves itself by providing both the modulation function and the reference signal function. The same mechanical vibration that modulates the light also generates the electrical reference signal through piezoelectric or capacitive coupling, eliminating the need for external signal generation equipment.
3Reliability
If conventional laser ultrasonic inspection apparatus is designed, then inspection capability is achieved, but size reduction and portability are hindered
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple functions (light modulation, reference signal generation, time measurement) are merged into the vibrator component, significantly reducing the overall apparatus size and improving portability while maintaining full inspection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The vibrator is designed as a universal component that performs light modulation and reference signal generation simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows the apparatus to maintain complete inspection capabilities with a compact design, enabling portability.
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 enables a compact and portable laser ultrasonic inspection apparatus capable of accurately measuring elapsed times and frequencies of surface vibrations, facilitating precise flaw detection with reduced components and power consumption.
Implementation Method 1
a first laser light source configured to irradiate a target with a first laser beam as a pulsed beam
Implementation Method 2
a laser interferometer configured to use a second laser beam to detect a vibration of the target derived from ultrasonic waves
Implementation Method 3
a light modulator configured use a vibrator to modulate a frequency of the second laser beam
Data Source
AI summary
A laser ultrasonic inspection apparatus includes a first laser light source, and a laser interferometer configured to use a second laser beam to detect a vibration of the target, wherein the laser interferometer includes a second laser light source configured to irradiate the target with the second laser beam, a light modulator configured use a vibrator to modulate a frequency of the second laser beam, a photodetector configured to receive the second laser beam from the light modulator and the second laser beam from the target to output a light reception signal, and a signal processor configured to detect the vibration based on the light reception signal and a reference signal, and measure, based on the reference signal, an elapsed time from the first laser light source emits the first laser beam to the vibration is detected, and the vibrator is a signal source of the reference signal.