Modular Inspection Handset with Universal Probe Interface
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nondestructive testing inspection systems lack flexibility, as they often require separate devices for different inspection probes and modalities, limiting the ability to switch between probes or upgrade individual components without replacing the entire system.
Innovation Solution
A modular inspection system comprising a handset that can selectively engage with various inspection modules, allowing the same handset to be used with different modalities such as visual, eddy current, ultrasound, and radiographic systems, with modality-specific components located in the inspection module rather than the handset.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a particular probe is permanently attached to the handset, then the inspection system can maintain stable operation with that probe, but the system cannot be used with other probes requiring different modalities or characteristics
Solution Approach 1:
The handset is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of inspection probes through mechanical engagement features. The housing includes a probe interface with electrical contacts and mechanical alignment features that work with different probe types (visual, eddy current, ultrasound, radiographic), allowing a single handset to perform multiple inspection modalities without requiring separate dedicated devices for each probe type
2Reliability
If different inspection systems are provided for different probe modalities, then each system can be optimized for its specific function, but the overall system quantity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple inspection system capabilities into a single handset by integrating a universal probe interface that accepts various modality-specific probes. The handset houses common components such as the display, control interface, power management, and data processing circuitry that are shared across different inspection types, while only the probe itself (containing modality-specific sensors or transducers) needs to be changed. This merging approach allows one inspection system to replace multiple separate systems, reducing the total quantity of equipment needed
3Ease of manufacture
If the entire inspection unit must be replaced when upgrading a probe, then system integration is simplified, but the cost and downtime for upgrades increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The inspection system is segmented into modular components: a reusable handset containing shared functionality and disposable or upgradable probes containing modality-specific functionality. The probe interfaces with the handset through a standardized mechanical and electrical connection that allows the probe to be independently removed and replaced. This segmentation enables users to upgrade or replace only the probe component rather than the entire inspection unit, significantly reducing upgrade time and cost while maintaining proper system integration through the standardized interface design
Data Source
AI summary
A handset for inspecting a target object with a sensor in an inspection module is disclosed. The handset includes a housing having a grip portion adapted to be held by a person, the housing adapted to selectively mechanically engage with the inspection module, a handset interface on the housing adapted to exchange signals with the inspection module, a handset processor, a user input interface accessible to the person gripping the grip portion and adapted to provide a control signal to the handset processor, and a user output interface responsive to the handset processor to display the data transmitted by the handset processor about the target object.