Movable Probe System for Crack Profile Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electric potential change probes are limited in their ability to measure crack depths as they require fixed leads that must be tack-welded to the surface, making it impossible to move the probes for further measurements. This restricts the ability to generate a crack profile rather than measuring at a single point.
Innovation Solution
A movable probe system with sense leads that can be placed on the surface of an object and moved to multiple positions, allowing for the detection of changes in electric potential and the formation of a crack profile. The system includes a mount with precision drilled holes for accurate placement and a tensioning mechanism to maintain contact with the object surface.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional EPD probes use fixed tack-welded leads, then measurement reliability is improved, but measurement versatility and crack profiling capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, fixed-lead EPD probe into a dynamic system where leads can be moved between multiple measurement locations. The probe assembly includes a movable probe head with leads that can be repositioned along the crack, enabling sequential measurements at different points while maintaining reliable electrical contact through the tensioning mechanism and contact members.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is segmented into a reusable base unit and a movable probe head with separable leads. This segmentation allows the leads to be independently positioned at different locations along the crack while the base unit remains stationary, enabling crack profiling through multiple discrete measurements that are later combined.
2Measurement precision
If fixed leads are used for EPD measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but productivity and inspection efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The probe assembly is pre-configured with contact members and tensioning mechanisms that ensure proper lead positioning and electrical contact before measurement begins. The mount includes pre-positioned contact members that automatically engage with the object surface, eliminating the need for manual lead placement and ensuring consistent measurement conditions across multiple locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables rapid repositioning of the probe head to multiple measurement locations along the crack. The movable leads can be quickly moved between positions and the tensioning mechanism maintains optimal contact pressure at each location, allowing multiple precise measurements to be taken efficiently without sacrificing measurement quality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If movable leads are implemented, then adaptability and crack profiling capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe assembly serves multiple functions: it provides electrical contact through contact members, maintains lead tension through the tensioning mechanism, positions leads accurately through the mount structure, and enables movement to multiple locations. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single integrated probe head, reducing the need for separate systems and minimizing overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mount structure acts as an intermediary between the probe head and the object surface, providing a standardized interface for lead positioning and electrical contact. The contact members serve as intermediaries that transfer electrical signals from the leads to the object, while the tensioning mechanism intermediates between the leads and the probe head to maintain proper contact pressure.
4Loss of information
If multiple measurement positions are used for crack profiling, then measurement completeness is improved, but measurement time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The probe system enables continuous measurement along the crack by allowing the leads to be moved sequentially from one measurement position to the next without removing or reconfiguring the probe assembly. The tensioning mechanism continuously maintains proper contact pressure throughout the measurement process, and the mount provides continuous positional reference, enabling uninterrupted data collection across multiple locations.
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 accurate and repeatable measurement of crack profiles, including interior cracks, without the need for fixed mechanical connections. This allows for comprehensive crack inspection and integration with other techniques like ultrasonic inspections.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor electrically connected to the plurality of sense leads and configured to detect a change in electric potential
Implementation Method 2
passing a current through the object
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an apparatus and method for crack measurement, including the steps of placing a plurality of sense leads on a surface of an object, passing a current through the object, sensing a change in electric potential in the interior of the object, and forming a crack profile of the interior of the object based on the sensed change in electric potential.